Inspiring quotes replace names on Swedish women's football shirts

Stockholm (AFP) – The Swedish women’s football team have replaced their names on the backs of their blue and yellow jerseys with quotes they hope will inspire and motivate girls, they said Friday.

“Believe in your damn self,” reads the back of midfielder Lisa Dahlqvist’s jersey, a quote from Swedish singer Zara Larsson.

Star striker Lotta Schelin’s shirt reads: “Never look down on anyone, unless it’s to help her get up,” a tweet by Swedish feminist and politician Gudrun Schyman.

The Swedish squad won the silver medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The jerseys are being worn during the Algarve Cup currently underway in Portugal, to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8, Swedish Football Association spokesman Niklas Bodell said.

“The initiative is ultimately about, together with the national squad, displaying the power that exists in a strong sense of community, where football and the success of the Swedish women’s team are good examples,” he said.

“We also hope it can inspire people to stand up for each other and themselves, regardless of who you are or where you come from.”

The jerseys, which the team are sporting for practice sessions but not for matches, will also go on sale on March 8 as part of a campaign run together with kit provider Adidas aimed at promoting young women in sport.