Najma, AFC Leyton Team Manager

Being a female and visibly Muslim coach has been incredibly fulfilling

Most of my brothers growing up were huge football fans, and one of my older brothers had a playing journey and the passion and love he had for football inspired me.

He encouraged me to join a session and seeing that there were not many girls involved drove me to not only continue playing but become a coach that could encourage and inspire more girls to join.

I still play now recreationally with an amazing organisation that was started to create a space for female Muslims with a love and passion for football.

At AFC Leyton my favourite coaching memory was winning our first game this season, the progression my team has made has been fantastic to see! Each player has developed in their own right. I am incredibly proud of them and can’t wait to see what else they have to showcase.

My advice to any Muslim female thinking about football is simply get involved! …Your coaching journey will inspire the next generation and allow more girls to feel included.

What’s it like being a femal and a Muslim in football?

Being a female and visibly Muslim coach has been incredibly fulfilling, being in a space that’s not always open to all has allowed me create an environment that other young female Muslims can feel part of. It is really important to have representation in any field, growing up I never saw of anyone who looked like me so seeing the growth of Muslims in this space is so positive!

It has not always been a positive journey, but allowing others insight has helped inform those I’ve worked with of my religious practices.

For Ramadan, I would say to take it at your own pace, energy levels are different for everyone. Take breaks when needed and speak to your coach to make sure they know how to best support you.

I feel that AFC Leyton is really supportive of my religion.  We have a prayer room and I can take time out to break my fast and pray. This is really important as it shows how inclusive AFC Leyton is, it’s not something I’ve had to ask for, the club was already aware.

Do you have any advice for other muslim girls wanting to get into football or coaching?

My advice to any Muslim female thinking about football is simply get involved! There are endless opportunities now to show your talents, to enjoy football, meet new people, and be part of a team.

Your coaching journey will inspire the next generation and allow more girls to feel included.