Shayal: Women Can Play Football

Shayal Sindhika has never regretted playing football.

The 26-year-old, originally from Vunivau outside Labasa, teaches at Tabia Sanatan Dharm Primary School in Labasa.

The only daughter in the family and being the younger of two siblings, Shayal started her football career in 2009.

“While I was student at Sigatoka Methodist College, I joined the women’s team and played for Nadroga until 2011,” she said.

“Then from 2012 to 2014 I played for Nadi.”

She said after graduating from Fiji National University with a Bachelor in Education Primary, she moved to Labasa and joined

the Labasa Women’s team in 2015.

“’I’m a utility player. I can play right back,midfield and striker,” she said.

Shayal Sindhika.

“My brother Sumeet Krishan and cousin Dhiren Chandra inspired me to play football.

“I loved the sport since I was in kindergarten.”

“My parents have always supported by dream to play football and I am always thankful to them.

“I have been criticised in many ways from people saying that football isn’t for girls and that career is more important than playing football.

“When I was young my female cousins and grandmother used to play football with me at home but they all took a step back because of stereotypes back then.”

Shayal said she is doing what is right both being a teacher and a football player.

“I want to inspire all women to live their lives to the fullest. Don’t regret being a female and choosing to play the sport. There are many women in the world who have proved critics wrong by working and being a footballer,” she added.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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