As a young girl growing up from Ghana in West Africa, I was made to believe the role of a woman is to be in the kitchen and to be submissive to whom she marries in future. But I Ama Abebrese (Ghanaian Name) had a different perspective about what I want to be in future, I lived close to what you will call an African park ( gravels as grass and the barefoot as authentic football boots) I usually sneak to watch as the guys play football, I became so obsessed and fantasied how the game was played and the theory of how individuals have to synergies to score a goal to achieve the goal of winning, I decided I wanted to be a footballer against all odds, it was then seen as a taboo for a lady to be on the field let alone play football.
As odd as it was I envisioned myself as a professional footballer in future though it seemed so impossible, considering the factors such as tradition, social and gender suppression from the place am coming from . Ridiculed a lot by peers. I got inspired when it was announced that women football is now officially part of the FIFA football games, finally the light at the end of the tunnel.
I was so lucky to be part of the schools first girls team, where I can say I started playing football with the spirit of professionalism, it didn't take long for my physical education teacher to realize the potential in me, I was quickly transferred from the village to the city to attend Bonde's soccer academy where I had professional football trainers.
I once stood at the far post after a training session and watched the field and then I realized my dream was gradually becoming a reality.
I just realized my dreams when I was called to represent my country at the national women team, I wept through the night casting my mind to when I first decided I would become a football player, the social and physiological stress I have to endure and finally after playing for smaller clubs my hard work and dedication with passion has landed me here, a national player.
Will end by saying its really good to dream big and work towards it, it doesn't matter where you come from what your skin color is and what your gender is, just be passionate about it and take a first bold step toward your dream.If I was able to make it you too can definitely achieve greater heights.
The game brings us together not matter where and whom you are, we shout, jump and embracing each other when a goal is scored
We are one people with equal destiny, our dreams and passions move us, we just need the motivation and encouragement to take the first step into the path of success and dream attainment.
