The Player Spotlight is a feature by the FUFA Communications Department that offers bold and in-depth conversations with female footballers. It explores mindset, motivation, defining moments and personal reflections. The segment reveals the person behind the player.
In this week’s feature, seasoned goalkeeper and Kampala Queens FC shot stopper Namakula Gloria, also known as Zaza, takes us behind the scenes of her football journey so far.
FUFA COMM: First, why were you nicknamed Zaza and how did you develop passion for football in your early days?
NAMAKULA: I got my nickname Zaza after the legendary former player Simone Zaza. Growing up in a family of boys sparked my passion for the game at an early age. When I joined Senior One at Royal College, I immediately joined the school team which later formed Ajax Queens and competed in league football. I initially played as a midfielder, but my desire to save penalties led me to switch to goalkeeping.
FUFA COMM: You started playing in the league at a young age. How do you assess the level of competition then and now?
NAMAKULA: Back then, competition was mainly fierce in school football, but over time we have seen a significant rise in the number of talented players, teams and leagues. Every league game now feels like a final. Competition is much higher compared to past years.
FUFA COMM: Who has been your biggest inspiration in your football journey so far?
NAMAKULA: My biggest inspirations have been my father and Coach Charles Kayemba Lwanga. They have constantly pushed me to work hard and instilled in me an unwavering belief in my abilities.
FUFA COMM: You have guided your club to back-to-back clean sheets this season. What does that mean to you, and what are your personal targets this season?
NAMAKULA: It means a lot to me and gives me great morale. As a goalkeeper, there is no greater pride than keeping a clean sheet, but I owe it all to my amazing teammates. We work together as a cohesive unit. My ultimate target this season is to win the Golden Glove award.
FUFA COMM: Is there a particular save or moment that stands out in your career so far?
NAMAKULA: Yes, the penalty saves I made against Hasifa Nassuna and Sandra Nabweteme while playing for Ajax Queens in the inaugural FUFA Women’s Cup in 2017 still stand out. I saved eight penalties out of ten in the shoot-out, although we eventually lost the game 2–1 to Kawempe Muslim.
FUFA COMM: Who would you say is the most challenging striker you have faced in your career?
NAMAKULA: Hasifa Nassuna. She has the skill, speed and accuracy to score from anywhere on the pitch.
FUFA COMM: How do you assess your team’s chances of defending the title, considering no team has done it before?
NAMAKULA: Our chances are extremely high, around 90 percent. We have a solid team and the players are highly determined. I am confident we can do it.
FUFA COMM: What is your pre-game ritual or anything that helps you perform at your best?
NAMAKULA: Prayer is my secret weapon. It boosts my focus and gives me the confidence to take on any opponent.
FUFA COMM: What message do you have for young goalkeepers who look up to you?
NAMAKULA: To all young goalkeepers out there, keep working hard, believe in yourself, maintain discipline, stay focused and trust that your time will come. For instance, I went through three seasons without playing, but I never gave up. I kept training and now I am glad to be performing well.
FUFA COMM: Lastly, what does a typical rest day look like for you, and if you were not playing football, which other sport would you choose?
NAMAKULA: In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, following football and playing Ludo. If I were not a footballer, I would have loved to be a netball player or a 100-metre athlete.
