The Player Spotlight is a feature by the FUFA Communications Department that offers bold and in-depth conversation 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, St Noa Girls-Zana promising attacking midfielder Patricia Nayiga reacts to her debut campaign in the Finance Trust Bank FUFA Women Super League.
FUFA COMM: Can you start by taking us back to the beginning and tell us how your football journey started?
PATRICIA: I started my serious football career at Highness Soccer Academy, where I developed the foundation of my game. It was from there that I was spotted by Wakiso Hills FC and featured in the 2020/21 season of FUFA Women Elite League at FUFA TC, Njeru, although I played a few minutes but gained experience. The following season, I returned a more confident player, earning more opportunities and responsibility on the pitch. Midway through last season, I made a move to St Noa Girls-Zana FC, I was part of the squad that earned promotion to the super league.
FUFA COMM: This is your first season in the super league, how would you describe your journey into the league so far?
PATRICIA: It has been an amazing experience, St Noa is a very competitive team, and it’s a privilege to start every game and always try to help the team to get positive results.
FUFA COMM: How has the coaching staff helped you grow and settle into the team?
PATRICIA: The coaching staff have shown great belief and trust in us, enabling us to execute what we work on in training. They also provide solutions to the challenges we encounter. It is a journey we are proud of so far.
FUFA COMM: You have already scored four goals in your debut campaign. What does it mean to you at this stage of your career?
PATRICIA: It’s not a bad start and something I’m proud of, but my focus is on improving game by game. I want to create more opportunities for my teammates.
FUFA COMM: What has been the biggest difference between the FUFA Women Super league and other competitions you have played before?
PATRICIA: The difference is significant, in the super league, any mistake is punished. There is a high level of unpredictability, you can face several formations within a single match and the competition is intense.
FUFA COMM: As a new player to the league, what challenges have tested you the most this season?
PATRICIA: I think we lacked a bit of experience. Our squad is still gaining experience and we are facing more experienced opponents. That cost us in some games despite strong performances.
FUFA COMM: How did you react to the departure of your former head coach, Tonny Mawejje?
PATRICIA: We didn’t expect it, and it was psychologically challenging. It affected us greatly in the match against She Maroons FC, where we ended up losing 2-0.
FUFA COMM: Who has played the biggest role in supporting you on and off the pitch in your career so far?
PATRICIA: They are quite many involved, but Director Shaka Wilber gave me the first opportunity to showcase my talent.
FUFA COMM: Lastly, what are your targets as the season progresses, and what should fans expect from you?
PATRICIA: As I mentioned earlier, my focus is on continuous improvement. I would like to thank our fans for standing by us in all circumstances. We will remain focused and keep getting better.
