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, Lady Doves FC midfielder Sumaya Nsisi, who recently graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Nkumba University, opens up about her football and education journey.
FUFA COMM: Congratulations on your graduation. How does it feel to finally achieve this milestone?
SUMAYA: I am overwhelmed with gratitude to have achieved this milestone. It has been a challenging three-year journey but I am thankful for the experience. I thank the Almighty Allah, our Director Mr Julius Mugisha and everyone who has supported me throughout my university journey. I encourage all female footballers to prioritise education.
FUFA COMM: What made you fall in love with the game, and when did you first start playing football? Which position did you play and has it changed over time?
SUMAYA: I grew up with great passion for football but I got my first chance to play during my Primary Seven vacation. That experience sparked a journey that took me to Highway SS Sironko for school football, and later to Lady Doves FC. Crested Cranes player Fazila Ikwaput’s story and achievements inspired me to start playing as well. Her name was well known in the eastern region at the time and it motivated me so much.
FUFA COMM: Can you share your most memorable moment from your football journey so far?
SUMAYA: My highlight so far was scoring in my first start for Lady Doves FC against Rines SS WFC last season, ending a long stretch of coming on as a substitute. Unfortunately, I got injured in the same game.
FUFA COMM: What is the best sporting advice you have ever received and from whom?
SUMAYA: Coach Emmanuel Boranapate of Nkumba University has been a game changer for me. He taught me to trust and believe in myself, learn from setbacks and stay focused. With his advice, I am confident I will reach my goals.
FUFA COMM: What are your goals on and off the pitch?
SUMAYA: My goal is to succeed and make an impact whenever I am given the chance to play. I will take it step by step and with hard work and determination, I will get there. Off the pitch, I have built a strong foundation with my degree in Business Administration. I am passionate about the business side of sport and I am determined to make a mark as a leading woman in sports business.
FUFA COMM: How do you think your team can turn around the current state of play?
SUMAYA: We have had a slow start but the coaches have been working closely with us, reviewing each game and guiding us on how to improve. We are learning from our mistakes and we are more determined than ever. The next game is a fresh start and we are going to start winning.
FUFA COMM: How do you keep yourself entertained on long bus trips to away matches?
SUMAYA: Our team has a good vibe but personally I usually watch movies or listen to my favourite music.
FUFA COMM: Lastly, if you could have dinner with two footballers, past or present, who would they be and why?
SUMAYA: Laughs… It would be Fazila Ikwaput and Riticia Naboosa because they have both played an important role in my career to date.
