Dylan Bettencourt
With women’s football on the rise across the globe, Salama Miruho Djasmine is breaking down the barriers of the men’s side of the game.
Djasmine became the first female manager to train a male football team in the Democratic Republic of Congo when she took charge of Daring Club Virunga.
Football has always been a part of Djasmine’s life.
Her father was a referee and her five brothers all enjoyed playing football. She was also an aspiring footballer before deciding to study to become a professional manager.
“With the training I received in Kinshasa and attaining a Federal A Licence, I came to Daring Club Virunga for an internship,” the coach told Reuters.
“I came for a training camp. But when I met the former coaches it was clear that things were not going well. Even though I was an intern, I took over. I have been in charge of the team since then.”
She said being a female – who face significantly greater barriers to entry into the sport than men – has never held back her growth in the sport.
“There have been no challenges that I can think of,” she said.
“I feel very good. I am comfortable,” she said.
Virunga footballer Melly Mongolare said working with Djasmine is an honour.
“I think it is the first team which is trained by a female coach. It is a big pleasure to be training with her,” the player said.
Djasmine said they are training hard and will do all they can to represent the province of North Kivu next season.
“I have good players because they understand everything. I am capable and my players are ready to represent the province and play in the upcoming competition,” she said.
Image source: @Reuters
