A football coach and advocate for refugees found herself sidelined from a match because of her attire, specifically tracksuit bottoms, which she insists are integral to her religious values.
Iqra Ismail, the former captain of Somalia’s national team in 2019 and the founder of Hilltop FC, encountered this hiccup when she joined the grassroots squad United Dragons FC, based in Regent’s Park.
This young woman, just 24 and hailing from West London, was primed to make her debut on Sunday against an East London rival.
“I prepped, ready, and raring to go. But at halftime, the referee nixed my participation unless I donned shorts,” she recounted.
Iqra emphasized, “For nearly five years, I’ve donned these same tracksuit bottoms in matches—shorts never figured into the equation.”
Feeling dismayed, she said. “It took me aback—the ref’s hardline approach seemed excessive.”
But the team rallied around her. “I was visibly upset on the pitch, yet my teammates and manager had my back. We were all gutted.”
Iqra wondered aloud why the league “can’t compromise” on this matter.
CREDIT: Iqra Ismail
Having laced up her boots since age eight, Iqra has always equipped herself with a long-sleeve top, her team’s jersey, a sports hijab, and the reliable tracksuit bottoms, alongside essential kit like shin guards.
She noted, “Many women I know, who come from similar backgrounds, steer clear from these leagues. Capable though they are, the shorts rule deters them.”
It’s not the long sleeves at issue—it’s the tracksuit bottoms causing the fuss.
United Dragons FC, sitting within the Greater London Women’s Football League, seemingly flouts the Football Association’s nudge to be flexible on such matters. Officially, the FA’s rules restrict tracksuit bottoms to goalkeepers only.
Iqra recounted the FA’s guidance, saying, “They clearly stated that players wearing extra items for religious reasons deserve the green light to play.”
“Seeking a welcoming environment”
The Greater London Women’s Football League later reaffirmed its stance against tracksuit bottoms on the field.
In her role as a coach, Iqra tried to offer guidance to the league, aligning with the FA’s leniency recommendations, yet the league stuck to a particular regulation about the kit.
She expressed frustration over the rigidity: “For reasons unfathomable, they refuse to adapt.”
On minor discrepancies like tape or undershirt colors—referees overlook those.
“This feels like one step forward, two steps back,” she lamented.
CREDIT: Iqra Ismail
Iqra has long championed a safe haven for Muslim women in sports.
For instance, she mentioned, “We hosted an alcohol-free women-only FA Cup final viewing, fostering comfort and inclusivity.”
The setback of seeing hard-fought progress unravel due to such incidents has been dispiriting.
Determined, Iqra aims to return to play, collaborating with the FA and league for rule revisions, eyeing broader changes with the International Football Association Board.
“Your faith and comfort have to prevail,” she asserted.
“Some argue you’re just a player on the pitch, but to me, you bring your culture and identity with you. Yes, it’s a personal stand, but it transcends individual struggle,” she emphasized.
CREDIT: Iqra Ismail
A steadfast voice for refugees, she advocates safe playing spaces.
An FA representative remarked, “We’re aware of the situation and are liaising with the Middlesex FA to expedite a resolution.
We informed county FAs and officials earlier this year that accommodating women’s religious attire is essential. We remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming football landscape throughout England.”
The FA confirmed their direct communication with Iqra, offering assurance and support as they work towards resolving this issue.
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
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