Sultana Salihee

I was 8 years old when I started playing football with my friends, before then starting to play more when I went to secondary school. They had a school team that I joined with one of my friends because her dad was a coach. I told my Mom that I was starting my training with my friend’s dad, and I worked hard. After a year of playing, I trialled with the national team and they told me that they liked the way I play football and they wanted me to play for them.

My Mom and Dad always supported me in football and my Dad always put in extra effort to take me in the park to practice. He wanted to play soccer with me and I am so proud of that.

When I think about the bitter days that happened in Afghanistan, I find it hard to forget them, but every time I think back to them, it makes me stronger. I never imagined that in the midst of war, I would face the sound of bullets, screams, terror, lack of money, fear of life, despair, and people like those of the Taliban. I often think of the people from my country, and wish that they be freed from the misery and violence against women, have hope returned to them. I am really grateful for the help that Australia gave us, to help us feel safe. I am forever grateful.

I played for the Sky United team for a year. They are really good team and I feel so happy that I had the chance to play with them and I feel they’re like my family, but now I have moved and I am waiting to find another team in my home area.