By: Awa Conteh
Welcome to this week’s episode of Gambian Trailblazers, where we celebrate the remarkable individuals making significant impacts in their respective fields. Today, we are honored to feature Sainey Mboob, a pioneering force in women’s football in The Gambia.
In a country where football is deeply cherished yet primarily male-dominated, Sainey has emerged as a formidable leader, becoming the first female football administrator to work in men’s football with Darnish AC Horsens.
From her early days as a standout player to her former role as the Women’s Football Coordinator at the Gambia Football Federation (GFF), Sainey’s journey is synonymous with resilience, passion, and a fierce commitment to the sport. Her story is about breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of female athletes.
Sainey M’boge’s journey began at Abuko Islamic Scientific Institute, where her formal education commenced with a focus on Arabic studies. Despite the school’s primary emphasis on Arabic, it also offered English subjects, quickly capturing Sainey’s interest and enthusiasm.
Sainey’s love affair with football began in her childhood when opportunities for girls in the sport were scarce. Growing up, she was often the only girl playing with boys in her neighborhood, showcasing an early talent and a determination that set her apart. This passion for the game saw her rise through the ranks, eventually earning a spot on the national team.
While still at Abuko Islamic Institute, Sainey’s football journey took a significant turn during a tournament initiated by sports veterans such as Biri Biri and Alhagie Babou Sowe.
The tournament sought female footballers, and a childhood friend recommended Sainey and her twin sister for the event. Scouts were sent, and both sisters were selected to play for the Under-16 team representing The Gambia at the Norway Cup.
‘My journey in sports started when I saw my late brother play football. He was a star and scored a hat trick on a particular day. I was the only girl spectator on the grounds, and I was moved by the celebrations that followed every goal he scored. This was what inspired me. I resolved then and there that I would also become a star just like him’, Mrs M’boge told The Alkamba Times.
At just 16 years old, Sainey represented The Gambia at the 2012 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Azerbaijan. As the youngest player and vice-captain of the team, she displayed exceptional skill and leadership, scoring a memorable goal against France. This achievement highlighted her talent and underscored the potential of Gambian women’s football on the international stage.
Following an impressive playing career, Sainey transitioned to football administration, which would significantly impact women’s football in The Gambia. In August 2015, she succeeded Choro Mbenga as the Women’s Football Coordinator at the GFF. This role involved coordinating and implementing activities related to women’s football, including managing national teams and promoting the sport at all levels.
Sainey’s tenure has been marked by substantial progress in developing and recognizing women’s football. Her dedication to the sport has fostered growth, creating numerous opportunities for young female players nationwide.
Under Sainey’s leadership, the GFF has launched several initiatives to develop women’s football. One of the most notable projects is implementing the FIFA “Live Your Goals” campaign, which inspires more girls to participate in football. Through this campaign, Sainey has organized technical courses and girls’ festivals, providing young players with the skills and motivation to pursue the sport.
“Several training and coaching certificates impacted my journey by giving me self-esteem and helping me realize my worth. The purpose of education is to change lives and to change what should not be. I have become persistent, productive, and focused at whatever I do,” Sainey said.
Our trailblazer has also been instrumental in various coaching and education programs, including the FIFA coaching course for coaches in women’s football and the Nationwide Coach Education Programme. These initiatives have helped build a robust coaching network and ensured that female players receive quality training from a young age.
Sainey’s efforts extend to grassroots development. She has organized festivals and jamborees that distribute books, balls, and other resources to young players, promoting the sport and emphasizing the importance of education and community involvement.
In June 2019, Sainey achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman to be selected as Chef de Mission for the Gambia National Olympic Committee. In this role, she was responsible for the preparation and management of Gambian athletes and coaches and led the delegation at the inaugural African Beach Games held in Sal, Cape Verde.
This achievement proved Sainey’s leadership and ability to break barriers in a male-dominated field. As Chef de Mission, she ensured that Gambian athletes were well-prepared and supported, setting a precedent for future female leaders in sports administration.
Beyond her administrative duties, Sainey has embraced the role of an ambassador for women’s football. Since 2014, as the FIFA Live Your Goals Ambassador, she has tirelessly promoted the sport, attracting more girls and women to get involved. Her visibility and advocacy have helped change perceptions, encouraging greater acceptance of women’s football in The Gambia.
‘We needed broken cultural barriers so every girl in The Gambia can play football, which I have always been working towards. It is refreshing to see more girls play today’, Mrs Mboge stated.
Sainey’s commitment to women’s empowerment extends beyond the football field. She has been actively involved in various women’s empowerment projects, including symposiums and workshops to give women the skills and confidence to succeed in multiple domains.
Her work with the Women in Sport Commission of the Gambia National Olympic Committee further underscores her dedication to promoting gender equality in sports.
Sainey’s contributions to women’s football have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades and recognition for her efforts. In 2022, she participated in the FIFA Women in Leadership Programme, underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and growth as a leader. She has also been part of significant events such as the Discover Football Conference in Berlin (2017), the Africa Women’s Cup of Nations in Ghana (2018), and the Women’s Football Convention at the FIFA Women’s World Cup (2019).
Her career highlights include being a spokesperson for women’s football in The Gambia and participating in various international competitions and conferences. These experiences have equipped Sainey with the knowledge and network to advance women’s football in her home country.
In a groundbreaking achievement earlier this year, Sainey M’boge became the first Gambian woman to be appointed by a European football club, as she took on the role of Player Care Officer for Danish club AC Horsens’ men’s first team. Sainey provides critical management and psychological support to players, ensuring their well-being during their stay with the club.
Her appointment marks a significant milestone in her illustrious career and for Gambian representation in international football, showcasing her exceptional skills and dedication to the sport on a global stage.
Sainey’s vision for the future of women’s football in The Gambia is one of continued growth and development. She envisions a time when The Gambia will not only participate in international competitions but also compete at the highest levels. Her goal is to see more girls and women involved in all aspects of the sport, from playing to coaching to administration.
Sainey is focused on building a solid foundation for women’s football to achieve this vision. This includes developing youth programs, enhancing coaching education, and creating opportunities for female players to showcase their talents. She is also committed to fostering a supportive community that values and celebrates women’s football achievements.
‘Being one of the few women in a male-dominated field like football comes with its challenges, which is where a supportive community of women players and sports administrators comes in handy for young girls aiming to become footballers’, she shared.
Sainey M’boge’s journey reminds us of the power of determination, passion, and resilience. From her early days as a talented young player to her current role as a trailblazer in football administration, Sainey has consistently broken barriers and paved the way for future generations of female athletes. Her contributions to women’s football in The Gambia have been transformative, and her legacy will undoubtedly inspire countless young girls to pursue their dreams on and off the football field.
As Sainey continues to lead and advocate for women’s football, her impact will be felt in The Gambia and across the continent.
Her story is a powerful reminder that dedication and perseverance can help one achieve greatness and make a lasting difference in the world.
