In an industry dominated by men, Oyeniyi Fatima Elizabeth stands out as a trailblazer. The Remo Stars fitness coach has broken barriers, transitioning from a referee to a certified coach. Her remarkable story is one of passion, dedication, and perseverance.
Speaking with journalists at the Ikenne Stadium, Ogun State, Oyeniyi Fatima shared her journey and transition from refereeing to coaching Remo Stars.
“I joined refereeing immediately after finishing my secondary school in 2005,” Fatima said. “I saw it then as a hobby. I started officiating as a league referee in 2011. I loved refereeing because it was both a hobby and a profession for the elites. In 2014, I was invited for the FIFA NA Course, which I attended, and again the following year.”
“I studied human kinetics at the University of Ibadan and practiced as an aerobic instructor because I love exercise,” she continued. “After my BSc, I went for my Master’s in Exercise physiology, qualifying me as a fitness coach. When I joined Remo Stars in 2021, I started working as their fitness trainer, although I wasn’t certified as a coach at the time. This year, I enrolled in a coaching course at the National Institute of Sports (NIS) and participated in the Women CAF C Licence Coaching Course in Abuja, which I completed this year. This qualified me to be a fitness coach for Remo Stars, and I’m happy doing it.”
“Being a coach at Remo Stars comes with many tasks,” Fatima acknowledged. “We have our ups and downs, but there’s always room for learning and development. I learn from my coaches, but the little challenges I face are from the players, and I’m coping.”
As a female coach in a male-dominated industry, Fatima faces unique challenges. “Sometimes they see me and wonder who this woman is, directing and controlling us,” she said. “I have to remain calm, but sometimes they get angry with me.”
Asked which role was more tasking between refereeing and coaching, Fatima replied, “The refereeing job is more tasking because of the fitness, but since I joined, I’ve never failed a fitness test.”
Regarding female referees’ performance in the Nigeria league, Fatima praised their efforts. “Yes, the female officials are doing their best, and the gap between men and women is narrowing. They’ve been brilliant; refereeing is becoming increasingly professional and interesting.”
