To celebrate South Asian Heritage Month 2024, we are interviewing several referees, coaches and players from South Asian backgrounds across the grassroots game in West Riding.

Up next is Ikra Ali, currently of Route 1 Rovers Women and formerly of Phoenix Ladies, Guiseley Vixens and Bradford City Women.

Tell us about how and why you got involved in playing football?

I started playing from a young age on the streets and then as I got older and exposed to more opportunities, I signed up for the University team and have been playing 11 a-side ever since.

What do you enjoy about playing football?

The social element, seeing people from all walks of life coming together to do the same thing. Brings a sense of unity and togetherness.

What is your best memory of playing?

Winning the cup final with Bradford City.

What do you want to achieve in playing football?

I would love to win the league with my current team.

What are the biggest obstacles you have faced in playing football?

My religion and beliefs, I feel it’s always put me on the back foot and I’ve had to try harder to stand out for my ability and not who I am or what I look like.

Who’s had the biggest influence in your playing career and why?

My biggest influence was my grandma, solely because of the support and encouragement she provided. It’s out of the norm for an Asian woman to play football but for my grandma to take an interest and ask me how football is going motivated me to continue as I knew I had her backing.

What advice would you give to people wishing to get involved in playing football?

I would advise anyone who wants to get involved in football to just do it. You can do whatever you believe you can do, regardless of the stigma that may be attached to women in football. Women’s football itself has a come a long way but the number of ethnic minority women in football has also increased. You don’t need to look a certain way to play football, it’s for everyone to be a part of. Take that step and do what you love, for yourself.

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