Delyar Gazi: Role model

Manchester United Soccer Schools (MUSS) enjoy a fine tradition of churning out special players.

At 17, Delyar Gazi is still learning the finer aspects of the game like many her age at MUSS, Dubai. But there is something special about her all right. Delyar is the only Emirati girl at the renowned youth academy. And like any special player, she is hoping to start a trend of her own, one that sees more of her countrywomen joining her on the pitch.

Born to an Emirati father and Iranian mother, the lively teenager has been crazy about the sport for a while now and says her religious beliefs never posed any problems thanks to her football-loving family.

The only challenge was playing with all the boys in the beginning. I was wondering whether they would accept me or what... Delyar Gazi

"My family are so open-minded so it was definitely not a problem," she told XPRESS. "Today there are so many opportunities for both men and women in Dubai, so you can do anything."

Her mother Pari added: "Fortunately her father is the kind of man who wants [the children] to experience everything. As long as it’s healthy, there are no boundaries. He’s more of a friend than a father. And today times are changing. The daughter of Shaikh Mohammad [Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai] competing at the Olympics is the best example."

Delyar did not have to worry about her playing in shorts raising any eyebrows, but there was an equally daunting task in store when she started four years ago. "The only challenge was playing with all the boys in the beginning. I was wondering whether they would accept me or what... But the coaches were just great. If it weren’t for them, I probably would have gone mental," she said.

Pari hasn’t forgotten that first day either. "I remember my heart was beating so fast. She was just 14 and the only girl among 30 boys. I was not sure if she felt comfortable. We even told her if she didn’t want to continue it was fine. But the coaches were all wonderful. It took a lot of courage from her side and she pulled through."

Delyar will not be entering a fourth season with MUSS, Dubai as she will be going to university this year. But the idea of being a pioneer for Emirati girls to cast aside their qualms and hit the field sounded very appealing.

"Definitely. I would love to be a role model to all Emirati girls. Not just to come forth and play sports but even other activities like dancing," she said.

Footie facts

• Name: Delyar Gazi
• Age: 17
• Nationality: Emirati
• Occupation: University student
• Likes besides football: Meeting friends and painting
• Favourite player: Ryan Giggs, though her mother insists it’s Cristiano Ronaldo
• Says she was really keen on playing at an academy after the Euro 2004 final between Portugal and Greece
• She is a Portugal fan