Katima Mulilo-born Candy Namataa Kulatau has carved an impressive path in Namibian sports, rising from a young football enthusiast to a leading figure in women’s football and refereeing.
Speaking about her journey, Kulatau shared insights into her career and the challenges she has faced.
“I handle regional affairs as a regional convenor for athletics, NSSU, and as the Regional Chairperson for the Zambezi Women’s Football League,” she explained.
Despite her many responsibilities, refereeing has been her true passion.
“Of all the responsibilities, I had chosen to referee as my favourite path.”
Her love for sports started early.
“As I was growing up, I was mostly involved in men’s sports. I played football from primary level. Athletics was my second sport as I was good in the sprints and field events such as LJ, HJ, SP and discus. I represented the region in various sports codes including netball where I played Goal Defender and Goal Shooter,” she said.
Her decision to pursue refereeing was driven by her admiration for the role.
“I loved how fit and active the match officials were and how they enforced the laws of the game. I dreamed of holding a whistle one day.”
In 2008, she took her first steps into coaching, eventually managing the national U17 team.
“By the year 2014, I diverted to refereeing and became one of the first three female referees in the country,” she noted.
Her ascent in refereeing culminated in her current role as a FIFA/NFA physical and technical instructor/assessor.
Kulatau credits mentors like Jackie Shipanga and Dambe Chika for encouraging her to push beyond her limits.
“Jackie Shipanga always told me that I can do more than just be a player. This was during college times when I used to play as a soccer player for inter-college games and TISAN games. I was awarded an opportunity in my final year for national tryouts and really this was so amazing and I felt that yes! Things are falling into place. Had been the team captain all my college years and an inspiration to my fellow women,” she said.
Despite her achievements, the journey has not been without its challenges.
Balancing a professional career with her sports commitments has been tough.
“Being a full-time professional and part-time sports person really needs time and energy. At times it was tough to choose between the two and one had to weigh the options. There was one workshop I missed due to work-related commitments. All I could do was tell myself that as long as it was meant for me it would always find its way back to me. Mostly if I’m stuck between a cliff and hard rock I would rather take a deep breath, think things through and decide with a clean mind,” she admitted.
Kulatau’s dedication has paid off in memorable moments, such as winning Match Official of the Year at the Skorpion Zinc Tournament.
“It really felt great, and I was beginning to smile at my hard work,” she said.
Reflecting on her role as a leader, she said many people are looking up to her.
This she said gives her strength to keep going.
“As a leader, we should lead by example and allow followers to make decisions as they affect them the most. This makes a leader’s work easier. During the formation of women’s football teams in the region, I had to face more challenges as it’s in the culture of our people not to allow a girl child to participate in football since it’s viewed as a male sport. With the help of broadcasting, social media and supportive people we managed to get the league played. I’m really proud of this as I feel I always try to not disappoint those looking up to me,” she said.
As a trailblazer in Namibian women’s football, Kulatau remains focused on her mission.
Her advice to aspiring athletes is simple.
“Always remember why they started. Giving up or quitting is not an option in sports. It’s not about how hard you hit but how hard you get hit and never stay down,” she said. – Windhoek Observer Sport
