By Michael Uugwanga
Elizabeth Iipinge is proving that football coaching is not reserved for men.
As the only female coach in the Tobias Hainyeko Soccer League, Iipinge is breaking barriers while using football as a tool to uplift young people in Windhoek’s informal settlements.
She coaches K-Star Football Club, which currently sits 11th out of 19 teams in the league with 29 points. Iipinge has led the side since 2020 and is also the club’s owner.
K-Star operates under the Kilimanjaro 3315 Development Foundation, a non-governmental organisation established to empower young people through sport, particularly football and netball. Growing up in an informal settlement inspired Iipinge to use sport to create opportunities for young people and bring positive change to her community.
“Growing up in an informal settlement, and understanding the severe challenges of poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. As a foundation, I took it upon ourselves to improve these conditions and make our environment safer and more livable,” Iipinge said.
“I believe that empowering youth can bring lasting change not just in our local community, but across Namibia and even globally. When young people unite with purpose and support, they can become powerful. We offer a range of programs, with sports particularly soccer and netball,” she added.
Female coaches remain rare in Namibian men’s football, but Iipinge is among a growing number challenging stereotypes. Others include Mamie Kasaona, founder of Kasaona Football Academy, who has also coached Blue Waters in the Namibia Premiership.
Although Iipinge never played football herself, she has embraced the challenge of coaching a men’s team and says respect is earned through leadership rather than gender.
“Being in charge of a male team as a woman can sometimes be challenging, but I believe leadership is not about gender. It is about respect, professionalism, and consistency. I stay strong by setting clear expectations, treating everyone fairly, and focusing on the team’s goals. I earn respect through my work ethic, communication, and commitment to the players and the club.”
According to Iipinge challenges may arise, but she handles them with confidence, patience and professionalism, while always maintaining mutual respect with the players.
She maintains that the sport club is really keeping the kids busy and also it brings entertainment to the community with the tournaments and friendly games.
While she has already established herself on the sidelines, Iipinge plans to strengthen her credentials by obtaining coaching qualifications through the Namibia Football Association.
“No, I do not but I’m planning to obtain one with the Namibia Football Association in the near future.
For Iipinge, football is more than winning matches. It is about giving young people purpose, keeping them away from social ills and creating a stronger community through the power of sport.
