Meet Matsushima Sumaya, a sensation rising among the ranks in the Bangladeshi Women’s Professional Football scene. Currently playing as a forward for the recently crowned champions, Bashundhara Kings. At just the age of 19, she has proven herself to be able to keep up with the best of the best.
Before starting her career as a professional footballer, she was making freestyle videos online that quickly caught everyone’s attention and drew avid admiration. Using social media platforms to showcase her skills, she captivated the viewers with her dazzling footwork, while dreaming of going pro one day. Her arsenal of skills knows no bounds – sharp step overs to the most wicked flicks, and most importantly, a marvellous head for the game. Her content was refreshing and the page quickly grew to a massive 16,000 follower base and is still growing.
With a blazing set of skills, Sumaya joined Bashundhara Kings for the 20-21 season of the WFL, playing a total of 4 games and scoring twice in the season. Her Facebook page is filled with videos of her training and running rigorous routines to bolster her skill set, not only to showcase her talent but to also inspire and educate her followers on how to become the best. From training sessions, to gym to warming up playing keepy uppys with the club captain; Sumaya provides a great insight into the life of a professional athlete in this country.
I OPENED THE PAGE FOR FUN, NOW I AM REGULARLY UPLOADING MY TRAINING SESSIONS, WORKOUTS, AND FREE STYLE VIDEOS SO THAT MY SUPPORTERS ARE ALWAYS UPDATED ABOUT ME
ICE Today was lucky enough to be able to snag an interview with her; here what we learned:
How did you end up playing football professionally?
Playing professional football has always been a dream for me, but I didn’t actually think I would get the opportunity so soon! All thanks goes to Bashundhara Kings for that. After joining the team, I realized quickly that professional football and amateur football are completely different, so I’m still learning the ropes. I am working hard every day so that In sha’Allah I can do my best in the future.
In 2020 you began playing forward for Bashundhara Kings, which have become the champion of the WFL (Women’s Football League) for the second year in a row! What has the experience been like for you?
Bashundhara Kings is one of the best teams in Bangladesh at the moment. Our team chemistry is excellent, which was the key to becoming a champion. As for me, it has been an incredible experience so far. Training sessions, team meetings, journeying in the team bus, my first goal, winning celebrations – I’ve enjoyed every bit of it.
Your verified page on Facebook has a fast growing fan base who love your freestyle videos. What inspired you to create it? Is it mostly for entertainment or is it a means for training and tips as well?
To be really honest, I opened my page just for fun and to upload some freestyle videos. Back then I did not think even a 100 people would watch my videos. I am really grateful to each and every one who supported me throughout this journey. Although I opened the page on a whim, now I am regularly uploading my training sessions, workouts, and free style videos for my followers and supporters.
You are quite an inspiration for those who aspire to play professionally – any word of advice to those facing obstacles or social stigma while trying to achieve their dreams?
I would like to say to them- don’t stop chasing your dreams, because dreams do come true. Willpower and hard work alone are enough to fulfil your dreams.
As a professional footballer, are there any goals you want to achieve in the coming years? Is there anything you want to do outside the sport?
All footballers have a dream to represent their country. My dream is to play for the Bangladesh national team. I know it will not be easy. I am working hard everyday to achieve that. I’m at the moment I just want to focus on football. And not thinking of anything other than that right now.
In truth, while Sumaya is a very special individual with a set of skills like no other, she now serves a higher purpose. She carries the hopes and dreams of every girl growing up, dreaming to become a professional athlete. Sumaya has demonstrated that through sheer will, commitment and an exuberant dedication to your craft, anything is possible. As she moves forward, closer and closer to her dream of one day playing in the famous red and green, she is also inspiring the next in line to go the distance through her televised matches and videos online, breaking norms and stereotypes along the way.
Be sure to keep an eye on this budding star!