Women Folk

Unbelievably, CMUq has a woman's soccer team! Woman's sports in general are so underground here that it was difficult to find- but I was determined so here I am, playing soccer for the girls team. Last week was our first game and we headed up against Georgetown, a neighboring university at Education City. There is only one sports facility so all the teams play at the same location and share the same locker room. When I showed up to collect my uniform and change, the locker room was already packed with girls. Abayas and scarfs were all over the place collecting in silky black pools on every available counter. Just like in the states girls crowded around the mirrors, pulling their normally covered hair into tight ponytails, excitedly trading stories from class earlier in the day. The girls came from schools all over, some even still in highschool and the atmosphere was exactly the same as it was at home. Girls even gave the same "this bitch is going down" sideways glances. We played our match indoors so that girls could play uncovered and no male spectators were allowed in. I think I expected some amount of reservation or girlieness as during the day the girls trot around in 4 inch heels and more makeup than Ru Paul, but there wasn't a hint of that here. The instant they shed the abaya it was game on and I totally loved it. For the record, we creamed Georgetown, but that wasn't ultimately the most exciting experience. I think I've been incredibly lucky here to be drawn into this reclusive but vibrant community which very very few (and only even women) get to see. I have to say, I've played a lot of soccer in my life, but playing in the company of just women is a totally different experience. I think I even enjoy more than playing in mixed company. For these girls to have to go so far out of their way to play, the event is given a gravity or at least appears to have a genuineness, like a "I do this 100% for my self." The actual game itself wasn't very good although it certainly was aggressive, I think mostly because there is a lack of coaching or even any real practice time, but the cultural experience was phenominal and I'm already looking forward to playing again next week. I hear we're playing VCU which has a reputation as the lesbian team. Lesbian? Really? Here? I am intrigued. If the subject of women sports in conservative cultures is something you'd like to read more about, I'd recommend this article regarding the Iranian men vs. women game. If you thought lesbians were controversial over here, wait 'till you check that one out.