Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: How Soccer Took Me From the U.S. to Iran to Advance Women's Rights
By: Kat Khosrowyar
Athlete, Trailblazer, Resilient, Tenacious
As the first American-Iranian to help start women’s soccer in Iran 17 years ago, it was not an easy journey. Culturally, women’s sports were not encouraged, and many believed it went against traditional values. However, I saw the potential for women’s soccer to provide opportunities for young girls and women to discover their potential and build confidence. Despite the challenges and cultural barriers, we persevered, and today, women’s soccer has grown significantly in Iran.
One of the most significant challenges we faced was recruiting players from rural cities. These young women had never played soccer before and lacked the resources and support to pursue a career in sports. Through my work, we were able to provide them with necessary resources, training and support, giving them a chance to explore their passion for the sport and to create a new career path for themselves while also supporting their families.
I did all I could to help them succeed, and I am proud to say that many of them have gone on to become some of the most talented soccer players in the country. Their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication, as well as the potential that women’s soccer holds for young girls and women in Iran.
While my work has been recognized with a nomination for Best Coach in Asia (2019), I remain humbled by the success of my players and the growth of women’s soccer in Iran. Our journey has not been easy, but it has been worth it, and I am excited to see what the future holds for women’s soccer in Iran and beyond.
Trailblazing: As a woman in sports advocate in Iran and in the Middle East, I helped break new ground and pushed boundaries in a culture where women’s sports are still not always embraced or supported. I advocated for policy changes, and promoted the benefits of women’s sports in a culture where these concepts were unfamiliar and met with resistance.
Resilient: Iranian female soccer players faced significant challenges and setbacks. However resilience and determination to keep pushing forward despite obstacles was a powerful force for change.
Tenacious: I faced resistance and skepticism however the tenacity and perseverance of my colleagues and players in the face of these challenges was the driving force for change.
