Meet Rawdha Almansoori, Emirati athlete, who has taken part in all six Dubai Games

Dubai: Rawdha Almansoori, an Emirati woman, is a picture of perseverance and resilience.

While she hasn’t been able to fulfil her childhood dream of representing the UAE national football, she has transitioned that desire into becoming a FIFA-certified referee. Working as a manager at the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), she has also participated in all editions of the Dubai Games.

“I am participating for the sixth year. I have always had an amazing time competing with talented athletes,” said Rawdha, who is among a small group of Emirati women to have featured in all editions of the Games, which are underway at Dubai Festival City.

“The first time we heard about the Games, we formed a team and participated. We finished second in our maiden attempt.”

Despite not ever reaching first place, she returns stronger at each edition of the Games.

“I hope we reach the podium next year,” said Rawdha, as DEWA failed to make it to Sunday’s finals.

“Sometimes you win, and sometimes you lose, but that’s life. We will come back stronger.”

Her journey in sports began as a child playing football, basketball, running, and more.

“I started playing football when I was about five years old. I used to break light bulbs and window panes at home with my brothers. Once, I asked my sister to be a goalkeeper and ended up breaking her finger. I have a lot of great memories,” said Rawdha, who likes to wear the number 7 striker jersey and went on to represent her school and university in local and regional competitions.

“But I couldn’t represent the national team. That’s why I shifted to becoming a football referee. I got FIFA accreditation in January. I hope to represent the UAE soon.”

Over the years, she has led a disciplined life while balancing her work and training regimen to become a football referee.

“I work from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. Then, I go home, eat, and head to training for an hour and a half,” she said, adding that she keeps participating in competitions and staying fit.

“When you want something, when you want to reach a goal, you will do whatever it takes to achieve it. You need to be dedicated and disciplined. Never give up on your dreams. We fall seven times, but we get up eight. So keep fighting, keep working, and keep smashing your goals. Don’t give up,” Rawdha said, and underlined that her team at DEWA keeps her motivated.

“My team helps me showcase my abilities and give my best. This is why I am participating for the sixth year, and hope to be here for the next one as well.”