The rhythmic bounce of a volleyball, the sharp commands of a coach and the court buzzing with dynamic energy - this is the world that Muna has navigated for over two decades. More than just a player or a coach, she is a catalyst for change in Maldivian Volleyball. Her story, woven with unwavering dedication, stretches far beyond the boundaries of the court.

Muna, known commonly as Munna in the Maldivian volleyball community, has been a prominent figure in the sport since 1997. Her journey is a rich tapestry of commitment, evolving from a passionate player to an inspiring coach, shaping not just her path but influencing the sport’s growth in the Maldives.

From the outset, Muna was drawn to volleyball after watching her brother play. “What captivates me most about volleyball is its dynamic nature,” Muna explained. “It’s a sport that blends athleticism, strategy and teamwork seamlessly. The sense of fellowship on the court, the synchronized movements and the collective pursuit of victory are what make it truly  exhilarating.”

Recalling the early days of women’s volleyball when she first stepped onto the court, Muna reminisced about her beginnings in the ‘Youth Development Program’ under Dr. Muneez’s guidance from the Volleyball Association of Maldives. This program marked her entry into the sport, where she quickly became an integral part of the junior and senior women’s team. “We had competitive inter-house and inter school tournaments when I joined the national squad,” Muna noted. Her narrative is peppered with the challenges of the time - limited opportunities for international play and training, the reliance on sponsorships and the personal contributions of players just to compete abroad. Yet, these challenges did not deter her; instead, they steeled her resolve.

“During that period, we were fortunate enough to have highly committed coaches,” Muna shared, her respect for her mentors evident in her tone. “I would like to highlight the assistance of my Coach Nadheem, Coach Muneez and Coach Fallo in building my volleyball skills and career. Their consistent support at various stages of my journey, both on and off the court has been invaluable. I am extremely grateful to these three individuals for being my mentors.” They imparted more than just technical skills; they instilled values of discipline, leadership and teamwork - qualities Muna has carried with her throughout her life. This initial phase laid the groundwork for the profound evolution in her career, eventually steering her towards a new role behind the scenes.

Now, as a coach herself, Muna’s approach is holistic. Her understanding of the game encompasses not only the physical and strategic demands, but also the power of volleyball to create a community and instill a sense of belonging. “It’s about the collective effort that leads to success,” she asserted, highlighting the sport’s inherently collaborative nature.

As the conversation shifted to her personal challenges, Muna’s candor revealed the depth of her resilience. “Yes, there were moments in my journey where the challenges seemed overwhelming,” she admitted. Confronted with her younger son’s diagnosis of autism and her own health issues, the thought of giving up loomed. But it was the love of the game that kept her anchored. “I decided to start coaching because I love the game so much that I didn’t want to stay out of it,” she explained, her commitment unwavering even in the face of personal trials.

This journey led her to an impactful involvement outside sports, where she has been actively running a therapy center for special needs children. “I believe in the power of sports not only as a source of physical well-being, but also as a tool for building connections and fostering positive change in communities,” she shared, highlighting her commitment to social welfare even beyond the volleyball court.

Building on her personal experience, Muna highlighted the unique challenges faced by women in sports. “One notable aspect is the historical underrepresentation of women in leadership roles within the sport’s administration” she pointed out, identifying a barrier she’s determined to overcome. This determination is further reflected in her role as a coach. “Being a coach in a male-dominated field has always been challenging,” she acknowledged. Yet, it’s clear she’s not one to back down. Her experiences have fortified her, teaching her the true meaning of leadership, resilience and the indomitable human spirit.

Her vision includes not just leading her team to victory but also pioneering a coaching staff composed entirely of women, a bold move towards gender equality in sports leadership. Muna aims to take this further by inspiring the next generation, demonstrating that with the right guidance and support, female athletes and coaches can ascend to new heights.

Attributing much of her own success to the support from her family, coaches and friends, Muna acknowledges the crucial role of her support network in navigating the highs and lows of her career. Their encouragement and belief in her abilities have been the bedrock of her achievements. 

Her message to young sportswomen in the Maldives is rooted with wisdom and encouragement drawn from her own life’s tapestry. “Embrace the fact that as a woman you are born with the incredible ability to multitask.” Muna encourages them to set priorities without compromising their goals, urging them to dream big and to remain resilient in the face of challenges.

Looking ahead, Muna’s aspirations in volleyball remain ambitious. “My future plans are driven by a profound passion for not only excelling in the game, but also contributing to its growth and inclusivity,” she shared. She envisions leading the women’s national team to new heights, all while fostering a team environment rooted in empowerment and inclusivity.

Through her story, Muna stands as a beacon for women in sports - a reminder that with dedication, the right support, and an unwavering belief in oneself, it is possible to overcome any challenge and make meaningful contributions both on and off the court. Her journey from a player to a coach and community leader exemplifies the diverse roles a woman can excel in, breaking the conventional barriers that often limit women’s participation and leadership in sports.

Follow her journey: @munnss