The first ever South-Asian woman to get a level two coaching certificate from the Football Association and now coaching at the Leicester City Football Club’s Centre of Excellence, Annie has come a long way from when “kicking the ball was a form of escapism as a child who was suffering eczema.” The fact that Zaidi- and this is a name easily envisaged on the back of an England jersey (we’re just saying) - has booted certain social stereotypes is undeniably a feat, but what is more impressive is her vigour as an individual: “the pitch allows a space free of labels”, she continued, “your abilities are the primary focus. I have experienced a lot of sexism and racism in the industry but that’s just made me more determined.” Finding herself in several intimidating set-ups, such as being the only manager without a Y chromosome out of 400 in a Sunday League team, Zaidi knows what she is talking about. The Black and Asians Coaches Associations also seemed to be in agreement when giving her a Chair in the organisation. Honest and energetic, Annie shows us what freedom is in 2015: not being afraid to move forward and only ever be yourself.
What draws you to Football?
Well, I couldn’t play as much as I wanted to when I was growing up and that has only increased my drive. If you take my ball away, you take my dream away. There may have been Islamophobia and discrimination going on outside the pitch, but I have always felt safe when I’m on it. I feel my most natural self when I’m playing. If I’m not out there twice a day, it feels as if something is wrong. From the coaching side of it, I think it’s the educational element that’s exciting. I enjoy every part of football, from analysing the match, to planning and delivery.
Were you always interested in the sport?
Growing up with brothers, I was always an active child. I’d be playing football every chance I got. When I was younger, sport was also the best medication for my eczema. It was a release mechanism. It wasn’t about looks and was about just playing the game. Even three years ago, when football had to be a part time thing because of the difficult economic landscape, I cherished the moments when I could play the games: I came alive. The only thing I was looking forward to were the coaching sessions. Another thing that helped was the late Bobby Robson’s autobiography: Farewell But Not Goodbye. Reading it was an inspiration.
There has been the issue of women’s confidence in the news. Do you have a comment on that?
Yes, I would agree with that actually. It is definitely more a gender orientated than based on ethnicity. Something like 95% of the football industry, for example, is run from the top down by men. It’s easy to get overwhelmed but what you’ve got to remember is that, regardless of gender, it’s about whether you can create the same environment. Doing this is what counts. We can show men that women are just as capable. For me personally, failure or intimidation is not an option! I just think about how I can thrive.
On that note, what’s been your most memorable moment?
When I was invited to QPR for the whole day! It’s an elite place and I felt humbled to be there. I was honoured to be in the company of legends such as director Les Ferdinand and manager Chris Ramsey. When I went in there, I thought I was coaching the U15s boys’ team but it turned out I was working with U21s. I was really nervous because when you love doing something so much, you can almost get stage fright, but I got through it and it was one of the best sessions. That’s really my dream: to be able to coach full time in a professional men’s game. Currently I’m undertaking the journey to get my UEFA B license, the equivalent of a part-time MA it seems, so let’s see where that takes me.
Do you like to watch sports on TV?
Yes, that’s my downtime! I have Sky Sports just for the football. I’ll watch game after game. I also run the treadmill every single morning.
Name an inspiring role model?
There have been a few: of course Les Ferdinand and Chris Ramsey at QPR and also Wallace Hermitt. He has been my mentor and my guardian angel.
Finally what’s your advice to other women faring in unconventional, sporty jobs?
Don’t let other people’s barriers become your barriers. People have told me ‘oh, you’re Asian, you’re Muslim- how is it going to work?’ I just said ‘watch me, I’m going to do it.”
