Queen Manga: From Gladiators captain to referee trailblazer
Queen Manga has carved out a remarkable legacy in Namibian football, first as a tough-tackling defender and long-serving captain of the Brave Gladiators, and later as the country’s first female FIFA-accredited referee.
Manga, who was born in Khorixas, developed her love for football at a young age, often playing with her cousins instead of netball with her peers.
Her talent flourished at school level before she moved to Windhoek, where she joined Ramblers before moving to Poly Babes (now known as NUST Babes).
Between 2006 and 2012, she captained the Brave Gladiators, representing Namibia in regional Cosafa tournaments and against African heavyweights. Known for her physical style of play and strong leadership, Manga became one of the team’s respected figures.
Persistent knee injuries forced her into early retirement, but she soon found a new calling in refereeing. She started refereeing in 2012 and by 2014, she made history by earning a place on the FIFA referees panel, officiating in international matches and regional tournaments.
However, the mental strain of refereeing and later health challenges, including high blood pressure, led her to transition into a new role as Referee Instructor.
Manga continued her work in the NFA's referee department and now serves as a referee assessor, evaluating match officials and contributing to the development of refereeing standards in the country.
During the just concluded Hollywoodbets Cosafa Women’s Championship in Polokwane, South Africa, she acted as a referee instructor.
Reflecting on her journey from player to official, Manga encourages young woman to consider refereeing as a serious career path – proof that her impact on Namibian football continues well beyond the pitch.
