In an exclusive interview with Sports247, Dannaz Ladies Coach Dianna Asak Johnson shared the inspiring journey of how she led the team from the grassroots of Nigerian football to the professional league, the NWFL.
Read Also: Equatorial Guinea Captain Emilio Nsue Lopez Announces Retirement From International Football
Johnson’s strategy has been unique and bold. Instead of strengthening the team with experienced players during the league break, she chose to stick with the grassroots players who had never been exposed to any league before. “We actually want to give the girls, the ladies the opportunity.
The professionals that you are talking about are the people that have made it. They started somewhere. People actually gave them the opportunity to showcase themselves,” Johnson explained.
These players have been with the team right from the nationwide time to the championship. Johnson believes that bringing in experienced players at this stage would stifle the talent in their players. “We believe that they have something they have to showcase to the world. If they don’t have the playing time, how would they do this?” she asked.
The bond within the team is strong, and they work with three Ds – discipline, dedication, and determination. Johnson motivates her players to seize their moment, enjoy themselves, and make a name for themselves. “People that are out there, they started just like you. You have the opportunity. We’ll give you the opportunity just for you to make use of it. And they’ve been maximizing that opportunity,” she said.
Johnson also acknowledged the support of their big boss, Mr. Danny, who has always been there for the coaches and the players. “This is already the determination we give to them. People that you are looking out there, they started just like you. Take this opportunity and prove to the world that you are good. And from here, it should just be your next level in your career,” she added.
The players, most of whom are U-16, U-17, have proven to the world that age and experience are not the only determinants of success in the game. “They’ve done that. They’ve proven to the world that it’s not how long you’ve been in the game, it’s not how old you are… I know that we’ve proven something to the world that it’s not just the older player. Those people that have the experience, give the younger ones the opportunity and they will maximize it,” Johnson concluded.
This inspiring journey of Dannaz Ladies from the grassroots to the NWFL under the leadership of Coach Dianna Asak Johnson is a testament to the power of opportunity, discipline, dedication, and determination. It serves as a reminder that with the right guidance and opportunities, young talents can shine brightly in the professional leagues.
