Shaita Angels’ journey is a fascinating tale of the remaking and endurance of women’s football in Liberia. It started as a kickball team and has become champions at the Liberia Football Association’s (LFA) Orange Cup, emphasizing the increasing popularity and potential of women’s football in this region.

The Birth of Shaita Angels

In 2017, the installation of artificial turf at the George Weah Technical Center in Careysburg marked a turning point for the Shaita Angels. Originally a kickball team, they were forced to transition to football to continue using the facility, which was upgraded with support from FIFA.

The Transition to Football

Women’s football is still developing in Liberia, with kickball traditionally being more popular. However, the Shaita Angels embraced the challenge. “We built the turf for football,” explained G. Nelson Meanyeah, LFA’s stadium manager. This decision catalyzed their transformation and laid the foundation for their future success.

Building a Team and Overcoming Challenges

To support their new venture, the team needed football equipment and technical staff. With assistance from Henry Browne, who was then the technical director for LFA, as well as local coaches Rusfus Kolo and Edwin Knuckles, the Shaita Angels rapidly mobilized for registration into the women’s lower league during the 2019–20 season. Despite their earlier setback due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they remained determined to succeed.

Achievements and Setbacks

In their first ever full competitive season, Shaita Angels earned promotion to the top-flight league. The team ended up second in the 2020–2021 women’s second division, thus sealing its place in the 2021–22 women’s top flight. However, their maiden campaign at the top tier proved to be challenging, leading to their relegation. Vice President Benita Urey viewed this setback as an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen the team.

The Role of Benita Urey

Benita Urey, a businesswoman and influencer from Careysburg, became the team’s vice president without prior football experience. Her involvement brought new energy and resources to the club. “It was a way of giving back to the community and empowering women through sport,” Urey said. Despite a difficult first season, her leadership proved pivotal in the team’s resurgence.

The Road to the Top Flight

By the end of the 2022–23 season, the Shaita Angels had clinched the women’s lower tier championship, winning 18 matches, drawing three, and losing only one of 22 league games. Key players like striker Erica Parsons, goalkeeper Albertha Pratt, and midfielder Malusu Blama received top honors, showcasing the team’s talent and determination.

Recent Successes and Future Goals

Returning to the top league, Shaita Angels made strategic signings, including Nigerian defenders and Ghanaian midfielder Mary Nunoo. Under the leadership of new head coach Monroe Winn, the team finished second in the league and won its first Orange Cup title. Urey, now the club’s CEO and president, has set her sights on ending Determine Girls’ dominance in Liberian women’s football and bringing the CAF Women’s Champions League trophy to Liberia.

Conclusion

Shaita Angels’ story is one of resilience, transformation, and ambition. Their journey from a kickball team to football champions serves as an inspiration to many and highlights the growing potential of women’s football in Liberia.