Moroka Swallows FC sports and conditioning coach Kasey Oliver is a rose amongst thorns. Kasey Oliver is a young female in a male-dominated industry, a woman who believes that passion will fuel your purpose and that being true to yourself in every situation is very important. It is hard to discredit a woman who works very hard especially when her work speaks for itself.
Kasey told Blazon Magazine that being a young female in a male-dominated industry has made people question and doubt her capability as a woman, but she never became despondent because she knew that they can not say no nor shut doors forever. “I am expected to be tough, I expected to the doubt, I expected the negativity, but this was my passion for as long as I can remember so I fought for it with prayers and my work ethic spoke for itself so it could never be ignored”, said Kasey.
What changes do you want to see especially as a woman in Sports?
Firstly as a woman, I want and need other women to believe in each other, especially since we need to work 10 × harder because of the challenges we face. Secondly, I would also plead for respect from men in the industry, they must respect our work and value what we offer. Blurring the line between a female coach and viewing us as good enough, I believe the opinion matters and we must be given the same freedom as a man.
Do you believe women should be treated fairly and given a fair chance?
Yes definitely, I believe whenever you give a woman a task she multiplies it. Once we’re given an opportunity we will give experience and results regardless. Women are capable of doing powerful things because we are powerful beings, it’s just that we are not given enough opportunities, especially in the sports industry.
What makes you unique?
What makes me unique is that I don’t know what it’s like to be average. I am raised by a very strong woman who conquers everything. The Bible says “the latter will be greater than the former “, with that being said I know what hardship is, but I was able to turn it into character-building. I know what rock bottom is but I managed to turn it into a solid foundation to rebuild myself. What makes me unique is my hunger to make an impact for people to say “because you believed in me I didn’t give up”.
“I know what hardship is but I was able to turn it into character building”
Ubuntu Cape town FC has been outlined as Kasey’s favourite team throughout her career because they show character on and off the Field, which fascinates Kasey. After all, she is also a very consistent person who strives for excellence.
Working for Moroka Swallows, what stands out the most?
When the chips are down they show up for each other, the senior players were always willing to teach and invest in the younger players. Their act of service and kindness is what makes them all capable of being great players.
Bidvest Wits Academy, Hellenic, Ubuntu Cape Town FC, Pimville Young Stars, and Moroka Swallows are the best highlights in my career thus far and these teams believed in me. Right now I’m just awaiting more memories and achievements.