Houston Shine FC
Our club’s name reflects our mission: to shine as an example of unity, hard work, and joy—on and off the pitch. In Afghanistan we wore red and black, the colors of “blood” and “war” in the Afghan flag. Today we wear blue and white, the colors of the sky, symbolizing hope and new beginnings. We compete in the Houston Women’s Soccer Association, where fellow players have welcomed and encouraged us on our journey. We’re proud to be in America and part of the Houston community.
Our Story
We arrived in Houston in 2023 after fleeing the Taliban. Back home we played for the Afghan Football Federation—some of us on the women’s national or youth national teams, others on regional squads. When the Taliban targeted female athletes, we knew we had to leave. After two years in Albania, we resettled in Houston and, in 2025, formed our first U.S. team. Our roster now blends former Afghan footballers, alumnae of the Afghan Women’s National Basketball Team, and new teammates we’ve met since coming to America.
The Next Generation
Several of us coach 12- to 14-year-old girls at the YMCA. By sharing the game we love, we create a safe space where girls—whether from Afghanistan or anywhere else—can build confidence, friendships, and a sense of belonging.
Goals
We came to the United States as refugees, without our families and before we could attend college. Soccer is helping us pursue new dreams: to become nurses, midwives, computer programmers, dentists, and coaches. We aim to earn our degrees, build professional careers, and champion opportunities for other women.
In the Media
Danielle Lerner, Houston Chronicle, May 21, 2025