THE Zambian football fraternity is in deep mourning following the death of former Copper Queens captain Deborah Shamaoma, a pioneering figure whose influence is woven into the fabric of women’s football in Zambia. Shamaoma was a foundational pillar in the early development of the women’s national team, then known as Shepolopolo, and her legacy remains inseparable from the rise and recognition of the women’s game in Zambia. Widely respected as a leader and role model, she played a critical role at a time when women’s football was still fighting for visibility and acceptance. Shamaoma made her senior national team debut in 2001 and quickly assumed a pivotal leadership role, taking over the captaincy from Anne Namukanga. The transition marked a...