Hussein Shareef, popularly known as “Only,” has become one of the most celebrated names in Maldivian futsal. Born in L. Atoll’s Gan Island, his journey from a football-loving schoolboy to the captain of some of the country’s top futsal teams is one of passion, resilience, and leadership.
The Early Days: A Love for Football
Growing up in L. Atoll, Only’s passion for football blossomed during his school days. With futsal still a rarity on the islands, he would gather with friends to play football wherever they could. After finishing school, an invitation from a friend brought him to Malé, where he first encountered futsal.
Initially, Only stayed in an accommodation block for football players. Although he gave football a shot, it failed to ignite his interest. It wasn’t until 2014, when he participated in his first futsal tournament, that he found his true calling. That singular experience changed the course of his life.
Challenges and Turning Points
Life in Malé was not without its challenges. Financial constraints meant living under difficult conditions. After a stint in Malé, Only returned to L. Gan at his mother’s request, resuming a modest life while working on the island. It was during this period that a friend, Rippe, encouraged him to see futsal as more than just a pastime—it could be a career. With this newfound perspective, Only dedicated himself to improving his skills and taking the sport seriously.
Rippe played a pivotal role, first inviting Only to play a match in Malé. From there, Only’s rise in the futsal scene began in earnest.
A Star Player and a Natural Leader
Over the years, Only has become synonymous with Maldivian futsal. He has captained top teams like HDC and Fenaka in the prestigious Club Maldives Cup and led Gan’s team in the Golden Futsal Tournament, winning multiple accolades, including the coveted “King of the Tournament” trophy.
Known for his leadership qualities, Only commands respect both on and off the field. “Even if Only doesn’t wear the captain’s band, he exercises leadership,” remarked a teammate. This ability to inspire and guide his team has been instrumental in his success. According to Only, trust among teammates is the key to victory.
Hometown Pride and Island Legacy
Only’s success is not just his own—it’s a source of pride for L. Gan and the entire L. Atoll. Whenever he brings home a win, the celebrations ripple through the community. Even when his team doesn’t secure the top spot, the islanders rally around him, eager to learn from the experience. This deep connection with his roots drives Only to continue excelling.
Challenges in Maldivian Futsal
Despite his achievements, Only is vocal about the challenges facing futsal in the Maldives. A lack of dedicated indoor futsal pitches hampers the development of teams and players. Practicing on turf fields, while adhering to international rules, creates limitations.
“When you watch the world’s best futsal teams, their precision and smooth gameplay come from playing on proper futsal pitches. The difference is clear,” Only said. He believes that investing in better facilities would significantly enhance the national team’s performance on the international stage.
Balancing Work and Passion
For Only, futsal is a labor of love, but it’s not his full-time job. Like many athletes in the Maldives, he balances an eight-hour workday with his sporting commitments. Currently sidelined by an injury, Only acknowledges the financial challenges athletes face without additional sources of income.
Still, futsal provides a decent supplementary income, and Only credits his workplace for accommodating his dual commitments. “Without their cooperation, managing both work and futsal would be impossible,” he said.
Family and Friends: The Pillars of Support
Throughout his journey, Only has relied on the unwavering support of his family. His parents, younger sibling, and wife have been his biggest cheerleaders. Friends like Rippe and Baji also played vital roles in advancing his career, offering guidance and encouragement at crucial moments.
Looking Ahead: Ambitions for National Success
Having represented the Maldives in Asian tournament qualifiers, Only’s ultimate goal is to bring regional-level success to the national futsal team. His vision for the future is clear: he wants to see the Maldives recognized as a force to be reckoned with in futsal.
A Legacy in the Making
Hussein “Only” Shareef’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and leadership. From humble beginnings to becoming a national futsal icon, his journey inspires not just athletes but anyone striving to overcome challenges and pursue their passion. As he continues to break barriers, Only’s legacy is sure to leave a lasting impact on Maldivian futsal and beyond.