In a world where time often dictates the pace of our passions, Stella Williams continues to write her own story, defying age, rewriting limits, and shining brighter with every stride on the pitch.
At 47, while many of her former teammates have hung up their boots, Williams remains at the heart of Beauties FC’s midfield: commanding play, breaking lines, and inspiring both peers and opponents alike.
Her most recent feat is competing in the CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, where Beauties faced off against some of the continent’s most formidable teams.
Though the Namibian side lost 3–0 to Zesco Ndola Girls of Zambia (Williams missed this match) and suffered a heavy 7–0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns, they also secured a memorable 3–0 victory over Ntopwa FC of Malawi.
Through every match, Williams stood tall, seasoned, unfazed, and still giving the game everything she had. “It was the experience of a lifetime, getting to reach that stage with the same players I continue to mentor,” she said.
Her journey began humbly at AI Steenkamp Primary School, where she first excelled in netball and athletics before street football stole her heart. Playing barefoot with boys, using plastic bags for balls and stones for goalposts, Williams unknowingly laid the foundation for one of the most illustrious football careers in Namibia’s history.
From those dusty street corners to national glory, Williams’ path was paved by undeniable talent. She represented clubs like Civics, Okahandja Beauties, and Poly Babes (now Nust Babes), while also showcasing her versatility in netball for Orlando Pirates. But it was on the football pitch where her star truly rose and made memories.
A complete forward in her prime, Williams was nothing short of a goal machine. From her hat-trick in Ramblers’ 5–0 rout of City Sport in 2005, to her legendary five-goal masterclass in the 2009 NFA Women’s Championship final, she didn’t just play the game, she dominated it.
By 2008, she had already netted 18 goals to top the league, and year after year, her boots brought home titles: 13 league championships in total, over three decades with Beauties FC.
Off the field, her legacy is just as strong
Former Unam Bokkies player Martha Ankambo reflected on their battles, “Williams was one of the best players to ever come out of Namibia. A complete player, both a midfielder and a forward. Playing against her kept me up at night, strategising how to stop her. She was simply exceptional.”
Erica ‘Paloma’ Ashipala of the then Poly Babes painted a picture of grace under pressure: “She was skillful, deadly on the ball, and outshone everyone around her. Crowds would chant ‘Stella stay Star’ and that’s exactly what she did. If you tried to fight her, she’d dribble you instead. She played with heart, discipline, and joy. The young ones have so much to learn from her.”
Former teammate Leandri Lucas remembered Williams not just for her play, but her character: “She always gave her best and remained obedient, tolerant, and respectful. She would give her last to help someone else. Her age never held her back, she remains influential to this day. I am so proud of what she’s achieved.”
Stacy Naris, another decorated player, summed it up with admiration: “You are unstoppable. I am proud and honoured to have shared the field with you, as both a teammate and opponent.”
Representing Namibia’s Brave Gladiators, Williams also left her mark on the international stage, including a memorable brace in a 2–2 draw against Ghana in 2013
Today, as the oldest player in the Women’s Super League, Stella continues to lace up her boots, not for fame, but for the love of the game. When asked how long she’ll keep playing, she said she doesn’t know.
“The body is starting to get tired. I will see how far I can still push it. But I am not sure if I will return this upcoming season. I have tried to mentor as many players as possible. Women’s football is in good hands. It’s now been taken seriously. I will just advise the players to dedicate their time to the game. Image is important and if you take the game seriously, it will take care of you one day,” she concluded.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na