Not every woman can achieve success in Kyrgyzstan's sports industry, especially in the predominantly male-dominated field of coaching. However, there are women who, thanks to their professionalism, discipline, and perseverance, have overcome these obstacles and found their place. One of them is Nurzat Ismailova, head coach of the Osh State University women's volleyball team.

This year marks her 25th anniversary of fruitful work in the field of sports and education. Under her leadership, the University women's club has won the national championship three times and the Kyrgyzstan Volleyball Federation President's Cup four times. In this interview, we will talk about Nurzat Ismailova's sporting career, her coaching philosophy, and her belief in young people.

— Nurzat, how are you? Tell us a little about yourself.

— I was born on January 14, 1985, in the village of Sogondu, Alay District, Osh Region. In 2001, I graduated from Sarban Zhaanbaev Secondary School and enrolled in the Faculty of Physical Education at Osh Humanitarian and Pedagogical Institute, where I received a degree in physical education.

In 2004, I became a member of the Osh regional volleyball team. From 2007 to 2009, I worked as a lecturer at the Faculty of Physical Education of the Osh Technological University. Since 2011, I have been working as a lecturer at the inter-faculty Department of Physical Education of the Pedagogical and Physical Faculty of Osh State University, and since then I have been the head coach of the women's volleyball team of Osh Technological University.

— You are a coach who has found your place in sports today. How did this journey begin?

— This journey began in my childhood, at school in the village of Sogondou. My interest in sports awakened early. I was agile and active from a young age. At first, I did track and field, but in 8th grade, I became seriously interested in volleyball. Since then, sports have been an integral part of my life.

— What childhood event inspired you to choose your current profession?

— My physical education teacher at school, Tolkun, had a huge influence on me. Her human qualities, self-confidence, and professionalism were a wonderful example for us. That's when I had a dream: “I can be the same kind of teacher, the same kind of coach.” Today, I am making that dream come true.

— Volleyball has become more than just a sport for you; it's your profession. Was it an easy choice to make?

— Of course, it's not easy. Volleyball is a sport that requires a lot of discipline and constant work. But I chose this path consciously. In 2004, playing for the regional team, I became deeply aware of the responsibility and competition in sports. This experience prepared me for coaching.

— How would you rate the work of female coaches in Kyrgyzstan?

— It's a big responsibility. The world of sports is dominated by men. That's why you have to prove yourself not with words, but with hard work and results. Over time, your work speaks for itself.

— What is the most difficult thing about working with women?

— Girls have a delicate psychology. Sometimes life circumstances affect their game. As a coach, I am obliged not only to teach tactics, but also to listen to and understand them.

— Is there an unchanging principle for you in leading a team to victory?

— Yes, there are. Discipline and mutual respect. In team sports, the team's goal must take precedence over personal interests. Where there is no discipline, there can be no lasting victory.

— What kind of support does the university provide to the athletes of the University women's club?

— The university provides us with comprehensive support. Most importantly, it offers contract payment benefits for students who join the team, scholarships, and assistance with dormitory accommodation, which is a great incentive for athletes. This support allows students to combine their studies and sports, strengthening them both socially and morally. As a result, athletes can fully focus on training and preparing for competitions without being distracted by minor life issues. I can say that such systematic support from the university directly contributes to the sustainable growth of the team and the achievement of high results.

— The titles of “Master of Sports” and “Excellence in Physical Education and Sports” that you have earned are the result of your hard work. What heights are you striving for in the future?

— Every title I receive comes with responsibility. My next goal is to receive the title of “Honored Coach.” I currently meet the necessary standards.

— Being a mother, coach, and teacher are three different worlds. How do you manage to combine these roles?

— Sometimes I feel guilty as a mother. I can't devote enough time to my children. But without my husband's support, it would be impossible for me to bear this burden. My family's understanding is my greatest victory.

— How do your children feel about sports? Do you influence their choices or let them do what they want?

— No, they made their own choice. We are a sporting family, but my children chose soccer over volleyball. Now both of my sons play in the main squad of the Osh city team in their age groups, under 15 and under 17. My eldest son, Damirlan, is a candidate for the title of Master of Sports in soccer.
  

— What advice would you give to young female athletes in line with modern requirements?

— I would say that it is important not only to focus on sports, but also to remember to get an education. Health, knowledge, and self-care are the keys to future success.

— What do you think about the future of Kyrgyz volleyball?

— There have been positive trends in recent years. Our girls have started participating in Asian Cups and are becoming champions. This gives us great hope.

Nurzat Ismailova's life story proves that success in sports is not a coincidence, but the result of hard work and discipline. For her, coaching is about shaping the character of young people, teaching them responsibility, and instilling self-confidence in them.

Nurzat, who juggles three important roles—wife, mother, and teacher—has shown through her work that women have a place in sports. The team she leads is the result of hard work and a contribution to the future of Kyrgyz volleyball.

Victory does not come overnight. It begins with discipline, self-confidence, and hard work.

Interviewed by Zinagul Nuralieva.