The Pakistan youth netball team, composed entirely of players based in the UK, is gearing up for its first major championship. This team is not just aiming for success on the court; they also want to inspire more British Asian and Muslim girls to join the sport.
Last year, many of these young athletes faced disappointment when they couldn’t compete in the Asian Netball Championship in Bangalore due to visa delays caused by the Indian government. Their team, the Cosmopolitan Roses, was unable to participate, leaving the players disheartened.
However, the girls have since been authorized by Pakistan Netball to form a new team to compete in the upcoming Asian Youth Netball Championship, which will be held from June 27 to July 4 in Jeonju, South Korea. This opportunity is particularly meaningful for them. Sadia Hussain, co-founder of the Pakistan Netball Academy UK, expressed pride in the moment, emphasizing the importance of representing their heritage.
Sadia recognizes that there are challenges to encouraging young girls from Asian and Muslim backgrounds to take up netball. Concerns about appropriate clothing and family expectations can deter participation. The Pakistan Netball Academy, which she helped establish two years ago, aims to support these girls by providing guidance and encouragement.
This time around, the team is fortunate to avoid visa issues, which has allowed them to focus on training. Team captain Sumayya Safdar shared her feelings about missing last year’s games, saying it has fueled their determination to excel this time.
Their coach, Amanda Newton, a former England captain, is bringing her wealth of experience to the team. Amanda has won numerous titles and medals, and she is excited about the commitment shown by the players, who come from various parts of the UK, including London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Scotland. The team trains together every few weeks, but their dedication is evident in their individual practice at home and with local clubs.
As the championship approaches, the girls are not only looking to compete but also to create a sense of community and pride among young athletes who share similar backgrounds. The tournament is a chance for them to shine and hopefully inspire others to join the sport they love.