Faith - Diversity and Belonging

Religion and belief play an integral part in the lives of many people. Acknowledging and accepting the importance of religion and philosophical beliefs (or the absence of beliefs) is therefore a key element of providing an inclusive environment. To assist our members and those involved with netball, we have created the ‘Religion and Belief in Netball Guide' which can be accessed by clicking the image below. This covers the major religions within England and how we can best ensure we are considerate of people’s needs.

Background (Details Anonymised)

A parent from the group approached the community club to discuss how they might collaborate on a plan to encourage more girls from within their faith to take up netball and progress through a pre-existing pathway. Recognising that participation at this level wouldn’t happen overnight, the Netball Development Officer suggested they first needed to establish netball as a regular, accessible part of the community, coached, delivered, and supported by trained volunteers from within the community. From there, they could begin to develop a pathway that served both participation and performance ambitions.

Setting up the Programme

Working alongside the Manager at the community club, and two newly recruited community volunteers, they launched an expression of interest for girls. The response was incredible with 45 families registering their interest and 38 girls signed up for our first eight-week pilot programme. To keep costs manageable during the pilot, one court was booked for one hour each week. After three weeks, it became clear that Year 7/8 numbers were dropping while the Year 9s remained highly engaged. Based on feedback, they refined the model, continuing with a focused Year 9 (soon-to-be Year 10) group while planning to expand to a dedicated Year 7/8 session.

Growth and Development

The Year 9 squad developed quickly. Friendly fixtures were arranged to gain valuable match-play experience which both players and parents loved. Soon after, the team joined the local community junior league. To support sustainability, the NDO worked with the club to secure £10,000 from the Sport England Movement Fund, which enabled two community volunteers to complete their Level 2 Coaching Qualifications and establish an affiliated England Netball club with its own committee. The programme has since expanded to include sessions for Year 7 - 10 and a ladies session.

Impact

The impact has been immediate and inspiring. The local community has shown immense pride in the programme, and one Year 10 player has already earned a place on the representative long squad, with three others identified as strong candidates for the next trials in 2026. Parents have praised the sense of belonging and confidence the sessions have created, with many expressing gratitude that their daughters finally have a netball club that truly understands and accommodates their culture and religious commitments.

Muslimah Sports Association - February 2023
This report aims to update you on some of the motivations and barriers experienced by Muslim females in sport. It but also provoke thought, action, and further collaboration in helping ethnically diverse females to go, not only beyond the challenges that face them, but thrive despite of them.