The popularity of netball in Dubai is reaching new heights, and one team helping is the Dubai Sharks Netball—a club building a supportive, inclusive community.

Founded as an extension of The Dubai Sharks Rugby Club, Sharks Netball has quickly become a force in Dubai’s netball scene.

Launched three years ago with the encouragement of the Shark’s executive team, Craig Stevens and Charlie Taylor, the Sharks Netball began with two senior and one junior team. Today, the club has expanded to an impressive seven senior teams and ten junior netball teams, showcasing the rapid growth and love for netball across Dubai.

“Charlie reached out about expanding into netball, and the rest is history,” shares Hollie Lambert, who oversees the senior side of the club.

Caroline Brewer, managing the junior netball, joined after her daughters attended the club’s trials. Bringing her passion and background in netball from New Zealand, Brewer’s role evolved from a team manager to an instrumental figure driving the growth of the junior teams.

‘Club culture’

The Dubai Sharks Netball offers teams for all skill levels, from competitive squads to social teams.

“What makes Sharks special is the club culture,” says Lambert. This inclusive atmosphere has allowed the club to field teams across every division, from premiership to social leagues.

For the junior teams, the emphasis extends beyond competition to player development.

Brewer explains, “We want all players, no matter their ability, to receive quality coaching and develop a love for the game.”

This season, Sharks Netball introduced a Mini Netball program for Year 2 students, focusing on teaching fundamental skills to girls as young as six.

“It’s all about making it fun while teaching them the basics,” Brewer says.

Sharks youth netball program is designed to nurture talent from a young age, creating a pathway for players to progress into junior and eventually senior teams. This season, the club celebrated the achievement of a young player transitioning from youth competition to the ladies’ league—a milestone underscoring their focus on long-term player development.

‘Need to be cautious’

The rapid expansion of the netball teams at the Sharks has also brought challenges, with high demand for spots on both junior and senior teams.

“We have waiting lists for both juniors and seniors. While we want to offer netball for all, we also need to be cautious not to over-expand and lose the special culture we’ve built.”

Lambert echoes this sentiment, stressing the importance of sustainable growth to preserve the club’s welcoming environment and high standards.

Both junior and senior training sessions radiate enthusiasm, with players eager to improve and support one another.

“The girls are excited, engaged, and they love playing the game,” Brewer says, while Lambert adds that the senior teams are “disciplined and incredibly supportive.” Many of the senior teams are self-coached, fostering an environment of mutual respect and responsibility.

‘Far beyond the court’

The Dubai Sharks Netball journey parallels the growth of netball throughout the UAE. The sport has gained strong backing from local organisations, including figures like Susanne Skelding, who has been instrumental in advancing netball in the region.

“The growth of netball here has been incredible,” says Lambert, recognising the wider support network helping the sport reach new levels.

Brewer highlights the broader life skills netball imparts:

“Playing a team sport like netball teaches girls confidence, communication, and teamwork—skills that benefit them far beyond the court.”

Through clubs like The Dubai Sharks, young netball players in the UAE are not only developing athletically but also gaining tools to navigate various aspects of life.

As the Sharks Netball side of the club continues into its third season, they remain committed to steady, intentional growth. Both Lambert and Brewer are excited to watch the players progress and to expand opportunities without compromising their supportive community. With programs like Mini Netball and a dedication to player development, The Sharks is creating a pathway for players of all ages and abilities.