
Netball Thrives in Dubai: Insights from Susanne Skelding of Active Netball
The netball community in Dubai is flourishing, thanks in large part to the dedicated efforts of individuals like Susanne Skelding, the driving force behind Active Netball: Dubai.
In a recent interview, Susanne shared valuable insights into the league structures, inclusivity, age ranges, and the involvement of the UAE Netball Federation in fostering the sport’s growth.
Building a Strong Netball Community
Susanne Skelding started Active Netball Dubai 13 years ago, aiming to create opportunities for netball enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. What began as a small venture has now evolved into a comprehensive program that caters to a diverse group of players, ranging from young children to adults. Skelding’s passion for the sport and commitment to developing a robust netball community have been instrumental in this growth.
Inclusive League Structures
Active Netball offers various league structures to accommodate different age groups and skill levels. The junior leagues are held on Sundays, ensuring that young players can participate without conflicting with school activities. The adult leagues are scheduled throughout the week, with Monday reserved for social leagues, Tuesday for premier leagues, Wednesday for competitive leagues, and Thursday for mixed leagues. This structured approach allows players to find a suitable league that matches their skill level and commitment.
Who Can Play Netball?
One of the key points emphasised by Skelding is the inclusivity of netball;
“Netball is a sport that can be played by anybody at any level and still be enjoyed,”
This inclusive nature is a cornerstone of Active Netball’s philosophy, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or skill, has the opportunity to participate. From tots as young as two years old to seasoned adults, the program welcomes all.
Age Ranges and Development Programs
Active Netball caters to a wide range of age groups. The youngest players, known as “mini ballers,” start at age two, with adapted games and lower posts to help them develop their skills. As players progress, they can participate in various levels such as youth challenge, youth competitive, and youth premier leagues. The adult leagues also see a mix of under-18 teams and experienced adult teams competing at high levels. This comprehensive development program ensures continuous growth and skill development for players of all ages.
UAE Netball Federation’s Involvement
The UAE Netball Federation plays a crucial role in the sport’s governance and development. The Federation, recognised as federation number 42, has worked tirelessly to promote netball within the region. Skelding shared the challenges and achievements of establishing a governing body in a sport that was relatively unknown in the region. Through partnerships with organisations like Europe Netball and World Netball, the UAE has made significant strides on the international stage.
The Federation’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. UAE teams have competed in the European Championships and have achieved impressive rankings, currently sitting at 21st in the world. This success is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and administrators involved.
Partnerships and Sponsorships
One of the notable achievements of Active Netball is the establishment of the Nakheel Netball Hub in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). This facility, with its six courts, serves as a central hub for netball activities in Dubai. The partnership with Nakheel has allowed Active Netball to offer a variety of community sessions, including free sessions for tots, mixed leagues, and rock-up-and-play events. These initiatives have significantly contributed to the sport’s growth and accessibility.
Overcoming Challenges
The journey has not been without its challenges. The pandemic posed significant disruptions, but the resilient netball community in Dubai managed to continue playing while adhering to safety protocols. Skelding also highlighted the ongoing need for qualified umpires, a challenge they have addressed by establishing umpiring courses and assessments in collaboration with England Netball and Europe Netball.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Skelding is optimistic about the future of netball in Dubai. With plans to host more international events and further develop grassroots programs, the goal is to continue expanding the sport’s reach and impact. The focus remains on building a strong community, providing quality netball experiences, and ensuring that the sport remains accessible to all.
The netball community in Dubai, under the guidance of Skelding and her staff and the UAE Netball Federation, has grown remarkably over the past decade. With inclusive league structures, development programs for all age groups, and strong partnerships, netball is set to continue thriving in the UAE. For anyone looking to join a team or get involved, Active Netball offers a welcoming and supportive environment to enjoy this fantastic sport.
For more information on how to join a league or participate in netball activities, visit the Active Netball website or follow their social media channels for the latest updates and news.
About the author
Alex Johnson
I'm a passionate digital marketer based in Dubai who enjoys rugby, photography and the outdoors. I've been helping businesses grow their online presence for over 20 years with clients based all across the globe.