Sharjah Wanderers Club is making significant strides with the recent introduction of a netball team.

Spearheaded by Candice Oosthuizen, the head of the sports committee and manager of the ladies’ rugby and netball teams, the club is fostering a community spirit while promoting diverse sports activities. We take a look at the development of the netball team, the club’s vision for the future, and the efforts to create a robust sports community in Sharjah.

The Birth of Sharjah Wanderers Netball Team

The Sharjah Wanderers Netball Team was established in February/March 2023, with an initial membership of around 25 women. This diverse group includes six members who are entirely new to the sport, while others have played netball before. Despite being a newly formed team, they have already played one friendly match against the RAK netball club, showcasing their potential and determination.

“We started the netball team because we saw a need for it in the community,” said Oosthuizen. “While we are currently a social team, we plan to become more competitive next season and participate in various tournaments.”

‘Our goal is to attract more local Emiratis’

The Wanderers are not just about playing sports; it’s about building a community. The club leverages word of mouth and social media, particularly Instagram, to attract members and promote their activities. Oosthuizen emphasises the importance of creating a sense of belonging and home for the members.

“Our goal is to attract more local Emiratis and connect with schools to get more people involved,” Oosthuizen explained. “We want everyone to feel welcome and part of something bigger.”

Oosthuizen has been instrumental in the revival and growth of sports at Sharjah Wanderers. A sports committee member overseeing all sports at the club, she also manages the ladies’ rugby and netball teams. With a background in netball since the age of 10 in South Africa, Oosthuizen brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role.

“Coming to Sharjah and meeting everyone at the club gave me a sense of family and home,” Oosthuizen shared. “I wanted to give back and build this community even bigger.”

‘The underdogs who surprise everyone’

The future looks promising for the Wanderers. Their goals for the next season include increasing membership, improving skills like defence and shooting, and hosting netball tournaments in Sharjah. They also hope to participate in the Dubai Sevens netball tournament next year.

“We want to host tournaments and bring in teams from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other regions,” said Oosthuizen. “Our aim is to be the underdogs who surprise everyone at major tournaments.”

‘Our focus is on training’

One of the significant challenges faced by the club is finding qualified coaches for the new teams. Currently, Oosthuizen is coaching the netball team herself but is actively seeking a dedicated coach. Additionally, balancing the needs of new and experienced players requires careful management and training strategies.

“Our focus is on training and improving, especially for the new players who are still learning the basics of netball,” Oosthuizen explained. “We want to ensure everyone feels confident and capable on the court.”

‘Excited about the future’

Inclusivity is at the heart of The Wanderers’ mission. The club is dedicated to providing affordable sports opportunities for all, aiming to build a legacy that encourages participation from diverse backgrounds. This approach not only enriches the club but also strengthens the broader community in Sharjah.

“We are committed to making sports accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” Oosthuizen stated. “By building a strong community, we hope to inspire more people to join and benefit from the positive impact of sports.”

The journey of creating the Sharjah Wanderers Netball Team has just begun, and there is a long road ahead. The club plans to expand its reach, attract more members, and solidify its presence in the UAE’s sports scene. With the support of dedicated members and the local community, Sharjah Wanderers is poised to become a hub for sports enthusiasts in the region.

“We are excited about the future and the potential to grow even more,” Oosthuizen concluded. “Our focus remains on building a supportive and inclusive community where everyone can thrive.”

The Wanderers efforts to introduce and promote netball are a significant step towards enhancing the sports culture in Sharjah. With a clear vision, dedicated leadership, and a strong sense of community, the club is well on its way to making a lasting impact. As they prepare for the next season, the club epitomises the spirit of determination and inclusivity, setting a positive example for sports development in the region.

For more information about Sharjah Wanderers Club and how to get involved, visit their official website or follow them on social media.