Starting from her early days playing the sport in England, Sophie Hankin has grown to become a key player and coach in the UAE.

Her story is a mix of personal triumphs and significant contributions to netball’s growth in her new home, making her a true inspiration.

‘I had to wait my time’

Growing up in a sporty family in England, Hankin began playing netball at the age of eight. Her initial exposure to the sport came from watching her mother and sisters play, which sparked a deep-seated love for the game. By age 14, Hankin was competing at a high level, moving through youth development pathways and eventually joining the Netball Super League at 17. Her talent and hard work earned her a spot on the England national team at both U19 and U21 levels.

“I had to love it. If I didn’t love it, I probably wouldn’t have got as far as I did. I had to wait my time. I had to wait my turn. I had to wait on the bench. And then when I did get my opportunity, I just took it.”

Hankin’s journey was not without its challenges. Despite being a training partner for her Super League team, she spent two years on the bench before seizing her opportunity when a teammate was injured. Her perseverance paid off, and she went on to play eight years in the Super League, representing teams like Saracens Mavericks and Surrey Storm.

Transition to the UAE

In 2020, amidst the uncertainties brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Hankin made a life-changing decision to move to Dubai. This transition marked a new chapter in her career, as she began representing the UAE national team and took on a pivotal role in coaching. Her impact was immediate and profound, contributing to the UAE’s rapid rise in the netball rankings and preparing the team for major international tournaments like the Singapore Cup and the U21 qualifiers in Wales.

‘Execute the core skills well’

Over the past four years, Hankin has witnessed and contributed to the remarkable growth of netball in the UAE. The national team has climbed several rankings, and the sport’s popularity has surged. The UAE’s participation in significant tournaments such as the Singapore Cup and U21 qualifiers marks a historic milestone, highlighting the country’s commitment to developing netball at all levels.

Hankin is particularly excited about the pipeline of young talent emerging in the UAE. As the head coach of the U21 squad, she emphasises the importance of mastering the fundamentals.

“If players can execute the core skills well, it becomes much easier to then build up their tactical and strategic understanding,” she explains.

Her coaching philosophy, which also stresses physical development, aims to emulate the athleticism and intensity of top netball programs globally.

‘Raise the bar for netball in the UAE’

Hankin’s journey has been marked by both triumphs and setbacks. A knee surgery during her time with Surrey Storm sidelined her for six months, but it only fueled her determination to return stronger.

In the UAE, Hankin has navigated the complexities of balancing her roles as a player and coach. Her experience and adaptability have allowed her to seamlessly transition between these roles, ensuring that she remains a high-performing athlete while also nurturing the next generation of players.

“It’s all about using my experience to lift others up and raise the bar for netball in the UAE,” she says.

‘I want to inspire young athletes’

Hankin’s future aspirations reflect her enduring passion for netball and her commitment to the sport’s development. She aims to continue playing at a high level for as long as possible, while also focusing on her coaching career to develop UAE’s young talent.

“I want to inspire young athletes and help the UAE national team continue its upward trajectory,” she says.

The upcoming tournaments, including the Singapore Cup and the U21 qualifiers in Wales, represent significant opportunities for Hankin and the UAE national team. These competitions will not only test their skills and strategies but also provide valuable exposure and experience on the international stage.

‘Enjoy the process’

Hankin’s journey from a young girl in England to a prominent figure in UAE netball exemplifies the impact one individual can have on a sport and a community. Through her dedication, Hankin is not only achieving personal success but also paving the way for future generations of netball players in the UAE.

Her advice to aspiring athletes underscores the importance of perseverance and enjoying the journey.

“You have to enjoy the process to get there,” she says. “All the hard training, extra hours, and sacrifices are worth it because of where I am now.”

As Sophie Hankin continues to break new ground and inspire others, her legacy in UAE netball is set to grow. With her leadership, the sport is poised for even greater achievements, reflecting the incredible journey of an athlete who has dedicated her life to the game she loves.