Muslim women lead inclusivity campaign for British basketball

Endorsed by the Muslim Women's Sport Foundation, the 'all-star' squad will seek to play teams across various UK leagues, acting as role models to inspire Muslim women from all backgrounds to participate in the sport.

The idea behind the squad is to bridge the gap between communities not currently engaged in basketball to higher level mainstream competitions in the sports industry, showcasing how these parties can work together for good.

"The MWSF began with the British Muslim women's teams," said MWSF chair Rimla Akhtar.

"After developing a platform for Muslim women and girls in grassroots sport over the past 12 years, we are now reviving the British teams, beginning with basketball, as we move to the next stage of our work.

"These women will undoubtedly inspire and motivate those from the Muslim community and beyond.

"We are extremely excited to launch the British Muslim women's basketball team later this year and we are proud to be doing so through this close partnership with British Basketball."

Trials will be held by MWSF from which they will be looking to select a squad of ten players.

The northern trials will be held at Dinnington High School in Sheffield on Saturday 21 April and the southern on Sunday 29 April at Isaac Newton Academy in Ilford.

"We are proud to support the MWSF with this unique initiative," said Lisa Wainwright, CEO of British Basketball.

"Following FIBA's decision last year to allow religious headgear to be worn during matches this is another positive step in continuing to drive forwards inclusivity in basketball.

"We wish the MWSF every success with their upcoming trials and future activity."

Sportsbeat 2018