I have been participating in sports since a young age, and to carry on this through school, college and university has been amazing in so many ways. The opportunity given to me, especially being a female from the BAME community, to further being a role model to others and showing that in sport there is a place for everyone.

I started university in 2016, in which I automatically took an interest to UCLan Netball club with being from a netball background. Most of the UCLan sports clubs have both social sessions and competitive teams that compete in the BUCS league against other universities. Each year for those wanting to represent the uni, the club provide structured trials to create teams for the upcoming season before training commences.

Putting on my UCLan kit and being on court knowing that I am representing my uni gives me a sense of pride and honour. To be able to perform at this high level and elevate performance as an individual and a team makes me feel so proud.

I have always loved everything sports, so I was easily drawn to try out new sporting activities and the Students’ Union provided many opportunities and easy access to get involved in a variety of sports. During my time at UCLan I have been involved with clubs such as women’s Netball, Futsal, Basketball, Baseball and Softball. If it was not for the Students’ Union, I most likely would not have been introduced to sports such as Baseball and Softball or had the confidence to transition from Netball to Basketball. The SU set up Give It A Go sessions which gives students the opportunity to try something new in a safe environment.

It is not all about competitiveness as there is so much more to being part of a club and team. The social life is great with weekly themed socials every Wednesday which is a great team bonding experience. However if the night life isn’t your scene, there are also socials throughout the year that don’t involve drinking. My favourite social is the Christmas and end of year social where we get a chance to dress up and have a nice meal.

All the clubs as a whole are a close knit group who support each other like a big family. One of the main benefits of being part of club or society is meeting new people and making friends for life. It is also a brilliant way to balance the study life and relieve pressure and stress from everyday life. For me personally, playing sports helps me with my wellbeing and creates a safe space to destress and enjoy the moment of feeling free.

Another benefit, other-than the obvious of keeping physically fit, is the personal development and skills fostered through team sports such as communication, team work, self esteem and a sense of community. Being part of the club has improved my confidence within myself, around others and within my sport performance. This is by seeing development in all aspects of training and games and the ability of seeing visible improvements. Most importantly knowing that my teammates and coach believe in me and the positive thinking taken into games.