NATIONAL NETBALL GLORY FOR KING'S TALENT

King’s School Year 10 netball talent, Minnie Farooq, has arrived home to celebrate a victorious tour to South Korea, where she represented the first ever Pakistan U21s team at the Asian Youth Girls Netball Championship 2025, at just 15 years old!

Reaching the final last week after commanding defeats of hosts, South Korea, as well as Chinese Taipei (56-32), Japan (64-39) and Saudi Arabia (71-15), the Pakistan squad were crowned champions (Plate Division Cup winners) after beating Maldives 60-35.  

Minnie, who plays club netball for Bramhall as well as Birmingham Panthers, was called up to play for the all-British Pakistani team and made Vice-Captain for their trip to South Korea. She spent time at various camps across the UK getting to know her coaches and teammates before travelling to South Korea for the Championship. 

Coach Amanda Newton who is an ex-England player and captain has done a fantastic job with this team and will continue to work with them towards their next Asian Cup to be held in Hong Kong in August 2026! 

Not only a huge personal achievement for Minnie being selected, but it was a historical moment for Pakistan to form a national team and inspire more British Asian young women to play netball. Already their success has made a huge impact with lots of emails from eligible girls requesting trials.

Minnie said:

"My grandparents are from Pakistan and when I realised I was eligible to play for them, it was so exciting. I didn't know any of the other girls on the team when I joined, but I have come home with some great new friends. It's been a brilliant experience and I can't wait to play for Pakistan again and show other Asian girls that anything can be achieved!”

Upon winning the Asian Youth Championship, the squad has been further selected for a tournament in Singapore in November this year as well as being invited to visit the Pakistan High Commission in London this summer.

Phil Owen, Netball Coach at King’s congratulated Minnie on her success. He said:

“There are multiple reasons to celebrate Minnie’s selection for Pakistan U21s and their ultimate championship title. At just 15 years old, Minnie has shown such maturity and commitment, and King’s is so proud of her performance as vice-captain of the team. Minnie is waving an important flag for young Asian girls, showing that it is possible to play sport and follow your dreams. We will continue to follow and support Minnie’s netball progress and everyone at King’s is so proud of her.”

Pictured - King’s School Year 10 netball talent, Minnie Farooq.