The annual BAPS Charities Community Women’s Youth Netball Tournament, the Pramukh Cup, was held in Birmingham on Saturday 6 September 2025, bringing together 145 players from 20 teams representing 14 towns and cities across the UK.
Several teams took part for the first time, including teams from Leeds, Wellingborough, Luton, and West London, as well as SAMP teams – teams comprising players from multiple towns and cities, including Preston, Coventry, and South-East London. The tournament was supported by 30 volunteers and four referees, who helped manage the matches and ensure fair play throughout the day.
Teams arrived in the morning to register and enjoy breakfast together before the opening ceremony, which emphasised teamwork, unity, and dedication. A group photo concluded the ceremony before participants travelled to St. Peter’s Academy for the tournament.
A total of 47 matches were played across four leagues, with both indoor and outdoor courts hosting simultaneous games. After the group stages and knockout rounds, Leicester A emerged as champions, defeating Birmingham A in a highly competitive final to lift the Pramukh Cup.
Beyond the scores, the tournament highlighted community spirit and togetherness:
Diya Patel, who travelled from Coventry with her mother, integrated seamlessly into her mixed SAMP team. She helped foster an environment of inclusion, ensuring that teammates shared meals and offered one another encouragement and support throughout the day.
Nilaiya Chandarana, from Peterborough, joined the Leicester team after training with them regularly. She provided valuable experience and guidance, strengthening the team’s cohesion and contributing meaningfully to their success.
Examples of sportsmanship and unity were evident throughout the tournament. A Leicester player paused during the final to assist an opposing teammate who had fallen, while senior players from Luton mentored younger teammates, instilling resilience and reinforcing the importance of teamwork despite their early exit.
When last-minute dropouts occurred, a second SAMP team was formed from volunteers. They embraced the opportunity with flexibility and positivity, demonstrating resilience and team spirit that reflected the ethos of the tournament.
The closing ceremony celebrated not only the athletic achievements of the day, but also the cooperation, leadership, and empathy demonstrated by participants throughout the tournament.
Results
Champions: Leicester A
Runners-Up: Birmingham A
SAMP Award: Diya Patel (Coventry / SAMP Team)
