Saturday 25 April 2026 marked an inspiring day of sport, well-being, and community spirit as the Women’s Prapti Cup Netball Tournament, which welcomed 317 participants to Houstone School in Dunstable. Designed for women aged 34 and above, the event brought together participants from across the UK for a day focused on active living, friendship, and meaningful community connections.
The tournament featured two parallel competitions – the Prapti Cup Netball Tournament and the Mahima Cup Walking Netball Tournament. Together, they provided opportunities for women of different abilities and experience levels to take part in an enjoyable and inclusive sporting event.
As the day began, participants arrived full of enthusiasm and anticipation. The event’s welcoming atmosphere reflected its wider aim of encouraging healthier lifestyles, supporting mental well-being, and creating opportunities for women to connect through sport. Throughout the day, players demonstrated determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship, with every match demonstrating the positive impact of staying active and engaged within the community.
The Prapti Cup involved 238 participants across 31 teams, while the Mahima Cup welcomed 78 participants across 9 teams. Across both tournaments, players enjoyed healthy competition, encouragement from fellow participants, and the chance to develop new friendships.
A particular highlight of this year’s event was the involvement of England Netball, which attended as part of its centenary celebrations. Jo Brewster, Netball Development Officer and Bedfordshire & East Team Leader, attended alongside colleagues Nas and Phyliss, supporting the tournament from the opening ceremony onwards. England Netball representatives briefed umpires and scorers, provided coaching support throughout the day for players and officials, and also contributed to officiating matches.
England Netball further supported the event by providing official netballs donated by the London Mavericks of the Netball Super League, as well as water bottles for members of the Walking Netball teams. The organisation also expressed interest in building a lasting relationship with the tournament through future coaching and development opportunities.
Reflecting on the occasion, Jo Brewster described the tournament as inspiring, joyful, and empowering, praising both its organisation and the welcoming environment created for participants and guests. She highlighted how netball provides far more than physical activity, serving as a source of community, belonging, empowerment, and connection.
The smooth running of the event was made possible by more than 55 dedicated volunteers, with significant support from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Luton. Volunteers helped provide meals, snacks and refreshments throughout the day, while also assisting with serving, cleaning and coordinating the dining facilities, ensuring participants could focus on enjoying the experience.
The Prapti Cup once again demonstrated the power of sport to bring people together, promote well-being, and strengthen community bonds. Through friendly competition, teamwork, and shared experiences, the event created lasting memories while inspiring women to continue leading active and healthy lives.
