UAE Eyasses netball team ready for 'amazing opportunity' against England and Scotland

Having played a key part in the UAE Falcons' success at the European Open Challenge in October, Charlie Preston has been asked to bring that experience to the table when she leads the Eyasses in the European U17 Quadrangular from February 25 to 27.

The Eyasses meet Scotland in the opener followed by fixtures against England and England Invitation across the three days.

Preston is understandably excited to get an opportunity to lead the country's age-group team against established netball nations as they embark on their first tour since the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic.

“I can't even describe how excited I am for this amazing opportunity. We've all trained really hard for this tournament and can't wait to experience a different style of competition playing against England, one of the strongest netball countries in the world,” Preston told The National.

“This is my first time ever leading a team overseas. I'm so happy to be given this opportunity to represent the UAE at U17 level.”

The age-group tournaments are held every year. However, they have been impacted by the pandemic over the last two seasons.

The competition is split into Championship (top four countries) and Challenge (all other Europe Netball member countries). The UAE is currently in the Challenge section.

Charlie Preston (captain) – goal shooter/ goalkeeper (Dubai College)

Arushi Holt (vice-captain) – wing defence / centre (Jumeriah English Speaking School)

Olivia Petricola (vice-captain) – centre / wing attack (Dubai English Speaking College)

Isabel Affley – goalkeeper / goal defence (Dubai English Speaking College)

Jemma Eley – goal attack / wing attack (Dubai College)

Alana Farrell-Morton – centre / wing / defence / wing attack (Nord Anglia