‘Her World, Her Rules’ changing the game for young female athletes

In a sports landscape often dominated by boys, a transformative initiative is redefining the rules for young girls eager to step onto the court. The “Her World, Her Rules” basketball program, now in its third year, is not just about teaching girls how to play basketball; it’s about empowering them to take charge of their athletic journeys and building a supportive community around the game.

Launched by Northern Mariana Islands Basketball Federation board member Marlene Lumabi and the NMIBF, the program seeks to cultivate female talent in basketball, addressing the glaring lack of opportunities for girls in the sport. “We do not have much of a big pool for our women’s basketball or girls; we don’t even have a youth basketball league,” Lumabi explains. With the aim of creating a pathway for young athletes, the program focuses on entry-level training and the development of female coaches, encouraging a new generation to engage with the sport.

A key component of this initiative is the emphasis on 3×3 basketball, which Lumabi believes offers a more intimate and engaging environment for young players. “3×3 will grow the individual as a player and also their basketball IQ,” she notes, highlighting how the format’s faster pace demands constant movement and teamwork. This structure not only nurtures individual skills but also prepares participants for the traditional 5×5 game.

The impact of the program is evident through the voices of participants like 12-year-old Chloe Enriquez from Francisco Mendiola Sablan Middle School and 13-year-old Santo Baidya from Hopwood Middle School. Enriquez, who joined the program to improve her skills, initially felt nervous on her first day, surrounded by new faces. However, she quickly discovered a supportive environment that allowed her to thrive. “Over time, it was really fun, and I liked it,” she recalls, emphasizing how the activities helped her grow. “The shooting and the dribbling… it made my confidence go higher.”

Enriquez highlighted the significance of teamwork, stating, “I learned that teamwork is a big thing in basketball,” a lesson that resonates deeply in the collaborative atmosphere of the program.

Baidya, who had never considered basketball until discovering this program, found herself inspired by her peers. “They definitely inspired me to keep going,” she shares, admiring the skill and enthusiasm of the other girls. Her initial challenges with dribbling, where the ball kept slipping from her fingers, became opportunities for growth thanks to the supportive coaches. “They told me to take my time, and they made me feel comfortable playing the game,” she explains, illustrating the program’s commitment to building confidence.

Both Enriquez and Baidya expressed a newfound passion for the sport and an eagerness to continue their basketball journeys. Enriquez affirmed, “Yes, I do see myself continuing basketball after this program,” while Baidya echoed her enthusiasm, stating, “I want to play even more… I think it’s fun, and I could get the hang of the basic skills.” The program also pays special attention to shy participants, creating an environment where friendships can flourish. Lumabi actively works to encourage shy girls to connect with new friends and build a sense of sisterhood. “We want to grow the interest for basketball,” she affirms, emphasizing that the program is about much more than just athletic skill.

As the “Her World, Her Rules” program continues to empower young girls, it stands as a vital step toward equality in sports, nurturing not just athletes but confident, collaborative young women ready to take on the world.