SHARJAH, 5 May 2007 — The American University of Sharjah (AUS) overcame the spirited challenge from the Jeddah United (JU) women’s team to win 29-19 at a basketball tournament held at AUS campus on Thursday.
The AUS team got off to a flying start with a series of baskets to take an 11-2 lead in the first quarter. The Jeddah United team found their rhythm in the second quarter to bridge the gap and end the half 11-17 down. Their best showing was in the third quarter when only four points separated the team with the AUS up 19-15. But the local team refound their range as they pulled away to a fine victory.
“The match was interesting and tough. Ours is a local team that has not played outside Saudi Arabia. But teams like AUS have played in Gulf events and international tournaments and that proved the difference. However, the match was prestigious for JU women, and a memorable experience,” said Lina Almaeena after the match.
The JU women also played a friendly match with Sharjah Ladies Club. Jeddah United is a private and professional basketball team that was founded in 2005.
In February 2007, the JU women won the Women’s Street Basketball Tournament. The team also took first place in the Princess Fawzia Center for Women and Child tournament, which is part of the First Women’s Welfare Society activities.
The JU women’s division inspired the other divisions: JU boys, JU girls and JU kids. Jeddah United Sports Company (JUSC ) organized the games with the AUS and SLC. JUSC was establish to promote sports, train women and youth, and manage sports events. Head coach Umar Abdulsalam, coach Othman Barnawi, coach Ameen Bahartha and coach Basma Serafi have been instrumental in training the teams.
JUSC organized a “Back to School Tournament” in September 2006, “Father and Son Tournament” in December 2006, “Women’s Street Basketball Tournament” in February 2007, “Drink Milk Tournament” in April 2007 and will hold the “Cancer Survivor Tournament” in May 2007. Sports and regular exercise is an antidepressant for women. Basketball teaches teamwork, team leadership, discipline and self-control.
For us to compete internationally would be a big boost. We have not yet played outside Saudi Arabia against teams who have played in the Gulf, Arab and European events.
That’s why when we participate in the Greece tournament, it will be a win-win situation for JU women, said a team member.
Jeddah United Women Team: Lina Almaeena (captain), Maha Binladin (co-captain), Hazma Alireza, Karen Alghamdi, Shatha Rajab, Nora Ashrour, Marwa Ashrour, Tamara Siddiq, Kenana Bakhr, Raneem Rushdi. Acting coach: Pat Siddiq. Marketing Manager: Dania Almaeena. Team Coordinator: Sara Almaeena. Team Website: www.jeddahunited.com
