League of Her Own: A place to meet, grow, and thrive
In partnership with TCHC and MLSE Foundation, League of Her Own encourages female youth to learn, practice and enhance their basketball skills.
League of Her Own participants stretch and warm up before their game.
For the fourth summer in a row, Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) and the Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) Foundation have run a successful summer basketball camp for TCHC female youth ages 13 to 18. League of Her Own started as a pilot in 2022 in partnership with MLSE Foundation and the University of Toronto. Since then, the program has invited tenants from across all regions to come to a safe place to learn, practice, and enhance their skills.
Every Monday evening throughout July and August, girls were bussed to MLSE LaunchPad to hear from special guest speakers. They participated in workshops on mental health, physical literacy, stretching, self-care and self-love. And of course, there was lots of action on court!
“This program is a place of positivity,” said Rahida Reyhana Qarizada, a 14-year-old tenant from the Neptune community. “You can feel the energy at MLSE Launchpad every week. Especially with dedicated coaches and mentors who are here to support you.”
Basketball is a growing sport in Toronto. Now that the city has a new WNBA team, the Toronto Tempo, the game is expected to rise in popularity among female youth.
“I love basketball. I used to play just for fun, but I’m getting more comfortable in it,” said Rahida. “A lot of kids today are on their devices at home and feeling depressed and sad. This program is an opportunity to get out of the house and move around. It’s good for our physical and mental health.”
Rahida Reyhana Qarizada has enjoyed being a part of the program.
The wide age range between participants means that not everyone has the same level of skill. But the program’s aim is to help each youth leave as better players and people.
“We work with the young girls on not only basketball, but also life skills that will set them up for the future,” said Micaela Onen, coach and a Senior Program Leader with TCHC. “We teach them about teamwork, competition, and fair play. This all translates off the court.”
Micaela Onen, coach and a Senior Program Leader with TCHC.
Sports are costly and programs like League of Her Own, which is free, break down accessibility barriers for TCHC tenants.
“Extra-curricular activities are expensive” acknowledges Micaela. “Partnering with MLSE Foundation gives girls, who may not otherwise have the opportunity, the chance to play in a league.”
For Rahida, it’s not just about sports.
“Meeting new girls my age from different communities and having fun has been so good for me,” she said. “It’s helped my mental and emotional health.”
Rahida looks on as Coach Micaela Onen game plans with her team.
