For Charlotte Williams, basketball has always been about more than just playing. It is about opportunity, energy, and creating space for women in the game.

Charlotte first picked up a basketball at 14 when a coach visited her school. She loved how fast-paced and competitive it felt straight away. But despite that early spark, she didn’t get the chance to play properly until university.

“There wasn’t a women’s team at my school or college,” she says. “So I had to wait until I got to university to really play.” That long wait only made her more determined.

BUCS Tier 1 Competition

At University of Leeds, Charlotte competed in Tier 1 for three years and was the captain of the team for two. The level was intense. “We were playing against universities with SLB bench players. It was aggressive and quick. I absolutely adored it.”

University basketball gave her confidence and a strong competitive edge. Moving into National League with the Hawks brought new challenges. “In National League, you’re playing against more experienced players. The IQ is different. People read the game really well. At uni, it can be faster. They both push you in different ways.”

The transition felt natural, but she quickly realised she was now surrounded by players with a wide range of experience to learn from.

Starting Something New

Charlotte initially joined the Hawks as a table official, but when conversations about launching a women’s team began, she didn’t hesitate. “I wanted to play National League. After university, the options for women are limited. So when this came up, I was completely on board.”

The first season has come with challenges. Results have not always gone their way. But what stands out to Charlotte is the bond forming within the group. “The girls are like my family. We travel far for games, stay in hotels, drive to away fixtures together. It builds something special.”

Resilience has become part of the team identity. “You have to stay positive. We all believe in the same thing. It’s not just teammates — they’re people I genuinely want to spend time with.”

Energy on the Court

As a shooting guard, Charlotte is confident from the three-point line. But she describes her role slightly differently. “I’d say I’m an uplifter. Especially in a tough season, it’s important no one’s head drops.”

She sees energy as part of her responsibility. “There are days when your shot isn’t falling, and the girls tell you to keep going. And then when it finally drops, it’s such a relief.”

That trust within the group keeps her confident, even during tough moments.

Coaching and Accountability

Alongside playing, Charlotte coaches — and the two roles complement each other. “If I’m telling the kids they can do it, I can’t step on court and say I can’t. It keeps me accountable.”

Coaching has made her more aware of the game and more adaptable. “They’re very compatible. What I say off the court, I try to deliver on it.”

Playing for Equal Opportunity

Charlotte lives an hour and a half away from Huddersfield. Every training session and home game requires that journey. She makes it without hesitation. “I’m so passionate about women having equal opportunities in sport. That’s why I do it.”

In 2025, she was recognised as Basketball England’s Inspiring Woman of the Year — something she describes simply: “Everything. Absolutely everything.”

The recognition reflects her belief that women deserve visible, competitive pathways in the sport.

“There are so many inspiring women on this team. Being part of something bigger than just ourselves is special.”

For Charlotte, this first season with the Hawks is not just about wins and losses. It is about building something that lasts — for the players on the court now and for the next generation watching.