Islam

Worldwide Islam has over 1.3 billion followers (as of 2005).

Muslims believe that there is one God and the truths of Islam have been gradually revealed through a line of prophets ending with Muhammad in the 7th Century.

Muslims eat Halal food and meat that has been slaughtered in a specific way – they will not eat the meat of a pig. Muslims have an obligation to pray 5 times a day, at dawn, midday, late afternoon, sunset and nightfall.

They have a number of Observances throughout the year. Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and fasting will take place for 29/30 days. During this time Muslims will tend to eat a large meal before dawn.

According to Islamic or Sharia law a woman must be dressed modestly – Women and girls can cover themselves from head to foot in a Burqa.or wear a hijab (the word hijab translates as ‘covered’) Men and boys are expected to change in solitude and to maintain modesty should cover themselves from naval to knee.

Players in the UK may attend Mosque between 4.00 and 6.00 daily and also be weak during times of fasting. Changing facilities may also be a concern for some Muslims. Girls may have to dress modestly and many Muslims will not allow their daughters / sisters etc to participate with a male coach present.