
LUBNA MOSRSETH – COVER STORY BY MAHELI SRI GINTOTAGE
Unlike most nineteensomethings,Fathima Lubna Mehthab Morseth or better known as ‘Lubby’ already has a long and varied career behind her. She was Lyceum International School’s Head Prefect and the Captain of the Girl’s Basketball team with numerous awards including ‘The Most Valuable Player’ in the bag . Her extracurricular activities included competing and setting records for Javelin and Shot putt in International Schools Athletic Championships and National Championships . She has represented Sri Lanka since she was 14 on multiple international pedestals , until the pandemic put the world on hold. With things returning to normalcy ,this Basketball prodigy,304 (three-nought-four) enthusiast, and ACCA student is poised for world dominance.
You made your international debut when you were 14, how has your journey been since?
It has been pretty good. I’ve had many ups and downs but I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve gotten and the risks I’ve taken that have brought me to where I am today.
How did you get into Basketball?
I got into the sport because of my sister. I loved watching her play and loved the idea of having a special bond with a team just like she did. I also sort of envied the fact that she got all the cool shoes, kits etc… and that made me try basketball out and the rest is history.
You’ve also performed really well in inter-International School Tournaments where you’ve made new meet records in the shot putt and javelin throw. Do you think you’d pursue these sports on a national scale?
Although I loved doing those sports, for the time being, I’d like to stick to playing ball only. That way I’ll be able to focus and grow more, challenging myself to be the best I can at this sport.
You are at the peak of your Basketball career, did the pandemic affect you in any way?
Definitely yes. There was a time period where everything just felt blank and off, as all the tournaments kept getting cancelled, practices kept getting cancelled and no one really knew what the next step was. But thankfully, with safety precautions of course, everything has resumed now and we’ve got new things to look forward to everyday.
You were also the Head Prefect of Lyceum International School Wattala, how did you manage your Head Prefect duties and Basketball?
It was challenging of course, but I had two amazing deputies, a team of incredibly talented prefects and friends who backed me up throughout all of it.
What can we expect from Lubna Morseth in the future?
Great things for sure. I’m working really hard right now pushing myself everyday so that the ‘future me’ will look back and be proud of what I’ve achieved.
Who inspires you?
People, places and alot of things. I find new inspirations everyday, from reading a book to a YouTube video I had just watched or a podcast I had listened to, there are so many things that inspire me.
What was your family’s reaction to you performing so well?
My biggest support system is my family. They’re always happy to see any of us thrive. I couldn’t possibly ask for more.
What is one unforgettable moment?
Being chosen to represent my country for the youth olympic games in Argentina. The experience, the place, the people, it was definitely a tour to remember.
The court can be very stressful at tense times, what do you do to focus?
I try to stop thinking and worrying so much and only try to focus on the things I can do in those moments. Words of encouragement also help.
What is a goal you’ve set for yourself?
Be the best I can, experience as much as I can and simply be happy no matter where I am or what I do.