Netballers attend academy camp

NETBALLERS from the North Coast Academy of Sport have taken part in a statewide academy camp designed to prepare athletes for the upcoming Regional Academy Games season.

More than 350 athletes and 100 coaches participated in a program of on court and off court sessions held at venues across Sydney Olympic Park.

The camp was run by Netball NSW and provided players, coaches and umpires with opportunities to develop their skills through specialist workshops, education sessions and match play.

Participants took part in speed and agility training, technical netball drills and leadership sessions while working with high performance coaches and support staff.

Netball NSW state performance and pathways manager Georgia Fuller said the camp remained an important part of the sport’s development pathway.

“Seeing our Regional Academies of Sport athletes connecting with players who have progressed through the same pathway and are now representing New South Wales was a powerful moment,” she said.

“It reinforces what is possible through the pathway and the opportunities that exist within our sport.”

Athletes also heard from Giants Netball captain Whitney Souness and Hope White during the program.

A full day of competition included 72 games, giving academy players an early look at the season ahead.

A North Coast Academy of Sport spokesperson thanked Netball NSW and program partners for supporting the initiative.

“Initiatives such as the Academy Camp play a critical role in identifying and nurturing the next generation of netball talent across the state,” the spokesperson said.

The North Coast athletes will next compete at the 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games in Tamworth from April 17 to 19.