One of Netball SA’s most significant events on the annual calendar is just around the corner, with the Academy Games to be played next week.
Priceline Stadium will again host the three-day event, which kicks off next Tuesday, September 29 and ends on Thursday, October 1.
Each year, the Games are held during the October school holidays as the culmination event to the Netball SA Academy Program.
The Academy Program uses the national Develop a Diamond curriculum to provide a development pathway for identified coaches, umpires and players, aged between 14-16 years.
Competing teams are from the nine academies who complete the Netball SA Academy Program in their respective regions from February to October.
The competition draw is structured on the number of players involved across all academies. Players can use the opportunity to showcase their skills for a chance to be selected at the games for Phase 2 State 17U trials.
Netball SA Product and Pathways Manager Roz Fraser said the Games were an important part of the player pathway with the next progression from Academy to 17U State Teams.
“Players will have access to a range of specialist coaches including the 2020 17U and 19U State Coaches during the skill session day which was a new initiative introduced last year,” Ms Fraser said.
“They also have the opportunity to be selected to attend Phase Two of the State 17U Trials, which is the next step in the player pathway.”
Ms Fraser said the Games were also a great opportunity for umpires and coaches to continue their development.
“Umpires have the opportunity for development throughout the program and then a mentoring process is conducted at the Games,” Ms Fraser said.
“Coaches also have mentors in attendance during the year and at the Games to help with their development.
“They also have the opportunity to work alongside the specialist coaches during the skills session on the first day of the Games.”
Adding to the excitement of this year’s games, the winners of the Academy Challenge will be announced at the closing ceremony on Thursday at the conclusion of the Grand Final.
2019 Academy Games Winners
Division 1: Adelaide Academy
Division 2 Pool A: Adelaide Academy Team A
Division 2 Pool B: Northern Regional Academy
Download the 2020 Academy Games Program.
