Pathways
Your Netball Journey
Have fun, get serious, train hard and who knows what you can achieve. Follow the recommended pathway and Central Coast HEART can help…
The following Netball NSW Athlete Pathway has been adapted by Central Coast Heart to inform and advise players and parents regarding the recommended stages of development, from beginner through to elite representation.
Where it all starts
Usually, parents will enrol their child in a local netball club for the general benefits of sport, exercise and social connectivity. But within just a couple of seasons and with a good coach the learning of basic movement skills (running, jumping, catching, etc.) and enjoying the game is apparent.
Many schools have a netball program and this is an additional opportunity to further develop fitness and skills.
The next step
The recognition of talent. If a child shows potential in technical, psychological and physical skills they will be spotted and invited to trial for their association representative team, to attend carnivals and compete against other association teams.
At these events Central Coast Heart endeavours to spot potential and encourage players to step up and trial for the teams supported by them: The Metro League, Heart 23U, and Premier League.
Central Coast Heart also has a Talented Athlete Immersion program (TaiP) as well as an Academy for those athletes who didn’t quite make selection into team squads but they do have potential and with specialised training will achieve further success.
Training for all Central Coast Heart athletes includes both on court skills as well as off court behaviour and practices. It is a wholesome approach to professional sport.
Many athletes are proficient in several sports and understandably want to do well in all of them. Proper management of fitness is essential which avoids injury that can cut short a promising sporting career. Central Coast Heart partners with Coast Sport a local Physio and sports medicine provider with experience in managing athletes all the way to Olympic level which ensures athletes within their programs have access to the best care and advice.
The Ultimate Achievement
Being selected for a Central Coast Heart team is not the end of the road. There are opportunities for those with the talent and desire to progress further. Playing with Central
Coast Heart exposes individuals to selectors for the Swifts or Giants academies the Youth World Cup, the Netball Australian Squad then ultimately there is potential for selection into the Suncorp Super Netball competition, and a ultimately the chance to represent the country in The Australian Diamonds squad.
Wrap Up
Whatever the level of talent Central Coast Heart is dedicated to managing and furthering the desires of its athletes. This is evidenced with players in current Heart teams and programs from all three Central Coast Associations as well as increasing representation from the Hunter region.
If this article generates questions please contact us through our website and we will endeavour to give the appropriate guidance.
It is important to remember the following key themes:
- Develop skills, fitness, and love for the game.
- Progress through structured programs and competitions.
- Embrace team culture and behaviours.