Foundation Waratah & Foundation Warada

In the language of the Dharug and Eora peoples Warada means beautiful and describes what is known in Australian English as the Waratah.

A significant number of commonly used Australian English words have been borrowed from Aboriginal languages and dialects. When British colonists arrived in Australia in 1788, there were more than 200 distinct language groups and over 600 dialects.

Programs will include activation and strength exercises, a warm-up focusing on correct technique in running, jumping and agility, a range of netball skills and education in nutrition, well-being and journaling.

The Foundation Waratah and Foundation Warada programs have been developed by Anita Keelan (Former Swifts Assistant Coach) and Jill McIntosh (Former Diamonds Coach & Captain).

Netball NSW has also consulted with experts in the areas of movement, strength, physiotherapy, performance science and psychology.

The warm -up, skills and education components of the Warada programs will be the same as the Foundation Waratah program.
The Foundation Warada program is for athletes who identify as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent and who are excited by the opportunity to train, learn and be challenged with athletes who share their cultural heritage.

We know that strong Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation rates and talent within our community competitions are not translating into our performance pathway and in the planning of the Foundation Warada program Netball NSW is committed to working with local Aboriginal communities to strive to overcome this inequality.

It is our hope that the Foundation Warada program will provide a safe place for athletes who choose to come along to build skills, meet role models and be supported to strive for excellence. 

Of course, we encourage athletes to do what feels right for them knowing that both programs will have a strong emphasis on inclusivity, respect and fun.

Absolutely! Netball NSW believes representative players will benefit from the focus on individual development of a range of technical, physical skills and well-being skills.

The dates have purposefully been set in February, August and September to enable you to focus on representative netball from March to July.

Did you know that many sports stars did not get selected in teams when they were young? Netball NSW knows that athletes develop at different stages and just because you were not selected this year does not mean you will not achieve your goals in future years.

If you are motivated to be the very best you can be then these programs are for you.

Netball NSW aims to limit cost as a barrier and have been mindful to set the program costs at a level that covers delivery costs. We do understand that family circumstances vary and encourage families that cannot pay the registration fee at this time to email Margaret Hamley – General Manager Performance & Pathways mhamley@netballnsw.com in confidence to apply for support.

 Please note there will be a limited number of supported places available.

Registrations are currently open and will close on December 15, 2021, unless capacity is reached at each venue.
Athletes will be notified by December 10th if they have been successful and will be provided dates, venues and times.
There will be no reduction in fees if athletes miss 1 or 2 sessions.
Consideration will be given to a refund if athletes have a long- term injury of illness and submit a medical certificate.
There will be a refund of $20 per session if sessions are cancelled due to COVID restrictions or other unforeseen circumstances.