The 2020 Netball NSW Academy Challenge scheduled for 26-27 September in Orange has been cancelled.
The Academy Challenge was considered a major event on the 2020 Netball NSW Calendar. The Challenge was purposefully scheduled to enable athletes to commit to State Titles and other Netball NSW competitions, and then prepare with their Regional Academy of Sport Programs.
It is traditionally the culmination of the Regional Academy of Sport Netball program. Approximately 350 athletes, 50 coaches and 50 umpires come together for three days of match play, athlete assessment, talent identification, team bonding, coach and umpire mentoring and education.
Netball NSW remains committed to the Regional Academy of Sport program and the future of the Academy Challenge in years to come.
The decision to cancel the 2020 Netball NSW Academy Challenge was made reluctantly, and only after carefully reviewing the combination of unique and extenuating circumstances beyond the organisation's control due to Covid-19.
“Cancelling the Academy Challenge was such a tough decision,” explained Netball NSW General Manager - Performance and Pathways, Margaret Hamley, “But when we looked at the already incredibly crowded calendar in the second half of the year and the workload that will involve, and considered the amazingly bright future of all our Academy athletes we knew it was the right decision.
"In sport we train to be strong, agile and to overcome hurdles. At Netball NSW, we have been so proud as we have watched our Academy athletes set up training at home, stay committed to their goals, and find new ways to connect to each other and lift each other up.
"We understand athletes will be disappointed - so are we - but we encourage you to focus on the road ahead, continue to be the best you can be and concentrate on those goals within your control. Netball NSW remains totally committed to staying connected with and monitoring and motivating all Academy athletes.”
The Academy challenge dates for 2020 clashed with many re-scheduled NSW and Association competition dates. The HART Senior and Junior State Titles are now going to be held five days later. Some Associations are planning grand finals on the same weekend, and DOOLEYS Metro League semi finals, grand finals and play offs are also now scheduled to take place in the days leading into and directly following what would have been the Academy Challenge dates.
