Netball NSW has unveiled 44 rising stars selected for the 2026 Sydney Netball Academy Teams, showcasing an exceptional cohort of young athletes poised to take a significant step into the state’s emerging pathway.
Chosen from a fiercely competitive pool of more than 200 triallists from the Sydney Netball Academy Local catchment areas, including Manly Warringah, Eastwood Ryde, Sutherland Shire, Randwick, Inner West, St George, Ku-ring-gai and Northern Suburbs, these athletes now progress into one of Netball NSW’s premier development programs — a year of training, education and competition designed to accelerate their growth both on and off the court as they work toward future 17U state selection.
The Sydney Netball Academy forms part of the broader Netball Academy of Sport Program — a partnership between Netball NSW, the Regional Academies of Sport (RAS Ltd), and the NSW Office of Sport.
Together, these organisations create a supportive, challenging, and fun culture that introduces talented athletes, umpires, and coaches to performance sport. The program focuses on long-term individual development, helping participants unlock their potential both on and off the court.
Participants train regularly within their region as part of an Academy squad and also come together for Academy Camps, Academy Games, and the Academy Challenge — unique experiences that foster growth, competition, and connection. There are 12 Academies across NSW, each aligned to specific residential catchments.
State Performance and Pathways Manager Georgia Fuller said the program remains one of the earliest and most significant entry points into the state high-performance system.
“Selection into the Sydney Netball Academy is one of the first steps in our pathway,” Fuller said.
The Sydney Netball Academy plays a crucial role in this pathway, providing high-calibre coaching, structured development blocks and major competition opportunities for talented 15 and 16-year-olds looking to advance to the next level of the sport.
“The athletes selected this year now have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a structured, high-quality program designed to prepare them for future Emerging and State Team opportunities.”
Athletes selected for the 2026 intake will undertake two key development blocks across the year:
- Block One (January – April): Academy camp, Academy Games and regular training
- Block Two (July – September): Training block culminating in the Academy Challenge
Fortnightly training sessions will take place at Sydney Olympic Park, led by Head Coach Tasha Saint, supported by a team of assistant and apprentice coaches.
Fuller said the program is designed to challenge athletes both on and off the court.
“Throughout the year, they’ll be exposed to high-performance behaviours, off-court education, and competition environments that mirror the elite pathway,” she said. “It’s an incredible opportunity to grow not only as netballers but as young people.”
She added that the high level of interest in the program reflects the strength of netball in the Sydney region.
“To see more than 200 athletes trial for just 44 places shows the depth of talent we have,” Fuller said.
“For those selected, it’s a significant milestone — and for those who missed out, it’s important to remember that many athletes return stronger the following year. Our pathway is built on continuous development.”
Beyond skill development and competition, Fuller said the Academy creates a unique environment of connection and community.
“What makes the Sydney Netball Academy special is the relationships these athletes form,” she said. “They train with players from across Sydney, push each other to improve, and build friendships that often last throughout their time in the pathway and beyond.”
To support the 2026 program, Netball NSW has confirmed a highly experienced coaching and leadership team. Program Head Coach Tarsha Saint (Manly Warringah) will oversee the Academy, supported by program coaches Jenny Moroney (Hills District), Alex McNeil (Illawarra District), and Jess Bowden (Baulkham Hills). The umpire development component will be led by umpire coaches Sarah Hay (Sutherland District) and Chloe Thomson (Sutherland District), while Program Manager Ashleigh Daus (Blacktown City) will oversee operations and coordination across the year.
