Netball NSW hosted an incredible weekend of netball at Netball Central for the 2026 Academy Camp, bringing together emerging athletes, umpire athletes and coaches from the Regional Academies of Sport across New South Wales for two full days of development, inspiration and competition.
On Saturday, more than 350 athletes and 100 coaches participated in a full program of on-court and off-court sessions across Netball Central, Quay Centre, and the Sydney Olympic Park Hockey Centre, with every space buzzing with activity. Athletes had the opportunity to refine their skills, learn from expert coaches, and engage in workshops designed to enhance both their technical and tactical knowledge.
Participants were also inspired by appearances from GIANTS Netball Captain Whitney Souness and home-grown talent Hope White, who shared their personal stories and insights, encouraging athletes to believe in their own pathway in the sport.
A highlight of the day was the introduction of the 17U and 19U State Team athletes to the Regional Academies of Sport cohort. Hundreds of athletes cheered for players who progressed through their own academies and associations.
While the State Teams were training, over 40 coaches from the Targeted Coach Group and Coaching Edge Program observed and participated in learning sessions. The camp also celebrated the achievement of 12 umpire athletes across the state who were awarded their National C Badge, highlighting the ongoing development of officials within the Netball NSW pathway.
Sunday featured a full day of competition, with 72 games played, providing Academy athletes their first look at the 2026 season ahead.
Netball NSW State Performance & Pathways Manager, Georgia Fuller said the Academy Camp continues to play a vital role in developing the next generation of netball talent across the state.
“The Academy Camp is a fantastic opportunity to bring together emerging athletes, coaches and umpire athletes from across New South Wales and provide them with a high-performance environment to continue developing their skills,” Fuller said.
“Seeing our Regional Academies of Sport athletes connecting with players who have progressed through the same pathway and are now representing New South Wales was a powerful moment. It reinforces what is possible through the pathway and the opportunities that exist within our sport.”
Netball NSW continues to see the Academy Camp grow each year, reflecting the strength and depth of the pathway for athletes, coaches and umpires across the state.
The athletes will next come together for the 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games in Tamworth from 17–19 April, where the state’s Regional Academies of Sport programs will compete and continue their development within the Netball NSW pathway.
