The journey through the elite netball pathway will continue for 21 young athletes who have been named as part of the 2022 Central Coast Academy of Sport Greater Bank Netball Program.
After a series of trials that got underway last December, the squad was finalised in early February and will now train fortnightly under the watchful eye of Head Coach, Jess Morgan, as they prepare for their first major tournament of the season, the Your Local Club Academy Games to be held in Wagga Wagga in April.
The Academy’s netball program aligns with the Netball NSW Athlete Pathway Framework and features on court skills training, fitness, and athlete education. It also plays a vital role in identifying, monitoring, and developing the skills of young netballers.
The 2022 Squad is: Jeorgia Bourke, Jade Downs, Tenaya Emery, Ella Flaus, Jayda Grant, Keisha Hudson, Ella Jessen, Libby Johnston, Amelia Plaister, Ellie McCaughan, Charlotte Neal, Gabrielle Nicholls, Maraea Paea, Imogen Pink, Tahnee Potter, Allie Reid, Anabelle Ross, Charlotte Rousell, Emily Sanders, Shayla Walker and Grace Walsh.
Jess Morgan said that squad was full of enthusiasm heading into the program after enduring two interrupted seasons.
“The new members of the squad have brought a great energy to the sessions, which we are all feeding off. It’s also great to see a number of athletes return to the program looking to get in a full season of training and tournament play,” Jess said.
“We have some great talent in this year’s squad, and we look forward to seeing them take some significant strides in terms of their development with the aim of preparing them for further representative honours.”
Jess Morgan, CCAS Head Coach - Greater Bank Netball Program
Also returning this season is long-time program partner, Greater Bank, who recently recommitted their sponsorship of the CCAS for a further three years.
Community Engagement Manager, Ingrid Kaczor, said the organisation continues to be impressed by the dedication and achievements of all involved in the program, which was the key in their decision to extend the partnership.
“COVID presented the Central Coast Academy of Sport with many challenges over the last two years and there was an incredible amount of work that went in to adjust the programs and ensure the athletes could continue their progression in the sport,” Ingrid said.
“Everyone involved in the programs, including coaches, administrators and, of course, the athletes have demonstrated wonderful dedication and commitment to their sports, which inspired us to once again link with the netball program for a further three years.
“Our ongoing partnership will not only provide financial support for the netball program, but we will also be conducting financial literacy education sessions in association with the University of Newcastle that will assist the athletes in their personal development off the court.”
Beyond the Your Local Club Academy Games, the squad will also travel to Port Macquarie in September to take part in the Greater Bank Academy Challenge.