The Young Netball Association is making big strides this season not only with growing player numbers, but also with a renewed focus on coach development and community engagement.
One of the standout initiatives this month is a Netball Australia-endorsed coaching development workshop, designed to equip aspiring coaches with the skills and accreditation needed to guide teams through local competitions and major representative events like junior and senior state titles.
“This is the pathway for anyone looking to become a qualified coach,” said Rachel Douglas, President of the Young Netball Association. “You start with the online Foundation Course, then complete a Development Course online as well. The final step is a In person workshop, which runs for around six hours and gives coaches the hands-on training they need.”
Rachel explained that the program isn’t just for current players or committee members anyone with a passion for netball and supporting local athletes can get involved. “It’s open to anyone with an interest in netball and a desire to help grow the sport, whether you’re coaching juniors or seniors.”
The recent face-to-face session hosted in Young marks the second time the town has offered the in-person component, and it’s drawing interest from far beyond the local region. “Last year we had people travel from Blacktown, Bathurst, and even Tumut,” Rachel said. “It’s a great sign of how much the sport is thriving.”
The coaching focus is just one part of a packed calendar for Young Netball. With a fresh committee bringing in “positivity, energy, and new ideas,” as Rachel described it, the club is heading into its finals series for juniors and intermediates, set to conclude by August 18. To keep things fun and community-driven, themed days like “Crazy Hair and Socks” are sprinkled throughout the calendar, often tied to fundraising efforts.
“We use these days to support important causes gold coin donations go toward ‘Netball Nephiles’ which raises money for kids with cancer,” Rachel said.
Beyond finals, there’s still plenty on the horizon. Representative team trials are scheduled for August 24, and the highly anticipated Cherry Festival Carnival is set for November 1st and 2nd, a two-day netball showcase that draws teams from across the region. Looking ahead to the warmer months, the Spring Competition kicks off on October 13, welcoming players of all ages and genders.
“It’s for everyone from our littlest juniors right up to seniors, with mixed, boys’, girls’, men’s and women’s teams all welcome,” said Rachel. And for the more seasoned players, there’s even a trip to the Masters Tournament in Wollongong planned for October 11th and 12th.
“It’s non-stop at the moment,” Rachel laughed. “But it’s great. Netball keeps us busy, keeps us out of trouble and most importantly, keeps our community connected.”
– Liam Stuart
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