A trio of Netball Queensland (NQ) staff joined 11 athletes from the Sunshine State at the camp, held at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS).
NQ Officials Development Lead Claire Kleinschmidt made a notable contribution to the camp as an umpire for the international match between the Australian 19/U squad and a New Zealand schoolgirls invitational team.
Others to attend the camp included Athletic Performance Coach Rhett Cope, who provided his expertise to assist AIS staff with key testing and performance measures.
NQ Emerging Athlete Program head Jess Whitfort, who’ll coach the Firebirds Futures team at next month’s Australian Netball Championships, was the other staff member to attend the camp as a lead coach with the 17/U squad.
“Claire’s involvement as an umpire in such a high-profile game speaks volumes about the recognition of her skills and expertise within the netball community,” Whitfort said.
"Meanwhile Rhett’s presence and contributions were appreciated, as he played a significant role in ensuring that the athletes received the best possible guidance to enhance their skills and performance levels.
“My involvement showcases NQ’s dedication to contributing to the development of young talent and fostering their growth within netball.”
Among the Queensland athletes who participated in the camp was goaler Elsa Sif Sandholt – a member of the 19/U squad.
“The environment was truly high performance based, pushing you to test yourself and step out of your comfort zone,” Sandholt said.
“But also inspiring – I walked out wanting to continue to grow as much as I could. It’s like a switch in your brain that flicks on and I just can’t seem to turn it off.”
Whitfort congratulated the young Queensland talent who attended the camp, expressing her belief their experiences will benefit themselves and others within NQ’s Emerging Athlete Program.
"We were very proud of the performance our athletes were able to put out on court, as well as their engagement in all activities and education provided at the camp,” Whitfort said.
“With a huge focus on recovery, nutrition, wellbeing, and performance preparation, our athletes have returned with an insight into what it takes to reach the pinnacle of netball in Australia."
