The focus of the Netball Queensland Pathway is to identify and develop athletes who have the potential to play at Super Netball level in the future. Identifying these athletes will occur across a number of settings. The development process is centered around the Queensland Firebirds Futures Academy.
The first major talent identification event is the State Titles. This competition is for 16u and 18u athletes selected from across Queensland. From these titles, the Queensland 17u and 19u squads are selected to participate in the National Netball Championships. (NNC)
The NNC provides two key opportunities for identified athletes:
- Selection by Netball Australia into an Australian Youth Squad (17u and 19u)
- Selection by Netball Queensland into the Qld Firebirds Futures Academy (QFFA)
Academy performances along with quality play in the Hart Premier League can then lead to selection in the Firebirds Futures to participate in the Super Netball reserves competition. These performances can also lead to involvement with the Firebirds as a Training Partner.
Once a player has a professional contract with the Firebirds, they will play in the Suncorp Super Netball competition. This is the best professional league in the World and the best pathway to Diamonds selection.
It is important to remember that the performance pathway can be very different for different athletes. Athletes can develop at varying levels and it is important to be patient, develop resilience and become the best you can be.