The Netball Rodney Preseason Development Programme returned on 23 April with its biggest turnout since before Covid, welcoming 52 players from Year 7 and above alongside 11 observing coaches.
Players threw themselves into game-sense activities designed to sharpen decision-making under pressure, with a focus on creating space in attack, supporting teammates, and building solid attacking and defensive fundamentals. The energy on court was high, with plenty of creative play and standout learning moments throughout the sessions.
Coaches Anita Nowell, Kelly Ayres, and Cara Jackson delivered the programme, grounding every session in key development principles. These included game-like learning through real match situations, maximising time on task, encouraging player ownership and leadership, and maintaining a fun, inclusive environment where athletes feel safe to try new things. A strong emphasis was also placed on safe movement, in particular landing, stopping, and turning techniques.
Observing coaches on the sideline gained firsthand insight into player-centred coaching in action, with many reporting "aha" moments that demonstrated just how powerful learning through play can be.
The programme also benefited from the expertise of NetballSmart's Amelia Pascoe, who joined players on court to share practical and engaging ways to embed safe landing and movement skills into everyday training.
NetballSmart and coach development remain central priorities for the Northern Zone, with workshops, resources, and on-court support helping coaches embed safe movement and best-practice development principles into their sessions week in, week out.
Coaches looking for support can connect with our team below here
