SCOUTING, SCREENING

AND SELECTION

In order for the Performance Pathway to be successful, we must ensure that the right athletes are selected into the system. This requires a trained workforce of talent identifiers who are educated and equipped with the right skill set and experiences to seek and identify the range of attributes and characteristics we are looking for in our athletes. We need to select athletes that we believe have the potential to not only progress up through the system, but also to develop into a world class netballer with the ability to form part of a squad capable of winning a World Cup. England Netball have an existing structure for Scouting, Screening and Selection which has been followed by Counties and Regions in recent years. This structure has recently been reviewed as part of a larger piece of work in this area. The following section of the folder explains the new structure for Scouting, Screening and Selection for the Performance Pathway, including key policies and documentation such as role descriptors. At each level of the Pathway there needs to be a workforce of ‘Selection Decision Makers’ and ‘Scouts/Nominators’. As the titles suggest, these people are responsible for identifying, selecting and deselecting athletes for the Performance Pathway. They will do this through attending a series of events and activities, some examples of which are shown in the table on the next page;

SCOUTING, SCREENING AND SELECTION INFORMATION FOR REGIONAL AND COUNTY NETBALL ASSOCIATIONS 

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PERFORMANCE PATHWAY STAGE

SELECTION DECISION MAKERS

SELECTION EVENT/ACTIVITY

SCOUTS/ NOMINATORS

SCOUTING EVENT/ACTIVITY

INTC National Selectors, England Coaching Team, INTC Coaches

●NSL MATCHES ●INTERNATIONALS ●SELECTION WKDS

NSL Head Coaches, INTC Coaches, National Selectors

●NSL ●PREMIER LEAGUE

NATIONAL ACADEMY

National Selectors, National Academy Head Coach and Assistant Coach

●NATIONAL ACADEMY SCREENING ●TRI-REGIONAL TRAINING AND MATCH DAYS ●POSITIONAL DAYS

Regional Selector, Franchise Coach, PPC

●NSL ●PREMIER LEAGUE ●NPL AND NPFL ●BUCS COMPETITIONS ●BCS COMPETITIONS ●NATIONAL SCHOOLS AND CLUBS ●OTHER SPORTS

REGIONAL PERFORMANCE ACADEMY

Regional Selector, PPC, Nominated other (eg. Franchise Coach)

●PROLONGED ACTIVITY E.G. COACHED SESSIONS ●SKILL BASED ASSESSMENTS ●GAME PLAY ●OBSERVATION AT REGIONAL ACADEMY

Regional Selector or Scout, PPC, RA Assistant Coach, Franchise Coach

●PREMIER LEAGUE ●NPL AND NPFL ●BUCS COMPETITIONS ●BCS COMPETITIONS ●NATIONAL AND REGIONAL SCHOOLS AND CLUBS ●OTHER SPORTS

REGIONAL ACADEMY

Regional Selector, PPC, Nominated other (eg. Franchise Coach)

●PROLONGED ACTIVITY E.G. COACHED SESSIONS ●SKILL BASED ASSESSMENTS ●GAME PLAY ●OBSERVATION AT COUNTY ACADEMY

Regional or County Scouts, County Selector, County Academy Head Coach

●BCS COMPETITIONS ●NATIONAL AND REGIONAL SCHOOLS AND CLUBS ●OTHER SPORTS

COUNTY ACADEMY

County Selector, County Academy Head Coach/es, Nominated other/s (eg. Key Club Coach)

●PROLONGED ACTIVITY E.G. COACHED SESSIONS, ●SKILL BASED ASSESSMENTS ●GAME PLAY ●OBSERVATION AT SATELLITE ACADEMY

County Scouts and Selector, County and Satellite Academy Head Coaches

●LOCAL AND DISTRICT SCHOOL AND CLUB COMPETITIONS ●OTHER/MULTISPORT EVENTS

SATELLITE ACADEMY

County Selector, County Academy Head Coach, Satellite Academy Head Coach

●PROLONGED ACTIVITY E.G. COACHED SESSIONS ●SKILL BASED ASSESSMENTS ●GAME PLAY

County Scouts and Trained Identifiers (e.g. Club Coaches and Teachers)

●LOCAL AND DISTRICT SCHOOL AND CLUB COMPETITIONS ●OTHER/MULTISPORT EVENTS

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NATIONAL SELECTORS: A team of 6-9 experienced and trained volunteers, accountable to England Netball through the Chair of Selectors and responsible for identifying potential athletes for National Performance Programmes and making selection and de-selections for National Programmes or International Competition. ENGLAND COACHING TEAM: Senior Coach, Development Coach and National Academy Head Coach, employed by England Netball and responsible for making selection and de-selections into National Programmes or International Competition. INTC HEAD COACHES: The Head Coaches of the three INTC’s, employed by England Netball and responsible for identifying potential athletes for National Performance Programmes and inputting into decisions on selection and de-selections into National Programmes or International Competition. NATIONAL ACADEMY HEAD COACH AND ASSISTANT COACH: Employed by England Netball and responsible for making selection and de-selections into the National Academy Programme or age group (u19/17) International Competition. PPC: Performance Pathway Coach, employed by England Netball and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the National Academy Programme and making selection and de-selections into Regional Performance Programmes (RPAs and RAs) NOMINATED OTHER (EG. FRANCHISE COACH): An experienced and knowledgeable coach who is used to working with performance athletes and appointed by the PPC or Regional Selector to support the identification and nomination of athletes for the National Academy Programme and, making selections and de-selections into Regional Performance Programmes (RPAs and RAs) REGIONAL SELECTOR: One identified, experienced and trained volunteer per region, accountable to the Regional Management Board and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the National Academy Programme and making selections and de-selections for Regional Performance Programmes. COUNTY SELECTOR: One identified, experienced and trained volunteer per county, accountable to the County Netball Association, responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Academy Programme and making selection and de-selections for County Performance Programmes. COUNTY ACADEMY HEAD COACH/ES: Appointed by the County Netball Association to act as the Head Coach of the County Academy, responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Academy and responsible for making selection and de-selections for the County Academy/ies. NOMINATED OTHER/S (EG. KEY CLUB COACH): An experienced and knowledgeable coach who is used to working with performance athletes and appointed by the County Netball Association or County Selector to support selection and de-selections decisions for County Performance Programmes. SATELLITE ACADEMY HEAD COACH/ES: Appointed by the County Netball Association to act as the Head Coach of the Satellite Academy and responsible for identifying and nominating potential

SELECTION DECISION MAKERS, SCOUTS AND NOMINATORS; ROLE INFORMATION  

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athletes for the County Academy and, for making selections and de-selections for Satellite Academies. REGIONAL SCOUT: Part of a team of identified, experienced and trained volunteers, accountable to the Regional Management Board and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Performance Programmes. COUNTY SCOUT: Part of a team of identified, experienced and trained volunteers, accountable to the County Netball Association and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the County Performance Programmes. FRANCHISE COACH: NSL or NPL Head Coach experienced and knowledgeable and used to working with performance athletes. Able to identify and nominate potential athletes for National and Regional Academy Programmes. RA ASSISTANT COACH: Appointed by the Regional Management Board to act as the Assistant Coach of the Regional Performance or Regional Academy, accountable to the Regional Management Board and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Academy Programme. TRAINED IDENTIFIERS (E.G. CLUB COACHES AND TEACHERS): Part of a team of trained volunteers responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the County Performance Programmes. It is the joint responsibility of England Netball and the Regional or County Netball Association to identify suitable individuals for the following positions; Regional Selector x 1 Regional Scouts x X (number appropriate to the size and demographic of the region) County Selector x 1 County Scouts x X (number appropriate to the size and demographic of the county) There may be individuals that are already occupying these positions and undertaking the associated responsibilities within the county or region, which is fantastic. Their suitability for the roles should be considered alongside the new Role Descriptors however, which are available on the next page. There are currently workshops being developed and piloted to support the education and training of these roles and the others listed on the previous pages. The details of these will be communicated to Regional and County Netball Associations once they are ready for delivery. In this interim period please use as much of the information included on these pages as possible for the Scouting, Screening and Selection of athletes into your Regional and County Performance Programmes.

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REGIONAL SELECTOR

ROLE DESCRIPTION

REPORT TO: Regional Performance Lead / Regional Management Board KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

In association with the Performance Pathway Coach (PPC) establish, develop and oversee the selection and de-selection of athletes for the Regional Performance Programme, in accordance with England Netball Guidelines and the Regional Performance Programme Selection Policy and Procedure. This includes providing written feedback to athletes not selected.

Work with PPC to give consideration in selection of players to attend National Screening.

Regularly attend the Regional Academy and Regional Performance Academy sessions to ensure familiarity of the athletes in the programme and the required standard for any new athletes.

Where possible, attend Tri-Regional and National Performance Pathway events to benchmark athletes in the Regional Performance Programme with others nationally

Work with the PPC and Regional Performance Working Group to establish and manage a timetable of Regional Performance Programme Selection Events

Identify and support a number of Regional Scouts and provide their contact details to England Netball for training and communication purposes

Follow the guidance of England Netball to identify and manage a timetable of Scouting opportunities across the region and appoint Regional Scouts to attend these.

Attend England Netball Regional Selector Training Events.

Ensure confidentiality on all matters discussed and observed relating to selection and an objectivity in assessment of individual players by remaining neutral in decision-making and open-minded to the opinion of others. Where necessary, selectors must declare a conflict of interest as laid out in the Selection Policy

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PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

A Regional Selector must be well organised

A Regional Selector should demonstrate evidence of having an impact on players that have progressed to the next level of the Performance Pathway.

A Regional Selector has demonstrated evidence of identifying potential and ability in athletes at an identified stage of development.

A Regional Selector has evidence of scouting athletes

A Regional Selector has knowledge of the current international game.

A Regional Selector has knowledge of the EN performance principles and philosophy

A Regional Selector can communicate with coaches, other selectors and athletes on their observation and analysis.

Signed:…………………………………………………….. Date: ……………………………

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REGIONAL SCOUT

ROLE DESCRIPTION REPORT TO: Regional Selector / Regional Performance Lead KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Upon the request of the Regional Selector, attend various ‘Regional Scouting Events’ to identify athletes to be nominated for ‘Regional Selection Events’. Regional Scouting Events may include; Premier League Competitions, NPL and NPFL Competitions, BUCS and BCS Competitions, National and Regional Rounds of School and Club Competitions and other sports and multisport events.

Occasionally attend Regional Academy and Regional Performance Academy sessions to ensure familiarity of athletes in the Regional Performance Programme and the required attributes of any new athletes.

Attend England Netball Regional Scout Training Events and keep up-to-date with information distributed by England Netball in this area.

.

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

A Regional Scout can demonstrate evidence of having an impact on players that have progressed in the Performance Pathway.

A Regional Scout has demonstrated evidence of identifying potential and ability in athletes at an identified stage of development.

A Regional Scout has evidence of scouting athletes

A Regional Scout has knowledge of the current international game.

A Regional Scout has knowledge of the EN performance principles and philosophy

Signed:…………………………………………………….. Date: ……………………………

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COUNTY SELECTOR ROLE DESCRIPTION

REPORT TO: County Performance Lead / County Netball Association KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

In association with the County Academy Head Coach/es, Satellite Academy Head Coach/es and an ‘Appointed other’ (as appropriate to Guidelines) establish, develop and oversee the selection and de-selection of athletes for the County Performance Programme, in accordance with England Netball Guidelines and the County Performance Programme Selection Policy and Procedure. This includes providing written feedback to athletes not selected.

Work with the County Academy Head Coach/es, and an ‘Appointed other’ to give consideration in selection of players to attend Regional Performance Programme Screening events.

Regularly attend the County and Satellite Academy to ensure familiarity of the athlete in the programme and the required standard for any new athletes.

Where possible, attend Regional events to benchmark athletes in the other County Performance Programmes with own County’s athletes

Where possible, attend Regional Performance Programmes to benchmark athletes in the County Performance Programmes with Regional Performance Programme athletes.

Work with the County Head Coach/es and County Performance Working Group to establish and manage a timetable of County Performance Programme Selection Events

Identify and support a number of County Scouts and provide their contact details to England Netball for training and communication purposes

Follow the guidance of England Netball to identify and manage a timetable of Scouting opportunities across the County and appoint County Scouts to attend these.

Attend England Netball County Selector Training Events.

Ensure confidentiality on all matters discussed and observed relating to selection and an objectivity in assessment of individual players by remaining neutral in decision-making and open-minded to the opinion of others. Where necessary, selectors must declare a conflict of interest as laid out in the Selection Policy

Personal Requirements

A County Selector must be well organised

A County Selector can demonstrate evidence of having an impact on players that have progressed to the next level of the Performance Pathway.

A County Selector has demonstrated evidence of identifying potential and ability in athletes at an identified stage of development.

A County Selector has evidence of scouting athletes

A County Selector has knowledge of the current international game.

A County Selector has knowledge of the EN performance principles and philosophy

A County Selector can communicate with coaches, other selectors and athletes on their observation and analysis.

Signed:…………………………………………………….. Date: ……………………………

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COUNTY SCOUT

ROLE DESCRIPTION REPORT TO: County Selector / County Performance Lead KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Upon the request of the County Selector, attend various ‘County Scouting Events’ to identify athletes to be nominated for ‘County Selection Events’. County Scouting Events may include; local and district school and club competitions and other sport and multisport events.

Occasionally attend County and Satellite Academy sessions to ensure familiarity of athletes in the County Performance Programme and the required attributes of any new athletes.

Attend England Netball County Scout Training Events and keep up-to-date with information distributed by England Netball in this area.

.

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

A County Scout can demonstrate evidence of having an impact on players that have progressed in the Performance Pathway.

A County Scout has demonstrated evidence of identifying potential and ability in athletes at an identified stage of development.

A County Scout has evidence of scouting athletes

A County Scout has knowledge of the current international game.

A County Scout has the knowledge of the EN performance principles and philosophy

Signed:…………………………………………………….. Date: ……………………………

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When deciding upon selections and de-selections for Regional and County Performance Programmes the following Selection Policies should be followed and strictly adhered to.

DEFINITIONS ACADEMY PROGRAMMES; The programmes delivered in the mid to lower reaches of the Performance Pathway for athletes under 20 years of age (Satellite, Regional, Regional, Regional Performance and National Academies) REGIONAL ACADEMY ASSISTANT COACH; Appointed by the Regional Management Board to act as the Assistant Coach of the Regional Performance or Regional Academy. Accountable to the Regional Management Board and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Academy Programme. PERFORMANCE PATHWAY COACH; Performance Pathway Coach, employed by England Netball and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the National Academy Programme and making selection and de-selections into Regional Performance Programmes (RPAs and RAs) REGIONAL ACADEMY; A weekly (between 2-8 hours) individualised training environment for athletes usually aged between 14-17, delivered year round REGIONAL PERFORMANCE ACADEMY; A weekly (between 6-10 hours) individualised training environment for athletes usually aged between 16-19, delivered year round REGIONAL NETBALL ASSOCIATION (RNA); An autonomous member’s organisation, affiliated to England Netball. Where an agreement exists, RNAs act as the Performance Pathway delivery partner to England Netball for the Regional Performance Programmes REGIONAL PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME SELECTION EVENT OR ACTIVITY; An event or activity whereby an athlete can be observed by a Selection Panel to make an assessment on their suitability to enter, remain or move up the Performance Pathway. This event or activity may take a variety of different forms. REGIONAL PERFORMANCE PROGRAMMES; England Netball directed Regional and Regional Performance Academy Programmes REGIONAL SCOUTS; A team of identified, experienced and trained volunteers, accountable to the Regional Management Board and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Performance Programmes. REGIONAL SELECTOR; One identified, experienced and trained volunteer per region, accountable to the Regional Management Board and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the National Academy Programme and making selections and de-selections for Regional Performance Programmes. ENGLAND NETBALL; Netball’s Governing Body, funded by Sport England to deliver a Performance Pathway capable of developing and generating World Class Senior Athletes NOMINATORS; A group of identified and trained individuals responsible for nominating athletes to attend a Regional Performance Programme selection event or activity, normally consisting of the Regional Selector, Regional Scouts, Performance Pathway Coach, Regional Academy and Regional Performance Academy Assistant Coaches and Regional Academy Head Coaches SELECTION DECISION MAKERS; The group responsible for making decisions at a Regional Performance Programmes selection event or activity, normally consisting of the Regional Selector, Performance Pathway Coach and an appointed other, normally a Franchise Coach. There will always be an odd number of Selection Decision Makers to ensure voting cannot be tied.

REGIONAL NETBALL ASSOCATION PERFORMANCE PROGRAMMES SELECTION POLICY ISSUED: MARCH 2014

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PERFORMANCE MISSION

England Netball aspires to become World Netball Champions by 2019. To achieve that goal we must collectively develop more world class athletes who can function as a world leading team. This aspiration provides the beacon to guide all Performance activity and decision-making, including the management of the selection and development of athletes within the High Performance and Academy Programmes.

1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 The Regional Netball Association Selection Policy is inclusive of identification and selection across the Regional Performance Programmes (Regional and Regional Performance Academies and associated activity).

1.2 The Selection Policy and the associated procedures will be transparent and accessible at all times. The Policy and Procedures will be widely communicated and adhered to and, made available to all members of the regional Netball Association. The Policy will be available on the Regional websites at all times, and directly to all athletes entering the selection process.

2. PRINCIPLES OF SELECTION

2.1 The Regional Selection Policy and Procedures will be equitable. No athlete will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of social class, colour, race, ethnic origin, creed or disability, or will be disadvantaged by conditions or requirements that cannot be shown to be relevant to performance. 2.2 The Regional Selection Policy and Procedures will be consistent. At all times the provisions of the Policy and Procedures will be applied consistently and rigorously. It is the responsibility of the Regional Netball Association to ensure this. The Regional Netball Association may delegate this responsibility in writing to the Regional Selector.

2.3 The purpose of the Regional Selection Policy and Procedures is to ensure that the right athletes can be selected onto the England Netball Performance Pathway and provided with training through the Academy Programmes to fulfil their individual potential, which may be reaching the top tiers of the Performance Pathway and achieving selection to represent England at age group or senior level. 2.4 The Performance Pathway Selection Process is open at every level. This means that new athletes may be invited into a Performance Programme at any time if correct procedures are followed. The procedures for Regional Performance Programme Selection are outlined in detail under paragraph 5 below. 2.5 The selection of athletes into Regional Performance Programmes shall be determined by a panel of Decision Makers and Regional Performance Programmes shall consist of the number of athletes

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the selectors deem appropriate, in direct relation to the number of England Netball recognised Regional and Regional Performance Academies they deliver.

2.6 No Athlete has the right or expectation to on-going selection, at any time.

3. SELECTION PANELS 3.1 The Selection Panel for Regional Performance Programmes will consist of the following, known as the Decision Makers; Regional Academy; Regional Selector, Performance Pathway Coach, Appointed Other (x1) Regional Performance Academy; Regional Selector, Performance Pathway Coach, Appointed Other (x1)

3.2 In making final selections into the Regional Performance Programmes, the Decision Makers, of which there should always be an odd number, will have an equal vote.

4. DE-SELECTION AND ATHLETE WITHDRAWAL 4.1 Athletes selected into a Regional Performance Programme will be able to access a range of training opportunities through their Academy as determined by the England Netball Performance Pathway Programme training syllabus. 4.2 The ongoing failure of any athlete to meet training requirements could result in de-selection. This shall be decided by the same Selection Panel outlined under paragraph 3. 4.3 An athlete may choose to withdraw from a Regional Performance Programme voluntarily. Such a withdrawal must be done in writing to the Performance Pathway Coach, Regional Selector or Regional Netball Association directly.

5. THE SELECTION PROCESS 5.1 Athletes will be identified and nominated for Regional Performance Programme Selection by one of the following possible Nominators;

Regional Academy; County Selector, Regional or County Scouts, County Academy Head Coaches

Regional Performance Academy; Regional Selector, Regional Scouts, Performance Pathway Coach, Regional Academy Assistant Coach

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5.2 Athletes will be invited to attend a Regional Performance Programme Selection event or activity by the Regional Performance Working Group or a nominated member of this group. A minimum of 2 weeks’ notice of this event or activity will be provided to the athlete. Selection events or activities will happen on a minimum of 3 occasions, spread throughout the programme year. 5.3 All athletes involved in the selection process will be informed of their individual selection outcome in writing (either electronically and/or by letter) by the Regional Performance Working Group who will have been informed of the Selection Panel’s decisions by the Regional Selector. Any unsuccessful athletes will receive a short paragraph of written feedback by the Regional Selector to aid their development and chance of future selection. 5.4 At any time, any athlete involved in the selection process may seek further clarification from the Regional Selector or another member of the Selection Panel.

6. GRIEVANCE AND APPEALS PROCESS 6.1 There are only two grounds for appeal within the Regional Performance Programmes Selection Policy and Processes. These are;

Selection was not made according to the Selection Policy

There was unreasonable bias or conflict of interest against an athlete in more than one member of the Selection Panel.

6.2 Any appeal against a selection decision for a Regional Performance Programme must in the first instance be referred in writing to the Regional Performance Working Group. Any appeal against a selection decision that cannot be resolved by communication with the Regional Performance Working Group may be referred to the Regional Netball Association. If a resolution cannot be found, the appeal may be escalated to the Performance Department at England Netball. England Netball will decide only if the selection decision should stand or, if another opportunity to attend a Regional Performance Programme Selection event or activity should be made available to the athlete by the Regional Netball Association. England Netball’s decision on any appeal is final.

APPENDICES SELECTION CRITERIA When selecting athletes for the England Netball Performance Pathway at any level, the Selection Panel shall apply the core playing competencies, personal qualities and other considerations listed below;

CORE PLAYING COMPETENCIES:

Sound skill base and consistency of performance on court according to the technical requirements set out for all athletes

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Displays tactical understanding and has established consistency in making appropriate decisions in demanding situations

Shows ability to use flair and innovation in their game

Can sustain intensity in performance throughout game

Shows the potential skills and capabilities to represent England at the highest level.

CORE PERSONAL QUALITIES:

Leadership - leads by example and is a role model for others

Resilience – mental toughness, bounces back after adversity, perseveres and adapts

Self-awareness – emotional intelligence, composure under pressure

Self-responsibility – motivated, compliant and demonstrates ability to manage all aspects of being an elite Athlete

Work ethic – is driven and committed to developing and maintaining the competencies required to be a world class England Athlete; can sustain intensity, shows consistency and is disciplined on and off court

Demonstrates P.R.I.D.E. Personal Responsibility in Delivering Excellence

CONSIDERATION MAY ALSO BE GIVEN TO THE FOLLOWING FACTORS:

Coachability – understands expectations and can apply learning and make changes

Demonstrates ‘team’ qualities and ‘fit’ within the team

State of fitness, health and wellbeing

Succession planning

Whether an athletes’ performance and/or contribution has been affected by extenuating circumstances such as illness, injury, bereavement, work/study commitments or similar which have temporarily compromised their form and/or recent contribution.

Consideration may also be given to any other such factors that the Selection Panel considers in its sole discretion to be relevant and appropriate to the overall assessment of a particular athlete.

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DEFINITIONS

ACADEMY PROGRAMMES; The programmes delivered in the mid to lower reaches of the Performance Pathway for athletes under 20 years of age (Satellite, County, Regional, Regional Performance and National Academies) COUNTY ACADEMY ASSISTANT COACH; Qualified coach appointed by the County Netball Association to support the delivery of the County Academy Programme, directed by England Netball COUNTY ACADEMY HEAD COACH; Appointed by the County Netball Association to act as the Head Coach of the County Academy, responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Academy and responsible for making selection and de-selections for the County Academy/ies. COUNTY ACADEMY; A weekly individualised training environment for athletes usually aged between 14-16, delivered between September and May. COUNTY NETBALL ASSOCIATION (CNA); An autonomous member’s organisation, affiliated to England Netball. Where an agreement exists, CNAs act as the Performance Pathway delivery partner to England Netball for the County’s Performance Programmes COUNTY PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME SELECTION EVENT OR ACTIVITY; An event or activity whereby an athlete can be observed by a Selection Panel to make an assessment on their suitability to enter, remain or move up the Performance Pathway. This event or activity may take a variety of different forms COUNTY PERFORMANCE PROGRAMMES; England Netball directed County and Satellite Academy Programmes COUNTY SCOUTS; A team of identified, experienced and trained volunteers, accountable to the County Netball Association and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the County Performance Programmes COUNTY SELECTOR; One identified, experienced and trained volunteer per county, accountable to the County Netball Association, responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the Regional Academy Programme and making selection and de-selections for County Performance Programmes. ENGLAND NETBALL; Netball’s Governing Body, funded by Sport England to deliver a Performance Pathway capable of developing and generating World Class Senior Athletes NOMINATORS; A group of identified and trained individuals responsible for nominating athletes to attend a County Performance Programmes selection event or activity, normally consisting of the County Selector, County Scouts, County Academy Head Coach, Satellite Academy Head Coach and Trained Identifiers SATELLITE ACADEMY HEAD COACH; Appointed by the County Netball Association to act as the Head Coach of the Satellite Academy and responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the County Academy and, for making selections and de-selections for Satellite Academies. SATELLITE ACADEMY; A fortnightly individualised training environment for athletes usually aged between 11-14, delivered between September and April. SELECTION DECISION MAKERS; The group responsible for making decisions at a County Performance Programmes selection event or activity, normally consisting of the County Selector and Programme Head Coaches. There will always be an odd number of Selection Decision Makers to ensure voting cannot be tied. TRAINED IDENTIFIERS; (e.g. Club Coaches and Teachers) - Part of a team of trained volunteers responsible for identifying and nominating potential athletes for the County Performance Programmes.

COUNTY NETBALL ASSOCATION PERFORMANCE PROGRAMMES SELECTION POLICY

ISSUED: MARCH 2014

 

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PERFORMANCE MISSION

England Netball aspires to become World Netball Champions by 2019. To achieve that goal we must collectively develop more world class Athletes who can function as a world leading team. This aspiration provides the beacon to guide all Performance activity and decision- making, including the management of the selection to, and development of Athletes within the High Performance and Academy Programmes.

1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 The County Netball Association Selection Policy is inclusive of identification and selection across the County Performance Programmes (Satellite and County Academies and associated activity).

1.2 The Selection Policy and the associated procedures will be transparent and accessible. At all times the Policy and Procedures will be widely communicated and adhered to and, made available to all members of the County Netball Association. The Policy will be available on the county websites at all times, and directly to all athletes entering the selection process.

2. PRINCIPLES OF SELECTION

2.1 The County Selection Policy and Procedures will be equitable. No athlete will receive less favourable treatment on the grounds of social class, colour, race, ethnic origin, creed or disability, or will be disadvantaged by conditions or requirements that cannot be shown to be relevant to performance. 2.2 The County Selection Policy and Procedures will be consistent. At all times the provisions of the Policy and Procedures will be applied consistently and rigorously. It is the responsibility of the County Netball Association to ensure this. The County Netball Association may delegate this responsibility in writing to the County Selector.

2.3 The purpose of the County Selection Policy and Procedures is to ensure that the right athletes can be selected onto the England Netball Performance Pathway and provided with training through the Academy Programmes to fulfil their individual potential, which may be reaching the top tiers of the Performance Pathway and achieving selection to represent England at age group or senior level. 2.4 The Performance Pathway Selection Process is open at every level. This means that new athletes may be invited into a Performance Programme at any time if correct procedures are followed. The procedures for County Performance Programme Selection are outlined in detail under paragraph 5 below. 2.5 The selection of athletes into County Performance Programmes shall be determined by a panel of Decision Makers and County Performance Programmes shall consist of the number of athletes the selectors deem appropriate, in direct relation to the number of England Netball recognised Satellite and County Academies they deliver.

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2.6 No Athlete has the right or expectation to on-going selection, at any time.

3. SELECTION PANELS 3.1 The Selection Panel for County Performance Programmes will consist of the following, known as the Decision Makers; County Academy; County Selector, County Academy Head Coach, County Academy Assistant Coach (x1) Satellite Academy; County Selector, County Academy Head Coach, Satellite Academy Head Coach

3.2 In making final selections into the County Performance Programmes, the Decision Makers, of which there should always be an odd number, will have an equal vote.

4. DE-SELECTION AND ATHLETE WITHDRAWAL 4.1 Athletes selected into a County Performance Programme will be able to access a range of training opportunities through their Academy as determined by the England Netball Performance Pathway Programme training syllabus. 4.2 The ongoing failure of any athlete to meet training requirements could result in de-selection. This shall be decided by the same Selection Panel outlined under paragraph 3. 4.3 An athlete may choose to withdraw from a County Performance Programme voluntarily. Such a withdrawal must be done in writing to the Head Coach, County Selector or County Netball Association directly.

5. THE SELECTION PROCESS 5.1 Athletes will be identified and nominated for County Performance Programme Selection by one of the following possible Nominators (see Definitions);

County Academy; County Selector, County Scouts, County Academy Head Coach, Satellite Academy Head Coach

Satellite Academy; County Scouts and Trained Identifiers 5.2 Athletes will be invited to attend a County Performance Programme Selection event or activity by the County Performance Working Group or a nominated member of this group. A minimum of 2 weeks notice of this event or activity will be provided to the athlete. Selection events or activities will happen on a minimum of 3 occasions, spread throughout the programme year.

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5.3 All athletes involved in the selection process will be informed of their individual selection outcome in writing (either electronically and/or by letter) by the County Performance Working Group who will have been informed of the Selection Panel’s decisions by the County Selector. Any unsuccessful athletes will receive a short paragraph of written feedback by the County Selector to aid their development and chance of future selection. 5.4 At any time, any athlete involved in the selection process may seek further clarification from the County Selector or another member of the Selection Panel.

6. GRIEVANCE AND APPEALS PROCESS 6.1 There are only two grounds for appeal within the County Performance Programmes Selection Policy and Processes. These are;

Selection was not made according to the Selection Policy

There was unreasonable bias or conflict of interest against an athlete in more than one member of the Selection Panel.

6.2 Any appeal against a selection decision into a County Performance Programme must in the first instance be referred in writing to the County Performance Working Group. Any appeal against a selection decision that cannot be resolved by communication with the County Performance Working Group may be referred to the County Netball Association. If a resolution cannot be found, the appeal may be escalated to the Performance Department at England Netball. England Netball will decide only if the selection decision should stand or, if another opportunity to attend a County Performance Programme Selection event or activity should be made available to the athlete by the County Netball Association. England Netball’s decision on any appeal is final.

APPENDICES SELECTION CRITERIA When selecting athletes for the England Netball Performance Pathway, at any level the Selection Panel shall apply the core playing competencies, personal qualities and other considerations listed below;

CORE PLAYING COMPETENCIES:

Sound skill base and consistency of performance on court according to the technical requirements set out for all Athletes

Displays tactical understanding and has established consistency in making appropriate decisions in demanding situations

Shows ability to use flair and innovation in their game

Can sustain intensity in performance throughout game

Shows the potential skills and capabilities to represent England at the highest level.

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CORE PERSONAL QUALITIES:

Leadership - leads by example and is a role model for others

Resilience – mental toughness, bounces back after adversity, perseveres and adapts

Self-awareness – emotional intelligence, composure under pressure

Self-responsibility – motivated, compliant and demonstrates ability to manage all aspects of being an elite Athlete

Work ethic – is driven and committed to developing and maintaining the competencies required to be a world class England Athlete; can sustain intensity, shows consistency and is disciplined on and off court

Demonstrates P.R.I.D.E. Personal Responsibility in Delivering Excellence

CONSIDERATION MAY ALSO BE GIVEN TO THE FOLLOWING FACTORS:

Coachability – understands expectations and can apply learning and make changes

Demonstrates ‘team’ qualities and ‘fit’ within the team

State of fitness, health and wellbeing

Succession planning

Whether an athlete’s performance and/or contribution has been affected by extenuating circumstances such as illness, injury, bereavement, work/study commitments or similar which have temporarily compromised their form and/or recent contribution.

Consideration may also be given to any other such factors that the Selection Panel considers in its sole discretion to be relevant and appropriate to the overall assessment of a particular player.

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The following lists should help to focus your attention on the key traits we need to be looking for and developing in our athletes for each area of the court.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN OUR DEFENDERS?

- Tall; rangy - Ability to jump - Always in the game; relentless,

resilient - Turns ball over fearlessly - Understands the circle; switching - Street wise - Know how to push the rules to the

boundaries - Game smart; understand tactics. - Deceptive - Ever present - Strong/powerful

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN OUR SHOOTERS?

95% + shooting accuracy Fearless when putting up a shot

from anywhere, against whoever, at whatever stage in the game.

Wants the ball Quick and effective change of

direction Good elevation Good range (length of arms) Tall Ability to get free Good timing Character – individually focussed

OUR ATHLETES

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WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN OUR CENTRE COURT ATHLETES?

Speed and Change of Direction. Ball Skills: breadth and depth e.g.

long ball off left hand; offload in air etc.

Strong; able to contest on circle edge.

Resilience against continuous pressure.

Vision. Understanding and use of space. Strong attacking and defending skills. Relentless; go, go again, go again.

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