Whether your child is new to netball or already playing club and school netball, the Foundation Program provides the perfect platform for long-term development.
Who Is The Foundation Program For?
The Foundation Program is designed for athletes approximately 8–11 years of age who are:
- New to netball
- Developing confidence in the game
- Looking to improve their skills and understanding
- Preparing to progress into Development-level programs
- Seeking additional coaching alongside club or school netball
- No representative experience is required.
Athletes are encouraged to learn, explore, make mistakes, and develop in a positive environment where effort and improvement are valued.
Why Foundations Matter
Strong foundations create better athletes. Rather than focusing on short-term success, the Foundation Program focuses on teaching athletes the fundamental skills and movement patterns that support long-term development.
By developing sound technique early, athletes build the confidence and competence required to continue progressing as they move through the NQNA pathway. Our focus is not simply on creating better players today, but on helping athletes become better players for years to come.
What Athletes Will Learn
Throughout the 9-week program, athletes will progressively develop their understanding and execution of key netball skills.
Movement Fundamentals - Athletes learn how to move efficiently, safely, and confidently on court. Areas include:
- Balance and coordination
- Agility and change of direction
- Starting and stopping
- Landing mechanics
- Body control
- Spatial awareness
Ball Skills - Developing confidence and consistency with the ball. Areas include:
- Catching
- Passing
- Ball handling
- Passing accuracy
- Timing and connection
- Decision making
Footwork - One of the most important skills in netball. Athletes learn:
- Landing correctly
- Outside Turns
- Direction changes
- Attacking movement
- Defensive movement
- Understanding footwork rules
Attack & Defence Fundamentals - Understanding both sides of the game. Athletes learn:
- Creating space
- Leading and re-offering
- Defending effectively
- Contesting possession
- Transitioning between attack and defence
Game Understanding - Building confidence through understanding. Athletes begin to learn:
- Basic netball principles
- Court positioning
- Teamwork and communication
- Decision making
- Reading simple game situations
More Than Just Netball Skills
At NQNA, we believe netball is a vehicle for developing great people. Throughout the Foundation Program, athletes are encouraged to develop:
- Confidence
- Resilience
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Positive habits
- Growth mindset
These skills support success both on and off the court.
A Structured 9-Week Curriculum
Unlike many clinics or casual development programs, the Foundation Program follows a carefully designed curriculum that builds progressively throughout the term. Each week introduces new concepts while reinforcing previously learned skills, allowing athletes to develop confidence through repetition and success. This structured approach ensures athletes are continually challenged while remaining supported throughout their development journey.
Delivered By Experienced Coaches
Foundation athletes are coached by experienced NQNA coaches who understand the importance of creating positive learning experiences while maintaining high coaching standards. Our coaches focus on:
- Encouragement and confidence building
- Age-appropriate learning
- Skill development
- Athlete engagement
- Creating a love for the game
Every athlete is supported to learn at their own pace while being challenged to continually improve.
The First Step In The NQNA Pathway
The Foundation Program is the starting point of the NQNA athlete development pathway. Athletes who demonstrate appropriate skill development, game understanding, and readiness may progress into:
- Development Programs
- Specialist Clinics
- Representative Preparation Opportunities
- Performance Pathway Programs
The Foundation Program provides the platform from which all future development is built.+
Start Your Netball Journey The Right Way
Whether your child is taking their first steps in netball or looking to build stronger foundations for future success, the NQNA Foundation Program provides the coaching, support, and development environment to help them thrive.
Build confidence.
Develop skills.
Create opportunities.
Join the NQNA Foundation Program today.