Four Territorians have proudly represented Netball NT on the national pathway, with players Hanna Eastick and Taylah Easton and coach Chelsea Coleman recently attending the Australian Talent Identification Camps at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). Fellow Territorian Winnie Evans was also named in the 17&U National Squad, though an untimely injury meant she was unable to attend camp.
These opportunities, delivered by Netball Australia, bring together the country’s most promising athletes and coaches identified from the National Netball Championships. Over an intensive week, participants are exposed to high-performance environments that stretch them both on and off the court.
For Chelsea Coleman, the experience as a coach was as much about connection as it was about technical learning. “The chance to collaborate with such a diverse group of highly accredited coaches and sports performance staff was invaluable,” she reflected. “I’m coming back to the Territory with fresh perspectives and new ways of thinking. The biggest message I’ll be passing on to our athletes is that success looks different for everyone – but above all, being a good human comes before being a good netballer.”
On the player side, the AIS environment was equally eye-opening. Hanna Eastick, part of the 17&U National Squad, described the camp as both challenging and inspiring. She relished connecting with athletes from across the country, learning not just about netball but also about their lives, schools, and pathways. “It was amazing training alongside some of the best young players in Australia,” she said. “Everyone pushed each other to be better. I’m excited to bring those new skills and attitudes back to my local competitions.”
Hanna’s biggest lessons weren’t limited to the court. Education sessions emphasised the importance of balance, with athletes encouraged to look after both their physical and mental wellbeing to avoid burnout. “It reminded me that while we love netball, it’s just as important to make time for other things that keep us happy and healthy,” she said.
Taylah Easton, named in the 19&U National Squad, echoed those sentiments, describing the week as unforgettable. A highlight for her was seeing the Diamonds in action and testing herself against the Australian 21s. “It was such an enjoyable week with an amazing group of people,” she said. “The experience and learning opportunities I got from it were unbelievable, and it’s something that will stay with me for life.”
Although unable to take the court at camp, Winnie Evans’ selection in the 17&U National Squad is a testament to her outstanding performances at the National Netball Championships. Her achievement reinforces the growing strength of Territory athletes on the national stage.
Netball NT Head of Netball, Peta Stephens, said the representation of four Territorians at this level is something the whole community should be proud of. “These camps are about preparing the next generation of athletes and coaches to thrive in high-performance environments, and to see our players and coaches right in the mix is really encouraging for the future of NT netball.”
From the AIS courts back to Territory competitions, our NT coaches and players carry with them the lessons, friendships, and inspiration of the national pathway – proof that NT talent is well and truly making its mark.
