The IAS Netball Program is designed to support the developmental needs of the region’s young talented netballers by providing high performance sport development programs. 

Scholarships are offered for a 12-month period, from October 2015 to September 2016.

Kiama Netball Association players Georgia Barr, Karlia Cook, Tiarne East, Steffanie Lockett and Charlotte Lourey were accepted by the IAS for 2016. 

Association president Rhonda Beedles said this was a great achievement for a relatively small association, and follows the four players Kiama had at the academy in 2014/15.

“It’s a proud moment to have that many,” she said.

“To get five in there is quite significant, as we’re one of the smaller associations in the region.

“We’re jammed between the two larger organisations – Illawarra and Shoalhaven.”

Mrs Beedles said most of the Kiama players participating would soon be turning 15 or 16, which was a key time for their development as netball players.

As part of the program, IAS Netball sessions will be held fortnightly/monthly at various venues throughout the Illawarra region including Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven and the Wingecarribee.

IAS Scholarship holders will encounter high level competition through their participation in the annual ClubsNSW Academy Games, Inter-Academy Challenge, the NIB Games as well as matches against teams from metropolitan Sydney.

“I’d like to congratulate the girls; they show a lot of commitment to go to the extra training sessions,” Mrs Beedles said.

“It’s a pat on the back for those girls who have made the extra effort to get there.”

Mrs Beedles said the Kiama association currently had about 750 registered players. 

The association will also be hosting its 30th Anniversary Dinner/Dance on March 12 at Kiama Bowling Club.

All past and present members and guests are invited.

Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased via http://www.trybooking.com/171213.