Excel Academy
This phase is focused on pressure. Players can execute high-quality skills under pressure. The Excel groups have an emphasis on the progress of the individual rather than the squad (or team) to try to facilitate the development of potential international champions of the future. Any competition is considered as a tool to be used to aid the individual athlete’s development and not the overall purpose for the existence of the Excel Groups. However, the value of competition cannot be undervalued as it is also important that the athletes know how to work and compete as a team member as well as how to win.
Outcome of the programme: To achieve the standards outlined under Excel in the Excel Guidelines.
Age of Players: U19 athletes
Progression: Selection into U17 or U19 squad to compete on the Netball Europe Championships. Athletes who fail to achieve selection into the National Excel Programme are recommended to liaise with the Regional Excel Coach to determine the most appropriate training and competing environment.
Josie Huckle shares her experience of training and reaching the East's Excel Academy:
"I am now in my third year of training with the Bedford Excel group; my first year coincided with being selected to play for Mavericks Youth and the senior Team Beds regional team at just 15. It was hard work stepping up my training, but with lots of support from the coaches and perseverance from me I adjusted to the new training programme. It's not always easy, this level of training means commitment, hard work and learning from when it doesn't always work out. However, the Excel programme really helps me develop and focus on what I need to do as an athlete, on my own and as a team member. In March 2008 I was asked to trial for the England Netball Talent group and was successful! A tough year followed for me with injury and illness, but I fought through it, worked even harder and in December 2009 I was selected to represent the U19's at the European Championships, which take place in March this year."
