Athlete Program
Netball Umpire
Program overview
The SESA Netball Umpire Program provides opportunity for eligible aspiring young netball umpires of the South East region of NSW to access quality development opportunities and support.
Umpires will receive expert coaching and participate in both practical and education development sessions throughout the program under guidance of the SESA umpire coach. The program is a part of a recognised Netball NSW Pathway for umpires. The program will commence in October 2026 and run until September 2027.
Scholarship holders will be required to undergo an induction process, attend weekend training camps, and participate in academy activities.
Scholarship benefits
Coaching Excellence – In a series of training sessions umpires will work with experienced umpires and coaches to develop skills.
Personal Growth – Off court sessions such as resilience to ensure umpires learn to prepare themselves off the court.
General Athletic Development – Testing and an introduction to Strength and Conditioning will improve speed, power and reactive ability on court and will lessen the chance of injury.
High level Competitive Experience - Two Academy Challenges are planned in 2026. Umpires will have an opportunity to represent SESA at the Academy Games and / or the Academy Challenge.
Academy Camp – Academy athletes and umpires all come together at Netball Central in Sydney for a weekend camp where the girls have the opportunity to learn from the best of the best.
Athlete eligibility
To be eligible for a SESA Netball Scholarship, athletes must satisfy the following criteria:
Be male or female aged between 14 and 18 in 2027 (born between 2013 and 2009);
Have attained or be working towards a National Umpire Award (National C or B Badge); and
Be a current financial member of a local Netball NSW Association located within the South East Region.
Reside in the South East region of NSW.
Selection process
Interested umpires must complete the online application form. Each applicant is reviewed by a selected panel of SESA coaches and administrators.
Conditions of scholarship
SESA Netball Umpire Scholarship holders are expected to:
Attend all program activities
Be committed and prepared to work toward improving performance
Be committed to a holistic approach to their development
Not take or use performance enhancing drugs or illegal drugs or participate in other activities that are prohibited by the South East Sports Academy Code of Conduct
Behave and dress in a professional and dignified manner when representing SESA
An athlete levy of $350 will apply which covers the cost of training sessions and induction camp.
Uniform levy $170 (mandatory for new SESA umpires). Uniform items can be purchased but not compulsory if uniform is still in good condition.
There is a selection process and additional fee for the Your Local Club Academy Games and the Academy Challenge.
Umpire Commitment
It is expected that umpires who accept a position in this program attend the compulsory training sessions, Academy Camp and Academy Challenge. Umpires selected to attend the Academy Games will be made based on availability and consultation with the Umpire Coach.
Training sessions will alternate between various locations in the region including Queanbeyan, Bega, Canberra and Goulburn.
Application Process - 2025
Complete an online nomination form by 16 October 2026
Attend selection trials on Saturday 17 October 2026
nominations close 16 October 2026
the 2027 sesa coaching team
Simone Blay, Head Coach
TBA - Umpire Coach
TBA - Assistant Coach
TBA - Assistant Coach
Sharon King, Manager