Development Squad
Welcome to the Junior Development Squad!
The CDNA Development Squad program was created to support learning, growth, and enjoyment of netball in a positive and inclusive environment.
Our focus is not on being the best player or comparing netballers against one another, but on development — developing skills, confidence, game understanding, and a love for the sport.
Being part of this squad means every player will be given opportunities to participate, learn, and have a go. Netballers within various age categories will be encouraged to try new positions, challenge themselves, and develop at their own pace. Effort, attitude, teamwork, and willingness to learn are valued just as highly as technical ability.
The Junior Development Squad teams build strong foundations for the future of local netball. Sessions focus on skill development, decision-making, and understanding the game, while also creating a supportive team environment where players feel safe to make mistakes and grow from them.
Above all, the program aims to ensure netball remains enjoyable and rewarding for everyone involved. We want players to leave each session feeling more confident, supported, and excited about their netball journey.
We have Development Squads in the following age groups
– 11 and under
– 13 and under
– 15 and under
– 17 and under
– Male
We train at the outdoor netball courts at Wesley Hill Recreation Area, McGrath Street, Castlemaine and participate at regional and metropolitan tournaments throughout the year.
Interested in getting involved?
If you are interested in joining our Junior Development Squad — whether as a player, coach, umpire, or in another supporting role — we would love to hear from you.
Please contact Vanessa Saunders on XXXXXXXX or email cdna1962@hotmail.com for more information.
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Our Head Coach
– Vanessa Saunders
Vanessa Saunders is passionate about supporting young local people to achieve their greatest potential as a netball coach and official. For more than 20 years, she has helped navigate pathways for our netballers, ensuring the area’s ambitious players, coaches, and umpires are aware of and exposed to every opportunity possible. In addition to leading the CDNA Development Squad as Head Coach, Vanessa is also the head coach of Castlemaine Football Netball Club in the Bendigo Football Netball League; State Titles coach for the North Central region, and an assistant coach in the Victorian Men’s and Mixed Netball Association.
