SBA Talent Academy
Purpose
The SBA High Performance Academy exists to provide a structured, high-quality development pathway that nurtures athletes both on and off the court. The program focuses on technical and physical performance, while also building character, leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Through expert coaching, targeted training, and community engagement, the Academy prepares athletes to succeed at the next level and become positive role models within basketball and the wider community.
Aim
The Academy provides clear guidance and support towards one of three pathways:
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NZNBL – through direct connection with the Southland Sharks or other league franchises.
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Tertiary Education – through scholarship opportunities in New Zealand and overseas.
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Southland Academy – preparing athletes for entry into the Southland Academy at Year 12.
Program Schedule
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Trial: 26 October 2025 – Open trial 12:00pm-2:00pm
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Workshops: 10 sessions (1 hour each) on monday evenings, covering off-court development (nutrition, strength & conditioning, personal accountability, goal setting, reflection, workload management).
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Trainings: 20 sessions between 5 November 2025 – 30 January 2026, on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, focused on individual skill development and high-level technique.
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Camp: 31 January – 1 February 2026 – Two-day elite camp bringing together athletes and coaches from Southland, Otago, North Otago, Central Lakes, and Eastern Southland.
Selection Criteria
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Available Spots: 7–10 athletes to ensure a high-performance, individualised environment.
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Eligibility & Criteria:
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Age & Potential – Minimum 15 years old (exceptions for outstanding talent).
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Representative Experience – Athletes must have played for Southland Basketball in 2025 (exceptions for new residents or injury-affected players).
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Discipline & Values – Athletes must uphold SBA’s values; poor conduct may result in non-selection or removal from the program.
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Performance Potential – Assessment of Rapid League and NZNBL/Tauihi League potential based on skillset, position, physical attributes, and age.
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Costs
This Talent Academy is free of charge; we want to remove barriers for our elite athletes to move forward along the pathways provided.
Disclaimer: This program is numbers-dependent; after the trial, players will be notified via email if they have been successful and if the program will go forward.