Inaugural High Performance Youth Academy to be launched in 2023
The start of a New Year in the bowls world brings anticipation and excitement about what lies ahead. In 2023 a new program initiative will give our ‘Next Generation’ of Queensland talent a little something extra to strive for.
Launching on the 1st February, the Bowls Queensland High Performance Youth Academy will offer a new platform for the development of identified talent, between the ages of 15 to 30, selected from across the State.
With the aim of capturing and retaining young players in the sport from an early age, the Youth Academy will offer the opportunity to be part of a structured training environment and squad who will be mentored, supported and managed by experienced coaches who have a passion to inspire learning, growth, achievement and excellence.
The High-Performance Youth Academy will be a fantastic stepping stone for those developing players within the sport of bowls who have ambition to move through the pathway structure, in to the Queensland Pathways Squad and State Squads and potentially on to higher Australian Squad honours.
The Youth Academy Program concept has been designed, and will be led, by one of Queensland’s most decorated, successful and respected representatives, and Bowls Australia Queensland Pathways Coach, Lynsey Clarke.
Clarke, who herself came through the Queensland ranks as a representative Junior, Under 25, and then Open Level athlete before taking to the international stage, is excited about the opportunity to play a key role in nurturing the Next Generation of young Queenslanders on their own unique journeys.
“I feel really grateful to have come through a strong development program in our State when I started showing some ability as a Junior. I was able to learn from some amazing coaches and mentors who provided me with such a solid foundation in the sport – not just skills wise, but more importantly with those life values that have led me so well throughout my lengthy international bowls career.”
“That’s what we want to offer these young Queenslanders. The impact of a great coach and learning environment can’t be underestimated, so I’m really excited about what the future can hold for our Academy Squad members down the track. I envisage they will become fantastic ambassadors of the mighty maroon shirt!”.
Clarke will work closely with Bowls Queensland Coaching Coordinator, Alan Thorp (and his committee), to develop and deliver the content and ensure a comprehensive, educational and motivational Program is provided to the incoming 2023 Academy Squad.
“This Academy is such a positive step in the right direction for youth development and the growth of our sport in Queensland” Thorp said. “Our State Coaching Committee are looking forward to working with Lynsey in the delivery of this program”.
The inaugural Bowls Queensland High Performance Youth Academy Squad for 2023 will be selected and finalised upon completion of the 2023 State Junior Championships, which are being held in Bundaberg from 15th – 20th January.
Bowls Queensland President Peter Williamson andCEO Brett Wilkie are also excited about the potential of what this program could deliver, long term, for the State.
Bowls Queensland’s aim and strong desire, is to improve the Pathways and Performances of Queensland Representatives with the BQ Board believing this new Academy would be a direct contribution to a High-Performance program. “Providing an exciting time for the Youth in Queensland”.
