Development Network Squad Program Overview

The Development Network Squad Program (DNSP) is a program to identify and select outstanding Basketball Athletes within regional South Australia, to develop their physical & mental skills, individual skills and team concepts which will aid them to compete successfully at National and International level. The program involves over 400 country based athletes & 40 Network coaches working on three levels Rookies Squad (Gold) 11-12 yo athletes, Junior Squad (Blue) 13-14 yo athletes, Senior Squad (Red) 15-17 yo athletes & Premier Squad-identified "Blue Chip" Senior Squad athletes, this is called Regional High Performance. DNSP offers professional coaching at a junior level, a direct access to National & State programs far easier than other competitions or instruction. It is a direct link with the very best from every Regional centre throughout the state.

DNSP is monitored by South Australian County Basketball Head Coach - Jason Bald who visits Murray Bridge several times per year to provide both player & coach development & overall direction of the program. The program is run on a weekly basis for 90 minutes during the school terms, starting in February and finishing in November with 5-6 Regional sessions held in each zone area North #1, North #2, South & Central including an (All Country) squad camp for selected senior athletes to be held in September. The aim or set goal would be to complete 40 hours of team concepts and 40 hours of individual instruction for each player over this period with the prime objective being to develop, educate and improve. The selection criteria is identified talent in athletic ability (height, speed, quick hands, strength), attitude and desire to become a State or National team representative, potential to be socially compatible and display a sense of team ethic within a group, be highly receptive to coaching, with a strong desire to succeed.

The DNSP is not a state team program (and selection in the program does not guarantee you a position in a state team), or a representative program, it is an individualized program aimed at assisting committed athletes reach national and international level standard or progress to become key contributors to basketball within South Australia Country and beyond.

The South Australia Country Development Network Squads operate on a user pays system. These fees are designed to cover operating costs only - Payment for the program does not have to be immediate, instalments can be made or alternate arrangements can be negotiated individually regarding payment with the respective Squad or Network coach. The program aim is to identify individual Athletes strength’s and weaknesses and to build upon those strengths and minimize their weaknesses. To maximize player and team potential at a highly competitive level, continue to build a tradition and culture of excellence and success within the program. To achieve this, it is necessary to have the support and input of all parties (athlete, parent(s)/guardians(s), coaches and support staff.

For more information about DNSP in Murray Bridge, contact Paul Salter or Judi Prosser.