The QBE Sydney Swans Academy’s inaugural Under 14 Assessment was conducted last week, providing coaches a sneak peek of the promising talent coming through the ranks.
The assessment, attended by 110 Academy players at Moore Park’s Lakeside Oval, is designed similarly to the Open Athlete Assessment Trials whereby participants complete a series of skill-based stations in front of Academy coaches and staff.
Players are examined and given a score, based on their skill and athleticism, for each station and the expertise of UTS Sport and Exercise Science is utilised for motor skill testing components.
Following the assessment, each player will receive an individual player report which outlines individual strengths, weaknesses and their key skill areas that require improvement.
Throughout the 2017 program, coaches will refer to the reports to track individual player progress and then compile a final report at year’s end.
“The priority aim of the assessment is to provide individual feedback to players so they can focus on improving various strengths and weaknesses throughout the 2017 program,” Academy General Manager Chris Smith said.
“The players will know what skill areas they need to work on and their improvements will be monitored throughout the year by our specialty coaches."
“From what I saw on Wednesday, there are some really talented players coming through and we're excited to see their progression.”
The assessment was the first of its kind for the Under 13-15 age groups within QBE Sydney Swans Academy program.
Assessments for the Under 13 and Under 15 age groups will be held at Lakeside Oval on February 22 and March 1 respectively.