The Guernsey Netball Association PDP Junior Academy is a prestigious programme that identifies and nurtures young netball talent from years 7, 8, and 9. Athletes are nominated by their teachers and coaches to participate in performance trials, marking the first step on the England Netball Performance Pathway. The selected athletes train together as a squad from October through to May, with opportunities to compete off-island towards the end of the season. The programme emphasises individual skill development and includes both on-court and off-court education, managed and standardised by England Netball.
Sally Carns, Director of Netball at the Guernsey Netball Association, expressed her excitement about the sponsorship:
"We are delighted to have Oak Group as our sponsor. Their support will enable us to enhance our training programmes and provide our young athletes with the resources they need to excel. This partnership is a significant step forward for the PDP Junior Academy, and we look forward to a successful collaboration."
Anna Sauvarin, Chief People Officer at Oak Group commented on the partnership:
"We are proud to support the Guernsey Netball Association PDP Junior Academy. At Oak, we believe in the power of sports to inspire and develop young people. This sponsorship aligns with our commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. We look forward to supporting the academy and witnessing the growth and success of its young athletes.”
Oak’s sponsorship will support the academy's additional off island and playing opportunities for athletes in the subsequent years, making the programme more accessible to young talent.
