A Dannevirke sports club has started an academy for young teens interested in playing netball in the hope of nurturing talent.
Michelle Mitchell is part of the Netball Centre, which decided to create the academy duing the off-season.
"Throughout the season this year, we've had a look and thought we've got a heap of talent in Dannevirke at the moment."
She said coaches were also willing to share their knowledge.
In the past, if the kids playing netball wanted to play representative, they would have to try out for Manawatu.