NEW Hamilton Kangaroos open grade coach Kelsey Lewis says junior development will be a key priority for the team in 2016.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
With a mix of junior and senior players making their way up through the ranks, Lewis will lead a different-look Hamilton Kangaroos side this season.
“We’ve only got two original players from last season, so it’ll be a nearly all-new team,” she said.
“I’m really looking at developing the younger players at the club, especially the under 17s coming through.
“I’m going to try to push them to play senior level.”
The 25-year-old kicked off her Hamilton coaching career at junior level last year, having previously coached C grade side Penshurst in the Mininera and District league four years ago.
This season, she will also continue on in her capacity as a juniors coach with the Kangaroos’ 15 and under side.
Lewis said the club’s open grade side was still taking shape, but she is looking forward to seeing what they produce on the court once it is finalised.
Hamilton Kangaroos netball director Stephanie Holcombe said Lewis’ commitment to junior development would hold her in good stead for the role.
“Kelsey has been great for our club as a play and in a coaching role with our juniors last season,” she said.
“She really loves focusing on junior development, working on developing their skills and their knowledge.”
The Kangaroos have finalised their coaching line-up for 2016, with Lewis’ sister Rhianne coaching the division one team, Kristine Mibus in charge of the division two team and Elise Haw to lead the division three team.
In the junior ranks, Rose Wombwell will mentor the 17 and under side, while Ellen Casey will coach the 13 and under girls.
I'm really looking at developing the younger players at the club.
- Kelsey Lewis