Indigenous

Applications for the 2027 program will open in Term 1 2027

Register Your Interest

The WRAS Indigenous program is delivered in partnership with Underwriting Agencies Australia and the Regional Academies of Sport (RAS) network.

The WRAS and UAA Indigenous Talent ID event provides a sporting platform for athletes aged 12–18 to be identified and, where suitable and possible, considered for selection into one of the WRAS sports programs or other sports aligned with their interests. Athletes identified through this event may be offered the opportunity to progress into  scholarship positions within the WRAS Programs, or receive support as they pursue their identified sporting pathway.

Program Partners

UAA_Logo_1

Talent ID is designed to identify people with specific skills, personal qualities and physical attributes that may lead that person to become a high-performing athlete. It is much more than just assessing a person’s physical capabilities, it includes the emotional side of performance, aspects like; desire, determination, resilience and so forth. These qualities are found in elite performance athletes.

How the Event Works

Students will be introduced to a range of sports and will participate in multiple skill‑based sessions designed to create a fun, supportive environment for showcasing their abilities.

The event also includes a physical assessment, featuring strength and conditioning evaluations, fitness testing, and additional opportunities for students to demonstrate their commitment to progressing along the talent development pathway.

All coaches involved are highly qualified and experienced in talent identification and pathway development.

Talent‑Identified Students

Athletes who demonstrate strong athletic ability and potential for participation in the Academy’s State‑endorsed pathway programs may be offered supported positions in WRAS program trials and further support pending the outcome of the trial. Where a trial is not relevant, other support may be offered.

Selected Athletes

If idenified, athletes are selected for a position with a WRAS program, support options will be discussed at that time.

To be eligible to apply for the Indigenous Talent ID event, applicants must first identify as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent. Proof of descent may be requested.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

  • The program is open to male and female athletes aged 12–18 years.
  • Applicants must currently reside within one of the following Local Government Areas (LGAs):
    Bathurst Regional, Bland, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Dubbo Regional, Forbes, Gilgandra, Hilltops, Lachlan, Lithgow, Mid-Western Regional, Narromine, Oberon, Orange, Parkes and Weddin.
  • Applicants must be endorsed by the school and/or sporting organisation they attend or represent.

2027 dates will be available soon