Softball

Nominations for the 2026/27 program open in October

Register Your Interest

The NIAS Softball program is delivered in partnership with Softball NSW and the Regional Academies of Sport (RAS) network.

This program provides a high‑performance development pathway for talented young Softballers, focusing on technical skills, strength and conditioning, athlete education, and personal growth. It aligns with the Softball NSW Pathway and connects athletes to state and national pathways.

Athletes receive targeted skill development, seasonal training support, and preparation for high‑performance trials. The program includes practical education in areas such as S&C, nutrition, sports psychology and injury management, along with opportunities to represent NIAS at events, inter‑academy sessions and camps.

Program Partners

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Softball_NSW_Logo

Selected athletes receive:

  • High‑quality coaching in a squad environment
  • Access to quality training facilities
  • Strength & Conditioning assessment and programming
  • Sports science testing and high‑performance training support
  • Opportunities to represent NIAS at events
  • Academy uniform kit (additional cost)
  • Participation in Your Local Club Academy Games and Inter-Academy Softball activities (invitation only)
 

Additional NIAS benefits:

  • Access to Lumin (Academy athlete performance and management platform)
  • Support for award and scholarship nominations
  • Community engagement and corporate partner exposure
  • Promotion through NIAS media channels

Program Eligibility Criteria

Athletes must:

  • Aged 13 to 15 in 2026 (born 2011 or 2013)
  • Be committed to progressing to higher representation within Softball.
  • Be a registered member of a Softball club within the Northern Inland region.
  • Reside in one of the following LGAs: Armidale, Glen Innes Severn, Gunnedah, Gwydir, Inverell, Liverpool Plains, Moree Plains, Narrabri, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Uralla, and Warrumbungle.
An athlete scholarship levy will apply, covering the above listed program benefits and more. Uniform costs are additional, with Softball‑specific and NIAS items purchased through the official supplier. Additional event costs may apply for Academy Games and Softball NSW pathway events.

Program Delivery Period
October 2026 to April 2027

Key Dates
Academy Games: 9th-12th April 2027

Head Coach
Alan McNulty

Assistant Coach
Scott Cracknell

Manager
Natalie Crittle

Annie Rains
Eloise Trotter
Emily Vesey
Madeline Trotter
Melody Jones
Morgan Attard
Phillipa Cracknell

Piper Blinman
Ruby Rakus
Sadie Nicholls
Zoe Gentle