Five of the squad missed the session in Tamworth as they pushed their selection cases.

Giann White and Billie Mitchell were trialling for the NSW U14 State team, while Tahlia Stuart, Mikayla Gross and Harriet Lyden were training with the U14 Country Development squad.

The two-day camp concentrated on shooting technique and shooting under pressure.

Also pressure passing and shooting off pressure passes. 

They also incorporated  some land work, and started on Saturday with a body balance class. 

It was then into the water for a three-hour workout.

On Sunday it was pool first before finishing up with an interval strength and conditioning session.

This year is the second year of the program and has seen an addition to the coaching staff, with Reece Rowbottom coming on board as a trainee coach.

The 20-year old is one of the region’s most talented products and a state level representative player.

He’s not long back from helping the NSW Country men win gold at the Australian Country Championships.

“It was a really good experience,” he said.

“The team went well.” 

It was his first time away with the NSW Country side.

While helping out at the weekend sessions with NIAS, Rowbottom, who hails from Armidale, will also work closely with the Armidale contingent of the squad.

If they find somewhere that will take them, the plan is to meet for a swim session and dryland session each week.

It is still early in the program but he’s enjoying it so far.

“It’s been good,” he said.

“I reckon it’s helped me as well as the kids.” 

Next on the horizon for him is the Australian Uni Games in September.

Until then, the third year biomedical science student’s sporting focus will be on his winter passion – soccer.

He keeps for East Armidale in the Northern Inland Premier League.

Mainly reserve grade, he has had some minutes for first grade.