Players invited to put themselves forward for Junior Open Selection Day

It provides an opportunity for athletes to showcase their technical ability, tactical understanding, and physical potential within an England-style training environment – and benefit from high-quality coaching at the same time. 

Attendance is primarily sought from athletes born in 2010 and 2011, but exceptionally promising athletes born in 2012 may also be considered. 

There will be future opportunity for athletes born 2012 to be selected for one of four Talent Zones in July. 

The sessions will be led by England U18 Women’s Coach Alex Chinery and U18 Men’s Coach Ryan Murphy. 

Throughout the day, both girls’ and boys’ groups will take part in engaging on-court training sessions, structured physical testing, and informative education activities designed to support development. 

The Selection Day will take place at The Netball Centre, Loughborough University, LE11 3TU. 

Women’s registration is at 9am, ahead of a 9.30am to 4.30pm session. Men's Registration is from 10.30 am, ahead of a 11am to 6.30pm session. 

“I’m excited to see the next generation of talent and how these young athletes embrace selection days as an opportunity to be brave enough to take risks, reflect on outcomes, and demonstrate resilience as part of their learning and development as players,” said Murphy. 

Chinery added: “This is a great opportunity for us to identify potential additions to a group that already contains a wealth of talent. We're not worried about where you're coming from, only interested in where you want to go with the sport.

“Those athletes prepared to push themselves outside of their comfort zone and show they have what it takes to represent England will have the opportunity to do something special in this age group... and we want to hear from them!"

Click here for more information about the Junior Selection Open Day. 

How to apply

Athletes must put themselves forward by Sunday 14th March and can click here for more information. Invitations and an Athlete Information Pack will be sent on Thursday 19th March (please note that an application does not guarantee an invite). 

Parents of athletes invited to attend will be invited to a meeting with Volleyball England staff, to talk about the programme and expectations of the athletes. More information will be detailed in the information pack.