SMART

To BOOK a session : smartsportsacademies@gmail.com

Academy Programme

Our Netball Programme is designed to support your club and/or school training. It has been diligently planned and is built based on years of coaching and teaching experience. Sessions are split into 6 weeks blocks incorporating fitness testing, individual feedback, progress measures and education sessions to develop the all round athlete.

Our current athletes are motivated and smart and they love coming to training. They expect to work hard, they ask questions and they make outstanding progress.

If you want to reach the top of your game whatever your age then our academy sessions are for you. We do not trial our athletes, everyone is welcome; however we do expect a level of commitment and aspiration.

Holiday Camps

We all love to strive and excel but during the holidays we love to have a fun time with our friends. Holiday camps are coached by excellent coaches and include skill based sessions, tactics and game play but our main focus is fun! See our facebook page for some of the games we enjoy.

Jess Fowler – Head Coach

I am a fully qualified Physical Education teacher, Level 2 netball coach, and certified yoga instructor. My coaching philosophy is shaped by my diverse background, which includes competing at a high level in both netball and rowing. These experiences have significantly informed my approach to coaching, allowing me to create a holistic and effective training environment that prioritises both athletic performance and personal growth.

Abbie Moore-Hill – S & C Coach

Abbie has successfully completed her Masters in Strength and Conditioning, specialising in developing speed and power in netball. As part of her academic journey, she conducted an in-depth research project examining the specific effects of plyometrics in the sport, providing valuable insights into player performance and training needs. In September, Abbie will be a full-time Strength and Conditioning coach working with our Smart athletes and high performance athletes at Merchant Taylors’ School in Crosby. She has played netball to a high standard. Representing Staffs and Liverpool John Moore’s university. Her academic and practical netball experience will be a tremendous asset in supporting the development and performance of our athletes.

Iona West

Iona has played through the Manchester Thunder pathway and is currently playing for Loughborough Lightning and Merseyside. She is a fabulous, reflective coach who the girls can look up to and be inspired by.

Jenni Collins

Jenni is currently pursuing a career as a Physical Education teacher and is dedicated to integrating her passion for sport into her teaching practices. As an accomplished international Rugby player, she brings a wealth of experience, discipline, and strategic insight to her role. Jenni will be assuming responsibility for the “Game Sense” component of our program, an area in which she excels due to her deep understanding of the tactical, psychological, and physical aspects of sport. Her expertise will enhance our students’ engagement with sport, fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills that are vital for both individual and team-based success. With her exceptional background and commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive sporting environment, Jenni is poised to make a significant contribution to the development of our program and the students who participate in it.

Current Sessions

Year 4, 5 & 6 Performance – Tuesday 5 – 6.30pm Birkenhead High School Academy Sports Hall – 4 spaces available

Year 7, 8 & 9 Performance – Tuesday 6.30 – 8pm Birkenhead High School Academy Sports Hall – 4 spaces available

Year 4-7 Performance – Friday 4 – 5.30pm Merchant Taylor’s Sports Hall – FULL – apply for wait list smartsportsacademies@gmail.com

Year 7-9 Performance – Friday 5.30 – 7pm Merchant Taylor’s Sports Hall – FULL – apply for wait list

  • Testimonials

    This netball course has been invaluable, getting back to basics in a fun and nurturing way. The girls have benefitted from the infectious positivity that Jess exudes in abundance, with a smart structure and strategy to ensure the girls are thinking about the game, both on and off court. Jess loves what she does and the athletes have left each session happy and energised. A great 12-week block and the girls are excited for the year ahead!   Mum of Year 8 athlete

    Jess’ s sessions are fun, challenging and have made a real positive impact on my game and performance. Year 7 athlete