2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games Evaluation Report
The 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games were held across Tamworth from Friday 17 April to Sunday 19 April 2026, marking the second year of the Northern Inland Academy of Sport's (NIAS) 3 year hosting tenure The Games brought together some of the state's most promising emerging athletes, competing across 6 sports: Golf, Netball, Basketball, Triathlon, Hockey and Softball.
A total of 1,253 athletes, coaches, officials, staff and volunteers attended, with competition spread across multiple venues throughout the region. Tamworth's highquality sporting facilities were central to the event's smooth running, and strong collaboration with Tamworth Regional Council ensured well-coordinated operations across all sites.
A focused media strategy helped broaden the Games reach and visibility. Partnerships with NBN Television and the Super Radio Network (92.9 and 95.5) boosted brand presence, while pre-event promotion and thorough post-event coverage drove strong audience engagement throughout.
The 2026 Games were made possible by the collective efforts of all eleven NSW Regional Academies of Sport (RAS), together with key partners including Jack Newton Junior Golf, Softball Metro Academies, the Rest of State Triathlon Academy (ROSTA) and Sydney Netball teams. Their commitment was integral to maintaining the high standards of participation, competition and athlete development the Games are known for.
The success of the event is a credit to the organising committee, volunteers, sponsors, participants and delivery partners, whose combined efforts produced a weekend of quality competition and genuine impact for athletes and the wider sporting community Favourable weather throughout added to the experience, with Tamworth presenting itself at its best.
The 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games delivered on every front, providing a standout experience for athletes, stakeholders and the local community alike. The results speak to the broader value of regional sporting events in building connections, encouraging healthy competition and motivating the next generation of athletes.
The 2026 Your Local Club Academy Games brought 926 athletes, 223 coaching and support staff, with an estimate of over 2 700 spectators to the Tamworth Region.
Duration of Stay in the Tamworth Region from Participant Survey
All respondents in the post Games evaluation survey were asked to indicate the numbers of nights stayed in the Tamworth region for the Games. Most respondents (63%) stayed in the region for 2 nights
It is estimated that 7,763 bed stays were generated by the event, with a total economic tourism value of
(Note: This figure is based on the calculations of Destinations NSW average domestic overnight event visitor to NSW spending $445 per night )
IT'S ESTIMATED THAT IN 2026...
BED STAYS
bed stays were generated by the event
accommodation booked across 3 LGA's
The Northern Inland Academy of Sport drew on a range of outstanding local venues and community support to help deliver a successful 2026 event. The quality of the facilities and the generosity of support received were truly exceptional. We extend our sincere thanks to the RAS Sport convenors and local sport coordinators, whose dedication and coordination were instrumental in the smooth and effective management of the event.
Triathlon: Jared Kahlefeldt, Bridget Butterfield, Luke Field
Softball: Martin Rae, Sue Charles, Heather Smith
Local Sport Coordinators
Basketball: Carol Rickard
Golf: Brock Sampson, Harrison Russell
Hockey: Julie Rodda, Tamworth Hockey Association
Netball: Rebecca McKenzie Lisa Fox, Tamworth Netball Association
Triathlon: Paul and June Billings, Tim Hurcum, Tamworth Triathlon Club
Softball: Tamworth Softball Association
VENUES
Opening Ceremony: Tamworth Athletics Track
Basketball: Tamworth Sports Dome
Golf: Tamworth Golf Club, Longyard Golf Club
Hockey: Tamworth Hockey Association
Netball: Tamworth Sports Dome
Triathlon: Tamworth Pool, No.1 Oval and Surrounds
Softball: Riverside Softball Complex
6 sports were delivered for the 2026 event including Basketball, Hockey, Golf, Netball, Softball and Triathlon The participation for both athletes, officials and staff for each Academy and Invitational teams are outlined below:
The Northern Inland Academy of Sport successfully launched the highly anticipated 2026 event with a special media event held at The Courts @ East on the 5 March. The event was attended by media representatives, VIPs and key stakeholders
The Media Launch featured addresses from Tamworth Regional Council Deputy Mayor Cr Geoff Budd, RAS Chair Darryl Clout and Shona Eichorn, RAS Advancement Services Manager, each highlighting the importance of regional pathways and the role of the Games in strengthening local sporting communities
Athletes from the Northern Inland Academy of Sport Laura Hall (Hockey), Piper Blinman (Softball), Benji Ralston (Golf) and Bayley Ralston (Golf) also shared their stories, reflecting on their development within academy programs and the opportunities provided through high‑quality training, coaching, and competition.
NIAS alumnus Julia Boland delivered a keynote address, offering insight into her progression from regional athlete to international competition She spoke about the foundational role academy programs played in shaping her career and the importance of structured development for young people pursuing excellence.
The media coverage for the event included a live stream on the RAS Facebook pages, social media posts from RAS and individual RAS pages, as well as coverage via the Super Radio network, Channel 7 - New England, ABC New England, NBN, Northern Daily Leader and the Moree Champion.
Examples of Media:
NBN News North West - Finals of Regional Academy Games in Tamworth
New England Times - Tamworth ready to host NSW's rising sporting stars this weekend
Moree News - Sport kicking goals for regional tourism
Northern Daily Leader - Top regional athletes head to our city for a high-stakes sporting showcase
Nepean News - WSAS athletes shine at Regional Academy Games
Western News - WSAS athletes shine at Regional Academy Games
ABC News New England North West - Emily Chalker Interview
Web Story: 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games a win for athletes and the Tamworth region
Web Story: 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games Officially Launched in Tamworth
The Your Local Club Regional Academy Games is a significant undertaking that relies on a robust commercial platform. We would like to take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge the many partners who made this event possible:
First Aid
NIAS worked with ProActive Physio to ensure all sporting venues had adequate first aid on site for the duration of the competition.
Catering
The catering for this years event was provided by local cafes and community clubs at the sporting facilities. We would like to thank the Heathly Lunchbox Truck and Gold Leaf Cafe (Tamworth Sports Dome), and 3 Fillies who provided coffee at the Triathlon event.
Photography
The official photography was provided by Kevin Bull Photography. Videography was provided by Chasing Summer Photography
EVENT SERVICES EVENT INITIATIVES
The Games featured a range of community-focused initiatives that enriched the event experience and strengthened connections between grassroots sport and elite pathways.
The weekend officially opened with a special performance by Tamworth Country Music artist Ashleigh Dallas, whose live set celebrated the city’s cultural heritage and set a festive tone for the Games
A key highlight was the Office of Sport's Pathways in Sport – Q&A Panel, held on Saturday, April 18 at the Tamworth Sports Dome. This free, community-accessible session brought together Olympians Emily Chalker (Hockey), Natalie Burton (Basketball) and Jaz Hedgeland (Triathlon) alongside sport scientist Dr Juanita Weissensteiner, RAS General Manager of Performance and Innovation Erin Wilson and RAS Nutrionist (Nutrient Nation) Isabelle Smith. The panel shared personal stories and insights into athlete development, Olympic preparation, and the importance of support networks, drawing a strong and engaged audience of athletes, coaches, and families.
Throughout the weekend, the presence of Olympians added prestige and inspiration, attending events, engaging with participants, and presenting medals at the official awards ceremony
92.9FM Tamworth broadcasted live from the Tamworth Sports Dome, offering real-time coverage, interviews with key personnel, including athletes, from the Games. This initiative extended the event’s reach to the wider community and highlighted local stories and achievements
LIVE STREAMING
Live streaming of Basketball and Netball was delivered by Glory League from the Tamworth Sports Dome, providing accessible, reliable coverage for athletes, families, coaches, and stakeholders.
All games are streamed live via YouTube, with access links available directly through the Academy website. This ensures easy viewing across devices and allows audiences to follow games in real time or replays post‑event
Stream Structure
Live coverage across Basketball and Netball courts
Streams were segmented into four hour time slots per court
Separate links are provided for each court and time block to ensure stream stability and clear scheduling
Multiple courts are streamed concurrently throughout the event
Key Benefits
Consistent, venue‑based streaming infrastructure at the Tamworth Sports Dome
Easy access via YouTube with no login or subscription required
Improved visibility and exposure for athletes and academy programs
Strong engagement tool for families, regions, partners, and talent pathways
Access
Live stream links are published on the Academy website prior to each competition day and remain available for on demand viewing following the event.
Across all livestreams, the Basketball and Netball games recorded a combined total of 13,290 views, highlighting strong audience engagement across both sports.
SCORING & RESULTS PLATFORMS
Match scoring and results across the event were delivered through a combination of trusted digital platforms, ensuring accurate, real‑time access for athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators.
Spawtz served as the primary scoring platform for multiple sports, providing live scoring, fixtures, ladders, and match results throughout the event.
Scoring Platforms by Sport
Basketball: Spawtz
Netball: Spawtz
Hockey: Spawtz
Softball: Spawtz
Golf: Golfgenius
Triathlon: My race result
Key Benefits
Live scores and results accessible online throughout the event
Sport‑specific systems aligned with governing body standards
Improved transparency and information flow for athletes, families, and staff
SPORT REPORTS
Academies
CCAS, HAS, IAS, NCAS, NIAS, SSA, SESA, WRAS
Venue
Tamworth Sports Dome
Event Summary
The 2026 Basketball competition was delivered across Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday morning, with 40 games played across boys and girls divisions.
Competition ran across two pools of four teams, with all teams progressing to knockout finals, followed by semi-finals and Gold and Bronze Medal playoffs All games ran to time and schedule, officiated by competent referees managed by Carol Rickard from Tamworth Basketball.
The standard of competition was notably improved compared to previous years, widely attributed to the well-received move from 4×8 minute to 4×10 minute fully timed games A coach and managers online briefing held the week prior to the event set clear expectations and contributed to a well-managed competition environment throughout the weekend.
Stephen Craig provided valuable on-court referee education from a coaching perspective, which was well received by officials. Eric Hackett assisted convenors Stephen Craig and Rohan Stevenson in selecting an All-Star Five in both boys and girls divisions, announced on Sunday. A Coach of the All-Star Team award was also introduced for both divisions, recognising the significant contribution of volunteer coaches - an addition that was warmly received by all present and sits in keeping with Basketball NSW and NBL award structures. Match officials of each Gold Medal game were also recognised with a Gold Medal, consistent with Basketball NSW event standards
Sincere thanks to Carol Rickard and Tamworth Basketball, Stephen Craig, Eric Hackett, Rohan Stevenson, all referees and officials, and the many volunteers who contributed to a well-run and highly competitive weekend of basketball.
The 2026 Golf tournament was successfully delivered across three days, bringing together twelve academies in a competitive and well-organised event.
The competition followed a three-round structure comprising stroke play on Friday and Saturday, and match play on Sunday, aligned with the US college golf system, offering a strong pathway development opportunity for athletes. Results from the first two rounds determined the top five players from each academy, who then represented their teams in Sunday's match play This format continues to be well received by athletes and is supported by both Jack Newton Junior Golf and Golf NSW, with feedback remaining positive across the event.
Participation numbers saw an encouraging increase compared to 2025. Strong camaraderie and sportsmanship were evident throughout, with players from different regions having already built familiarity across the season. Notably, many families extended their stay prior to competition days to practise at both venues, a reflection of excellent buy-in from athlete families across the state and a welcome boost for tourism in the Tamworth region
Both Tamworth Golf Club and Longyard Golf Club, along with their Pro Shop teams, were welcoming and supportive throughout the weekend, with local members appearing genuinely pleased to host junior competition.
Overall, this was a highly successful event, and the Academy Games Golf competition continues to grow as a standout fixture on the calendar. Sincere thanks to Ethan Keane and Samarah Gibson (Jack Newton Junior Golf), both host venues and their Pro Shop teams, Golf NSW, and all volunteers and supporting organisations for their contributions to a successful event
SPORT REPORTS
Academies
Division 1 Boys: NIAS, SWSAS, HAS 1, WSAS/NCAS, NCAS 1
The 2026 Hockey competition was successfully delivered at the Tamworth Hockey Centre across three days, with a total of 18 teams and approximately 235 athletes competing across four divisions.
Friday and Saturday featured round-robin matches, with finals and classification matches held on Sunday. The competition structure was thoughtfully adjusted to reflect team nominations and athlete availability, ensuring the maximum number of games could be delivered while supporting athlete welfare and minimising back-to-back fixtures.
Support from the Tamworth Hockey Association was outstanding throughout the weekend, with strong contributions across venue operations, canteen and BBQ services, technical support, and volunteer coordination. Their involvement played a significant role in creating a positive experience for athletes, staff, and spectators alike.
Strong collaboration between academies was a highlight of the event, including NIAS successfully sourcing local goalkeepers to support competition integrity across the girls divisions. Despite the logistical complexity of managing 18 teams across four divisions, the tournament was delivered successfully and provided a high-quality competitive experience for all involved.
Sincere thanks to the Tamworth Hockey Association, all umpires and technical officials, Hockey NSW, academy coaches and support staff, and the many volunteers who contributed to a well-run and enjoyable event
SPORT REPORTS
Academies
Pool 1A: HAS, SNA Purple, SNA Teal, WSAS, WRAS, NCAS
Pool 1B: SWSAS, SNA Blue, CCAS, WSAS, SSA, IAS
Pool 2A: WRAS, IAS, HAS, SSA, NCAS, NIAS Maroon
Pool 2B: SNA Yellow, CCAS, SWSAS, SESA, FWAS, NIAS
Venues
Tamworth Sports Dome
Event Summary
The 2026 Netball tournament was held over three days at the Tamworth Sports Dome, bringing together 11 RAS alongside the Sydney Metro Academy across two divisions
Teams competed in a round robin format across the opening stages before progressing to finals matches based on pool standings Across the weekend, a total of 74 games were played, making for a busy, competitive, and well-attended schedule.
The event was strongly supported by Netball NSW, whose on-ground workforce created valuable opportunities for umpire and coach development, as well as athlete identification throughout the tournament Special thanks to Georgia Fuller, Sam May, and Chris Hall from Netball NSW for their dedication in the lead-up to and across the weekend.
The Tamworth Netball Association representatives, Lisa Fox and Rebecca McKenzie, provided excellent support across both the planning and delivery of the event. The facilities were maintained in outstanding condition, and any issues that arose were swiftly addressed
Presentation on the showcourt was a standout addition, with athletes and families filling the grandstand and creating a fantastic atmosphere to close out the tournament Congratulations to SWSAS for winning Division 1 and WRAS for taking out Division 2.
Sincere thanks to Netball NSW, Tamworth Netball Association, Tamworth Sports Dome staff, all umpires and officials, and the many volunteers who contributed to an outstanding weekend of netball
The 2026 Softball competition was successfully delivered over two days at the Tamworth Riverside Sporting Complex, with five girls teams and three boys teams competing across the weekend.
Saturday – Group Stages Girls teams competed in a round-robin format, with boys teams playing a double round-robin to ensure maximum game time across the day.
Sunday – Finals Series Remaining group matches were completed before finals, with the top two boys teams progressing directly to the Grand Final. The girls finals featured a progressive format, with 2nd vs 3rd and 4th vs 5th, with the winner of 2nd vs 3rd advancing to the Grand Final.
All diamonds were well prepared and marked with support from Tamworth Regional Council and the Tamworth Softball Association, and the venue proved a suitable and functional host across both days. Canteen services provided by Tamworth Baseball were well received by participants and spectators throughout the weekend. First aid and physiotherapy services were available throughout the event, ensuring appropriate athlete care at all times.
The Umpire in Chief provided strong leadership across the competition, effectively managing umpires and ensuring the event ran smoothly and on schedule. The event maintained a positive and respectful atmosphere throughout, creating an excellent environment for competitive softball.
Sincere thanks to Peter from Proactive Physio, Tamworth Regional Council, Stacey and the Tamworth Softball Association volunteers, the Umpire in Chief and all officiating umpires, Tamworth Baseball for canteen operations, and all volunteers and supporting organisations for their contributions to a successful event.
Tamworth Town Centre – including Tamworth Memorial Pool, Riverside Sporting Complex, No.1 Oval, Gipps Street, Solander Avenue, and Bicentennial Parklands.
Event Summary
The 2026 Triathlon was successfully delivered across two days in central Tamworth, bringing together nine academies in a highly competitive and well-structured event. Saturday featured Individual Heats 1–6, with A and B Finals held on Sunday. Accumulated heat times were used to allocate athletes into finals, encouraging strong performances across every race.
A "Fantasy Teams" format replaced the traditional teams event, with medals awarded to the top three academies based on their best three individual results. This was well received and created a clean, streamlined event structure across both days
Course highlights included consistent pool temperatures maintained by Tamworth Regional Council, improved road surface quality on the bike leg, and the well-received incorporation of Bicentennial Parklands into the run course. Clear signage and well-positioned volunteers ensured smooth navigation throughout. Central Tamworth provided a vibrant atmosphere with strong spectator engagement across both days.
Despite operating without pavilion access, the event was delivered to a high standard through strong planning and adaptability. The anticipated completion of the pavilion ahead of 2027 presents a clear opportunity to further elevate the experience for athletes and spectators alike
Sincere thanks to Tim Hurcum (Tamworth Triathlon Club), Paul and June Billings (race timing), Aus Triathlon technical officials, Jake McManus (Proactive Physio), Robyn Low-Hart (Tri NSW), and all volunteers and supporting organisations.
POST EVENT SURVEY
RAS conducted an internet-based survey to obtain feedback from participants, officials, parents/guardians, spectators and volunteers regarding their experience as a part of the 2025 Your Local Club Academy Games.
A total of 369 respondents completed the post-event feedback survey, comprising of 148 athletes, 149 parents/guardians, 46 coaches/managers, 19 staff, 5 spectators, and 2 volunteers.
Sport Representation
All respondents were asked to indicate the sport they were affiliated with at the games. The most respondents wer
POST EVENT SURVEY
Attendance Frequency
All respondents were asked to indicate how many times they had attended an Academy Games. The most respondents indicated that this was their first Academy Games.
Travel & Accomodation
All respondents were asked to indicate their mode of transport taken to travel to the Games. The most respondents travelled to the games via car 72% or bus/coach 22%.
STAYED FOR 2 NIGHTS 63% STAYED IN TAMWORTH 96% TRAVELLED BY CAR 72% SPENT BETWEEN $500-$1,000 IN THE REGION
POST EVENT SURVEY
Communication fromown Academy
POST EVENT SURVEY
Overall Experience
All respondents were asked to rate different aspects of their own sporting event based on their experience. When respondents were asked about the scheduling of games/competition majority (88%) indicated that the schedule was just right.
All respondents were asked to rate the amount of games/competition that they experience suitable.
POST EVENT SURVEY
Overall Event Feedback
The 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games has once again demonstrated why this event stands as a highlight on the regional sporting calendar. A thorough review of survey responses paints an overwhelmingly positive picture, with attendees expressing strong satisfaction across most aspects of the event The ongoing commitment to acting on participant feedback continues to drive meaningful improvements year on year.
At its core, the Academy Games exist to unite athletes, families, and the broader community through sport. The 2026 edition delivered on this vision, with strong attendance, a competitive atmosphere, and a genuine sense of community spirit evident throughout the event. With participation interest continuing to grow, the organising committee remains focused on evolving the Games, including the potential introduction of new sports in 2027 and beyond.
We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to grow the event into the fu
CLOSING REMARKS
Sue Charles - Regional Manager, Northern Inland Academy of Sport
The 2026 Your Local Club Regional Academy Games have once again showcased what is possible when communities, partners and sporting organisations unite behind a shared purpose
As we reflect on another outstanding event in Tamworth, we do so with immense pride and deep gratitude The success of these Games belongs to everyone who contributed, the athletes who competed with determination and pride, the coaches and managers who guided them, the volunteers who generously gave their time, and the supporters who brought such energy and enthusiasm.
We extend our sincere thanks to our major partners for their continued investment in regional sport and in the futures of young athletes across New South Wales. To our valued partners, Clubs NSW (Your local club), the NSW Government, Tamworth Regional Council, Regional Australia Bank, University of New England, Wests Entertainment Group and Tamworth City Toyota, your support continues to elevate the Games year after year.
To our media partners, NBN News, 95.5FM, 92.9FM and TMFM, thank you for helping us share these stories with the wider community Your coverage brings the spirit of the Games to those who could not be there in person, and that reach matters.
Behind every successful event is a dedicated team working tirelessly behind the scenes To my team at the Northern Inland Academy of Sport, particularly Pip and Martin, your commitment, professionalism and passion are central to the seamless delivery of this event A special mention must also go to Emily and Shona for their outstanding support, guidance and coordination throughout both the lead-up to and delivery of the Games. Thank you all for the enormous contribution you make to the success of this event. My gratitude also extends to the RAS staff, particularly the convenors, and the Board, along with the State and Local Sporting Associations, whose collective efforts are woven into every aspect of these Games
We also extend our sincere thanks to the venues and facility staff who hosted competitions throughout the weekend. Your support, flexibility and willingness to showcase your outstanding facilities played a vital role in delivering a high-quality experience for athletes, officials and spectators, and in highlighting Tamworth as a premier regional sporting destination
And to the parents and guardians, the unsung heroes of every Academy Games, the kilometres you travel, the early mornings you endure and the unwavering encouragement you provide does not go unnoticed. You are an essential part of what makes this event so special.
As we close the chapter on the 2026 Games, we do so with excitement for what lies ahead. The talent, dedication and sportsmanship on display throughout the weekend are a testament to the strength and depth of regional sport in New South Wales, and we cannot wait to see what these young athletes go on to achieve.
