Selection for the High-Performance Program occurs through a combination of:

• Emerging Sharks Trial performance (for U16–U18 athletes)

• Ongoing evaluations throughout the year

• Coach recommendations

• Demonstrated commitment and readiness for elite training

• Performance history and developmental trajectory

U20 athletes do not trial and are instead considered based on coach feedback, performance evaluations, training history, and overall suitability for the demands of the program.

To be considered, athletes must first be a 2026 Sharks Representative Player.