The Emerging Sharks Program forms part of the SDBA’s redesigned development pathway for U12–U18 representative athletes, providing a structured, long-term training environment that builds strong basketball foundations. 

The program runs for 10 months, with weekly morning sessions from January to August, moving to two sessions per week from August to October. Athletes also take part in school holiday camps, physical testing, and ongoing performance monitoring, all delivered by highly experienced coaches. The focus is on skill development, concept play, and key association themes to support long-term growth.

The Emerging Sharks Program also serves as the pathway into the High-Performance Program (HPP) for athletes aged U16–U20.

• U16–U18 athletes may be selected into the HPP based on performance at the Emerging Sharks trials, ongoing assessment throughout the year, and coach recommendations.

• U20 athletes will be considered for HPP selection based on coach feedback, performance evaluations, training history, and demonstrated commitment.

The Emerging Sharks Program gives motivated young athletes a structured, professional pathway to continue progressing through the Sharks development system—and for some, an opportunity to advance into the elite High-Performance Program.

The Emerging Sharks Program costs $750 for the full 10-month program.

This fee includes:

• Weekly morning training sessions from January to August

• Two training sessions per week from August to October

• Quarterly school holiday development camps

• Physical testing and athletic performance monitoring

• Access to experienced program coaches and skill specialists

• A structured development curriculum focused on fundamentals, concepts, and association themes

• Emerging Sharks gear provided to selected athletes

This fee supports all aspects of the program, offering U12–U18 athletes reliable, high-quality development opportunities across the year

Training times and venues for the 2027 program are still being finalised. Sessions will run across the full program period (January–October). Confirmed details will be shared with all selected athletes and published on the SDBA website once available.

• Basketball 
• Drink Bottle
• Sharks program reversible singlet

If you have any further queries email development@sutherlandbasketball.net.au

Players in our Representative program are eligible for Emerging Sharks. If you’re interested or would like more information, please email development@sutherlandbasketball.net.au.