sportscotland institute of sport today (Wednesday 17 August) joined Netball Scotland to announce women’s netball as the latest sport to benefit from sportscotland’s Gold4Glasgow (G4G) talent programme, designed to identify more Scottish athletes with the potential to compete on the world stage.

Today’s announcement is targeted at women over the age of 16 and at least 5”10 (178cm) tall who believe they have what it takes to succeed in the demanding and dynamic sport of netball.

Netball now becomes the sixth and final beneficiary of the (G4G) initiative that since 2009 has given individuals from all walks of life the chance for their hidden talents to be discovered in the likes of judo and track cycling. Successful applicants, with the right capability and aptitude may even compete at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Tony Stanger, Talent Manager at sportscotland institute of sport, explained: “I would encourage anyone who is interested to really go for it. We have learned a lot since we started our first Gold4Glasgow project and we are more convinced than ever that this approach works for athletes who are determined and believe they can succeed at elite level in sport.

“By helping to provide an opportunity for determined and committed people to represent Scotland at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, we are expanding participation in high level sports. The partnership between the sportscotland institute of sport and Netball Scotland will provide the expertise you need to help you get there but we need people who have the determination to do what it takes.

“One thing is for sure, you won’t get there if you don’t apply! We would encourage anyone to get in touch via the website www.gold4glasgow.com if they think they have what it takes!”

Denise Holland, National Coach at Netball Scotland, added: “We have created an elite training environment that will challenge athletes. The most important attribute is a positive attitude and a passion to be part of the Glasgow 2014 sporting challenge, I am proud of what netball has achieved and excited that this G4G project could elevate the Scottish Thistles to compete successfully on the International arena.”

The Gold4Glasgow Netball assessment event will take place on 2 October 2011 at a venue which is yet to be confirmed. Prior to this, all applicants will be sent an information pack with details of the project and a home testing pack. Those who are shortlisted will then be invited to the assessment day at which they will undergo interviews and a range of demanding physical and psychological tests.

Subsequently, successful applicants will continue to undergo training and assessments as athletes, in the hope they can fulfil their dreams in international netball competition.