Robinson worked with the Swifts in 2008 and 2009, taking the side to a victorious championship win in the 2008 ANZ grand final.

She has now travelled north across the border to take on the assistant coaching role of the Queensland Firebirds this season.

In between her commitments, Robinson will be available for the NCAS squad with the aim of preparing the players for the state trials in October-November.

“I am happy to be back working with the North Coast youngsters again as it’s important for NCAS to provide a strong presence in the NSW academy structure,” she said.

“NCAS has a long history of selecting and developing talented North Coast netballers to go on to further representative honours – such as past athletes Kimberly Borger (Frederickton), an Australian U21 representative and AIS scholarship holder and selected as a NSW Swifts player 2010; and Verity Simmons (Grafton), a current AIS scholarship holder 2010 and Australian U19 representative in 2009.

“There are also numerous players who have played in the top netball competition within Australia including Lauren Berger (Yamba), Mel Groves (Mullumbimby) and Megan Rooney (Coffs Harbour).

“That means we have the talent on the North Coast.

“It’s just a matter of finding it and developing the players to take the next step.

“That’s why I’m encouraging all netballers within the age range to stand for selection in the 2010 squad.

“I’m looking forward to working with coaches from throughout the region to further develop their skills, so that players along the North Coast can benefit.”

NCAS is pleased to announce a new coaching team to help Robinson.

Assistants Narelle Stokes (Port Macquarie) and Christine Sironen are well-known and respected in the North Coast region.

Their experience, knowledge and commitment to increasing the level of player will be of great benefit to the Academy.

Development coaches Rachelle Watson, Karen Mills and Kim Sheridan have been identified with the potential and dedication required to develop their coaching skills to the next stage.

Trials for the NCAS 2010 netball squad will take place in Coffs Harbour on Saturday, March 13.

Application forms are available on the NCAS website www.ncas.org.au or phone the office on (02) 6620 3073.