Department: Performance Pathways
Reports To: General Manager - Performance Pathways

Purpose of the Role

The Emerging Pathways Coach is at the forefront of shaping the future of basketball in NSW - identifying, inspiring, and developing the next generation of talent. Working within Basketball NSW’s Performance Pathways framework, this role supports athletes aged U14-U18 as they rise through the ranks, building confidence and capability on their journey from grassroots to high performance.

This is more than coaching, it’s about unlocking potential. The Emerging Pathways Coach empowers young athletes to grow technically, tactically, physically, and mentally, while fostering a dynamic, inclusive, and high-energy learning environment. Guided by the FTEM (Foundations, Talent, Elite, Mastery) model, the role plays a critical part in creating resilient, skilled, and future-ready athletes who are prepared to excel at the next level.

Key Responsibilities

Athlete Development & Pathway Management

• Plan and deliver engaging, evidence-based training sessions for identified emerging athletes (U14-U18) for both metro and regional athletes.
• Implement and review programs aligned with the FTEM framework to ensure consistent athlete and coach development..
• Support the transition of athletes across Association, Regional Academy, State, and National levels.
• Collaborate with associations, academies, and coaches to identify and nurture emerging talent throughout NSW.
• Maintain detailed athlete progress records and communicate effectively with parents, coaches, and key stakeholders.

Coaching Collaboration

• Support and provide feedback with Association Directors of Coaching and Representative Coaches to align development approaches statewide.
• Deliver practical coach education workshops and provide constructive feedback during tournaments and representative rounds.
• Encourage coach growth by promoting ongoing learning, reflection, and collaboration within the BNSW coaching network.

Program Delivery

• Lead the delivery of key BNSW pathway programs including:
  • Talent Athlete Program (TAP)
  • Regional Academies of Sport Programs
  • D-League
  • Sporting High Schools
• Assist in the delivery of Basketball NSW pathway programs, including:
  • State Performance Program (SPP)
  • Developing Athlete Program (DAP)
  • Development Camps (CDP/MDP/U12 Skills)
  • January Development Tours
• Support Performance Pathways and Talent Development initiatives such as State Team Programs, Jamborees, and special projects.
• Engage and deliver education sessions that promote lifelong athlete skills such as self-regulation, goal setting, and resilience.

Culture & Leadership

• Model and promote BNSW’s BLUES values in every aspect of work.
• Foster a positive and professional environment that prioritises athlete wellbeing, personal growth, and inclusion.
• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, teamwork, and integrity within the pathway network.
• Actively identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with your responsibilities to ensure a safe and compliant working environment.

Key Relationships

Internal:

• GM - Performance Pathways
• Performance Pathways Team
• Finance & Administration Team

External:

• Network Coaches
• State Team Coaches and Managers
• Association Directors of Coaching (DOCs)
• Regional Academies of Sport
• Basketball Australia High Performance Team (Centre of Excellence Coaches, GM - Performance Pathways)

Other Basketball Activities

Basketball NSW supports staff remaining active in the sport through coaching, playing, officiating, or volunteering. Any such involvement must be disclosed and approved to ensure there are no conflicts of interest. Related commitments should be taken as annual leave or leave without pay.