NAM completes One Nico national talent selection

The Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) says it has concluded the national talent selection programme was held in Lilongwe from August 19 to 26 under the One Nico Talent Scouting Programme.

NAM general secretary Yamikani Kauma said in an interview yesterday that the camp marks a significant milestone in NAM’s ongoing rebuilding drive aimed at creating a sustainable talent development pathway and strengthening the future competitiveness of Malawi’s national teams.

Mlia-Ndasauka: Talent development is an investment for the future. | Nation

“A total of 100 players from across the country participated in the final selection camp after being identified through a nationwide talent identification exercise conducted in 2025 and through outstanding performances at the 2026 Malawi Schools Sports Association National Youth Games,” she said.

Kauma said that during the eight-day programme, players underwent intensive technical, tactical, physical and psychological assessments conducted by NAM’s technical team.

She said: “Following the evaluations, 40 players have been selected into the NAM High-Performance Development Programme, where they will receive structured development support as part of the association’s Long-Term Player Development Programme.

“The selected players represent a broad geographical spread across Malawi, reflecting the success of NAM’s efforts to identify talent beyond traditional netball strongholds and ensure national inclusivity in player development.”

Nico Group corporate affairs manager Mbumba Mlia Ndasauka said they are proud to partner with NAM in a programme that is creating opportunities for young women across the country.

“Talent development is an investment for the future, and we are encouraged to see the programme identifying players from all the regions. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that create pathways for excellence, leadership and national pride through sport,” she said.

The One Nico Talent Scouting Programme began with a nationwide scouting exercise conducted in all districts of Malawi in April 2025. During the exercise, 316 players were identified as possessing potential for further development.

In a statement, NAM satd one of the strongest trends emerging from the programme is the clear relationship between height and long-term development potential.