Netball at Ivanhoe Edge

An Insight into Ivanhoe Edge’s Netball Coaching Program with Olivia Lewis

When the opportunity arose to join the Ivanhoe Edge team, Liv Lewis couldn't resist. "I was really excited by the opportunity to work with athletes on a more 1:1 basis, helping with more specific skills and giving coaching with a more high-performance spin," she shares enthusiastically. This passion for personalised athlete development sets the tone for the entire Ivanhoe Edge program.

Reflecting on her time with Ivanhoe Edge, Liv exclaims, "I've loved it! It's rewarding to see the growth of each individual over the school year." The satisfaction of witnessing students' progress fuels her commitment to the program, making her an integral part of the team.

One of the standout advantages of the Ivanhoe Edge program is the opportunity for individual growth. "It's an opportunity to develop skills with a more specific focus, and time for individual growth rather than focusing on the team (which you rarely get in netball)," Liv explains. This emphasis on personal development allows students to hone their skills in a supportive environment.

In an Ivanhoe Edge netball session, students can expect a dynamic and engaging experience. "We try to have a bit of fun and change it up every session. There'll be clear skills developed on the court, but also a taste of some more high-performance behaviours, like video analysis, nutrition, and goal setting," she says. This holistic approach ensures that students receive comprehensive training that extends beyond the physical aspects of the sport.

Small group and one-on-one sessions are a cornerstone of the Ivanhoe Edge philosophy. "I get to give much more direct feedback, and it helps me tailor the sessions to fit each individual's needs," Liv notes. This personalised attention not only accelerates skill development but also builds a stronger coach-athlete relationship.

The bond between Liv and her students is further strengthened by their support during her games. "It's really nice! I feel very invested in their netball journeys, and I feel that from them as well. It also means they can keep me accountable and make sure I'm practicing what I'm preaching!" she reveals. This mutual investment fosters camaraderie and a sense of accountability within the group.

For Liv, the most rewarding aspect of her role is seeing her athletes progress. "It's always just so rewarding to see any progress in an athlete, big or small. That's the thing I love most about coaching, seeing growth and progression," she reflects. One memorable success story underscores the impact of her coaching: "There was a student who initially struggled with confidence on the court. Through consistent effort and our focused sessions, she not only improved her skills but also became one of the team's standout players."

Looking to the future, Ivanhoe Edge is excited to launch Junior Edge, a program designed for our younger students. "It's never too early to start developing specific skills, and it's an awesome program for students who love their sport and want to improve," Liv affirms. The early introduction of skill specific training can set the foundation for lifelong athletic development.

Liv's approach to coaching is deeply rooted in making the sport enjoyable. "I try to make it as enjoyable as possible. I think that as soon as sport stops being fun for an athlete, it makes it very difficult to feel motivated to improve," she explains. Additionally, she emphasises the importance of giving athletes a voice: "Making sure they feel heard and giving them opportunities to speak up about what they need and want to improve on."

With a focus on individual growth, skill development, and athlete empowerment, Ivanhoe Edge provides a nurturing environment where students can thrive and achieve their full potential. Under the guidance of dedicated coaches like Liv Lewis, young athletes are equipped with the skills and confidence they need to succeed both on and off the court.