Due to the Academy covering the whole of Scotland and running during the off-season, it will use a variety of innovative techniques including online interactice learning through specialised coaching/learning tools, online discussion and video analysis. There will also be whole group, local group and individual sessions all geared to deliver a rounded experience.

The Academy will be led by the STA High Performance Director (HPD) but will include input from some of the best UK and European Coaches together with some specialised advice from strong connections with Australian and New Zealand-based coaches. The purpose of the Academy will be to push young and developing players from Representative or International Level to reach their potential as Elite players who are dominating the sport at the highest level. Special individual programs, feedback and analysis will be combined with take-home challenges to test and develop every aspect of the players. The Academy will be separate from National and Regional Training and will be conducted at a variety of venues around Scotland.

Entry
Players will be invited into the High Performance Academy by the HPD. There will be no application process. At a high level, selection is being factored towards players under 25 who are seen to have the potential to become future leaders and key players in Scotland national teams over several years. However, exceptions may be made for certain individuals over 25 and indeed within the Senior sides, should circumstances suggest these individuals will suit the program.  National coaches and the High Performance Director will choose invitees to the Academy based on the following key attributes/

Key attributes of Academy Members will be:

• Commitment to the sport at club and representative level.
• A potential physical skill-base allowing for Elite level performance given physical development (strength, fitness, co-ordination)
• A potential for mental development to Elite level performance if given opportunities to test knowledge, awareness, maturity and decision making.
• Leadership skills that are either already evident or can be developed to a level where the Member can benefit players around them
• Enthusiasm to learn in new ways, test themselves through group and individual learning and a willingness to be self-aware and self-critical with the objective of personal improvement.

Look out for news on the first batch of Academy Members during late 2012.