Southland athletes have until Monday (20 Feb) to apply for a place in this years SBS Bank Academy Southland intake.

The two-year programme supports promising young Southland athletes to achieve their goals in sport and life, Academy Southland co-ordinator Carly Anderson said.

“We are looking for talented local athletes who are representing Southland and are looking to go to the next level.”

Programme support includes mental skills training, nutrition, athlete life and strength and conditioning, including use of the Mike Piper Training Centre.

The Academy has also been able to provide support to a wide range of sports, from traditional codes like rugby and netball through to adventure racing and disc golf.

“Our goal is to help those athletes to achieve at their best, as well as providing inspiration for all Southlanders," Anderson said.

"Over the past two decades we have been amazed at some of the things athletes have gone on to achieve, both in their chosen sport and in life.”

Recent Academy graduates include 2022 SBS Bank Tour of Southland winner Josh Burnett and Olympic gold medal-winning sevens player Alena Saili.

CLICK HERE to view an application form.