Triathlon

2026

Applications for the 2025/26 intake are now CLOSED

To be notified when the next intake opens, click here to register your interest

The HAS triathlon program forms an integral component of the Triathlon Athlete Development Pathway. This program is designed to assist the individual athlete’s development so that they progress further in the sport with a strong focus on providing greater skill development, strength and conditioning support and physical preparation.

Athlete Benefits

The following benefits will apply to those selected in the program:

Skill Development Sessions Focused on the Skills Specific to the Sport of Triathlon (bike, run, swim)
Access to a Network of Specialised Coaches
Athlete Education in Topics such as Sport Psychology, Leadership and Sports Nutrition
Strength and Conditioning Testing and Feedback
Compete at targeted TriNSW Events in the Billigence Championship Series
Access to Recovery Clinic and Recommended Physiotherapists
Squad Inter-Academy sessions with CCAS
Training Peaks Tracking of Athlete Development
Academy Games Inter-Academy racing weekend and Camp in Tamworth
Optional Camp opportunites as offered by Triathlon NSW

Eligibility

To be eligible for the 2025/26 Program:

Athletes must be between 13 and 18 years of age as at 31 December 2025 (2007-2013)
Reside within the Hunter Region
Attend School within the Hunter Region
Registered with a Local Club/Association or directly with Triathlon Australia
Athletes considered for selection in the program should possess physical and behavioural attributes that are considered essential to progress to a standard to be selected as members of the TNSW Emerging Talent Squad in the following 2-3 years.
Demonstrate a Dedication to Improving Performance
Be able to commit to all planned HAS Program Events

Selection Process

Each applicant is reviewed by an independant selected panel of coaches, administrators and invited representatives. The HAS decision/s regarding athlete selection is based on objective and subjective measures and the HAS hold final responsibility for the selection of athletes.

Program Information

The Triathlon program runs from September – April targeting specific TriNSW events such as the Billigence series and certain local Triathlon club races. Skills sessions are scheduled around these key events once the calendar is finalised each year.

Program Staff

Head Coach: Nicky Western

Nicky holds a Performance Coach qualification in triathlon, a Development Coach accreditation through AusCycling, a Level 1 certification in Strength and Conditioning and a Level 2 accreditation with Athletics Australia. Nicky has been Head Coach of the Hunter Academy triathlon squad since 2017 and has been instrumental in progressing young athletes through the Academy program into NSW squads. Nicky’s focus for Academy athletes is to have an holistic approach to training, ensuring balance between sporting, academic and social aspects of life. Her expertise lies in developing training opportunities that focus on skill enhancement, race tactics, psychological skills and problem solving, ensuring athletes are fully equipped to race to their potential. Nicky is a competitive age group triathlete achieving her 3rd win at World Championships in 2024.