While goal attack Mia Evans has been keen to jump on any scoring opportunity, Sharnee Behr has been rock solid in goal defence.

Despite playing different roles, the pair have formed a close bond since they first represented Illawarra four years ago.

Now, Evans and Behr are ready for their next journey together after being picked in the Netball NSW Emerging Talent Squad. The program aims to provide metro and regional athletes with a chance to excel at the sport.

See more: Lucas Ottaway seals win at NSW Interbranch Championships

Evans, 15, said she was proud to be picked in the squad alongside Behr.

"I've gone up through netball with Sharnee and it's great to have her by my side," the Figtree teen said.

"I've got a lot of growing to do but it is definitely the first step into my career. We had our first training session on Sunday. It was definitely a good eye opener to what to expect and what to do to keep growing."

Evans took up the sport when she was eight years old and went through the ranks at the Corrimal Netball Club.

She is a member of the Illawarra Academy of Sport, alongside Behr.

Highlights have included the pair securing bronze at the School Sport Australia Netball Under-15s National Championships in Caloundra earlier this year.

Evans, who is inspired by the likes of Giants Netball's Jo Harten, said she loved netball for several reasons.

"I like the passion that other girls have for netball and the team environment drives me to do my best," the goal attack said.

"I look up to the Suncorp Super Netball girls and players like Jo Harten who inspire me to become a better athlete and reach my goal [of playing at that level]."

Behr grew up representing the Wests Netball Club.

The Towradgi teen said she was excited to join Evans in the emerging talent squad.

"I'm pretty proud, it helps shows a different pathway through netball. Having Mia there makes things a little easier," Behr said.

"I love netball because I like getting to know different girls and nothing else matters when you hit the court. I enjoy the team work aspect."

More than 30 athletes from across the state were named in the emerging talent squad.

Illawarra junior Annalese Chadrawy, who now represents the Penrith association, has been included in the program. Shoalhaven's Emma Kearne was also picked. The teenager is poised to join the Illawarra Netball Association in 2020.

While you're with us the Illawarra Mercury is offering sport readers 20% off an annual digital subscription. Sign up to stay up to date with all the local sports you love for only $3 a week. Terms and conditions apply.