There is no secret that there have been some uncontrollable factors in trying to bring our hockey community together. After a few years of adjusting to an online environment, it was great to bring Associations staff together in person for a residential workshop.
The pilot residential workshop was hosted by Hockey NZ on the 6-8 December 2022, in Auckland. The workshop was designed to support the connection and collaboration of the hockey system and provide a critical overview of the national direction for hockey to support leadership of local systems. There was also an opportunity to break into specific focus areas of Inclusion (Disability focus) and Coach and Official Development.
The workshop captured 21 individuals from 12 associations from Northland to Southland. Invitations were targeted at Individuals who were new to their role, and/or working in areas of Inclusion or Coach and Official Development.
The feedback from the workshop has been valuable. It highlighted the importance of bringing Associations together to meet, connect, and share learning, as well as. exposure to the Levels of Perspectives to better understand how to lead long term system change.
What was Covered
The workshop provided all attendees with an opportunity to:
The group then shifted into two smaller groups to provide targeted support in the areas of Inclusion and Coach and Official Development.
Inclusion
Association staff enjoyed the opportunity to hear from leaders in the disability space including Halberg Foundation, Golf NZ, and our Associations who are already delivering local programmes.
There was a hands-on opportunity to understand the design and implementation of programmes, looking at modified equipment and delivery techniques.
Coach and Official Development
An understanding of the national coaching plan and the changes taking place, as well as resources and support available.
Association leaders were able to grow their understanding of collaboration, and provided an opportunity to share priority areas with peers to identify connection points within and outside of the hockey system.
What is Next?
Feedback from Association staff and facilitators was captured, and will play a vital part in designing the future engagement opportunities with our Association staff.
There was unanimous support for reinstating face to face connection points for Associations and through the feedback, future opportunities will be designed and a long-term vision created.
Information from the workshop has been sent out to all Associations to ensure those who were not involved, have an opportunity to access relevant resources. Those that were involved have been encouraged to share with their local community and with other Associations.
Our Delivery Team
Hockey NZ was supported by a highly capable team of facilitators. These included Trainers Emma Phelps, Jolene Casey, Sophie Rider, and Sunjay Ganda, alongside external facilitators from Halberg Foundation, Golf NZ, and Oceania Hockey.
Hockey NZ would like to acknowledge and thank all the facilitators who have supported the design and delivery of the residential workshop.
