Hockey Wairarapa are hosting an FIH Level 2 Coaching Course. Expressions of interest are now open and spots are limited.

Lower North Island Associations are seeking Expressions of Interest from coaches wishing to participate in the FIH Academy Level 2 Coaching Course, to be delivered through a blended online and face-to-face format in September 2026.

The FIH Academy Level 2 Coach qualification is an internationally recognised coach development programme designed for coaches operating within competitive or performance environments. This opportunity supports coaches to:

• Explore concepts of how to coach
• Design Learner Centred, game relevant sessions
• Understand Attack - Defence - Transition Game Principles & Tactics
• Understand the technical skills needed to perform specific individual principles
• Explore how to coach technical skills in a game relevant session

The course will be led by James Birkefeld, Wellington Hockey Pathways & Performance Manager and Lower North Island Catchment Coaching Lead. Additional educators from around New Zealand will support delivery of the online components.

Course Delivery

Attendance at all four Level 2 course sessions is required.

Online Sessions

• Monday 21 September 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm
• Wednesday 23 September 2026, 7:00pm to 9:00pm

Face-to-Face Sessions

Venue: Hockey Wairarapa Trust House Hockey Turf, Carterton

• Friday 25 September 2026, 6:00pm to 9:00pm
• Saturday 26 September 2026, 8:30am to 12:30pm

Online Workshops

In addition to the online and face to face sessions, Coaches must attend two online workshops to complete their FIH Level 2 Coach accreditation. These workshops will be delivered following the course:

• FIH Foundation Goalkeeper Workshop (October, date TBC)
• FIH Technical Skills Workshop (October, date TBC)

Coaches are strongly encouraged to attend these workshops. Coaches unable to attend may complete equivalent workshops through the FIH Academy.

Course Costs

Through Hockey New Zealand's Connected Network initiative, course fees have been subsidised.

• FIH Level 2 Course: $100 per person
• FIH Level 2 Course with accommodation: $130 per person
• Standard NZ L2C fee is $144.00
• FIH Level 2 Workshops: $25 per workshop (two workshops)
• Standard NZ online workshop fee is $44.00

The total cost for all components is $150 per person, or $180 per person if accommodation is required.

Eligibility and Selection

Places are limited to 10 Lower North Island-based coaches. If Expressions of Interest exceed the number of available places, Associations will be consulted to determine selection and ensure the programme delivers the greatest impact.

Priority will be given to coaches who:

• Are actively coaching within competitive or performance environments in the Lower North Island
• Are contributing to regional or national performance programmes, including National Hockey Championships, National U18 Championships, Association Development Programmes, or National Secondary School events
• Can apply the course learning directly within their current coaching context

Key Dates

• Expressions of Interest close: Monday 31 August, 12:00pm
• Confirmation of places: Friday 4 September

For full course information, including delivery requirements, workshop details, and eligibility criteria, please refer to the attached information document.