The Hockey NZ and NZ Cricket Trainer Programme wrapped up in late 2025, completing a 16month pilot project designed to grow the capability of people in sport development leadership roles across hockey and cricket. It brought together coaching, umpiring, and competition leaders for an integrated professional development experience.
Across the 16 months, participants engaged in face‑to‑face workshops, action learning projects, small group connections, mentoring, and reflective practice. This structure created an environment where meaningful learning could take place, with individuals able to apply insights directly into their regional contexts.
At the heart of the programme were four core development themes.
These themes guided the design of each learning session, supporting participants to grow in confidence, connection, and capability.
Hockey NZ participants
The programme was enriched by the contribution of seven hockey representatives: Lisa Williamson (Hockey NZ), Joe Piggott (Canterbury) Ethan Booth (Canterbury) , Bevan Nichol (Waikato), Nicky Smith (Waikato), Cameron Wilson (Auckland), Kirsten Stuckey (North Harbour).
Their involvement strengthens the pool of skilled sports leaders across Aotearoa and supports the wider ambition of building a connected development network.
Programme facilitation
The programme was co‑led by experienced facilitators from both national bodies
Partnership and support
The programme was supported by Sport NZ, and we thank them for their contribution, which helped make the project possible.
Looking ahead
Participants now bring enhanced capability back into their positions and communities, and Hockey NZ looks forward to further collaboration with NZ Cricket as we continue to strengthen the development workforce across both sports.
