Hockey NZ hosted its annual National Developer Residential Workshop in Mount Maunganui, with the support of Tauranga Hockey. The three-day event brought together 14 new Developers from 7 Associations, and focused on enhancing their skills in coach development.

Building Future Leaders

The National Developer Residential is a key component of Hockey NZ’s National Coaching of Coaches Development Programmes. By empowering Developers, we are building a strong network of coaching leaders who will continue to elevate the quality of coaching and experiences for our officials and players across the country.

The success of this year’s workshop is a testament to the dedication and passion of our Developers and Trainers, as well as our outstanding hosts, Tauranga Hockey. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this training event will have on the hockey community.

Highlights of the Workshop

Networking and Collaboration: The workshop provided a platform for Developers and Trainers to connect and share experiences, fostering a collaborative environment that will benefit the hockey community in the long term.

Professional Development: Participants engaged in intensive training sessions, gaining valuable insights into the Developer Approach. This hands-on experience ensured they could effectively support the growth of coaches across the country.

Cross-Code Learning: The inclusion of a Trainer and Developer from cricket organizations enriched the learning experience, allowing for the exchange of different coaching strategies and perspectives.

Quality Facilitation: The workshop was led by Trainers Danielle Cranston, Kelly Hudson, Bevan Nichol, and Joe Piggott, with support from Lisa Williamson, Simon Insley, and oversight by Ben Owers. Their delivery made the workshop highly interactive and insightful. Additionally, the trainers enhanced their own skills and knowledge through practical facilitation review and the sharing of ideas.  

List of Developers involved

Neil Watson (Rotorua), Guy Strawbridge (Canterbury), Rory Crawford (Canterbury), Maggie Martin (Canterbury), Carey Wessels (North Harbour), Jay Dhanjee (North Harbour), Hamish Carr (Tauranga), Lance Workman (Tauranga), Kaye Barnett (Tauranga), Kelly Newlands (Wellington), Matt Fraser (Wellington), Chris Neal (Waikato), Stu Pitu (Waikato) and Truman Wee (Waikato).

List of Trainers involved

Lead Trainers: Danielle Cranston (Hockey NZ), Kelly Hudson (Tauranga), Bevan Nichol (Waikato) Joe Piggott (Canterbury).

Support Trainers: Lisa Williamson (Hockey NZ), Simon Insley (North Districts Cricket)

Image: Developers and Trainers involved with the 2025 HNZ National Developer Residential.