The better the quality of the coaching, the better the experience of the participants – that’s one of the main takeaways to emerge from a recent Sport NZ survey.

For this reason, District Associations and Major Associations within the South Island have identified the need to have coach developers assigned to the various festivals and tournaments that are held during the season.

The initiative aims to increase the quality of the experience for both coaches and players during the festivals and tournaments each year.

It also provides the opportunity to embed “Balance Is Better” philosophies within the team environments.

Balance is Better is an evidence-based philosophy to support quality sport experiences for all young people, regardless of ability, needs and motivation.

It is about young people staying involved in sport for life and realising their potential at the right time for them.

The system is designed to engage coaches prior to an event so they can provide learning and support during it.

The host Districts are responsible for making their coach developer/s available to lead the learning and support for all coaches attending.

This system provides a supportive and growth-focused environment, in which these coaches can offer the best possible experience for players.

Hunter Kindley, coach of the Dunedin Year 11 & 12 team spoke positively of the initiative.

“The coach developer gave plenty of opportunities to support the coaches prior to, and during the festival, through informal conversations as well as observing,” said Kindley.

“I thought he did a great job”.

NZC Regional Coach Development Manager, Toby Doyle, sees many positive aspects associated with the initiative.

“It gives Otago and Canterbury the best chance to create positive and memorable experiences for the players who participate,” said Doyle.

“NZC’s Coach Development team is excited to build on the success of this initiative in partnership with Otago Cricket and Canterbury Cricket.”