Thanks to the introduction of distance learning options for coach development, Triathlon New Zealand (Tri NZ) now has accredited coaches in eight countries around the world. The diverse mix includes Malaysia, the US, Australia, India, Germany, Thailand, Saudi Arabia and of course New Zealand.
While several coaches are Kiwis who are now based overseas, the majority are internationals who have found that the Tri NZ programme suits their needs.
Tri NZ Coach Manager Brett Reid believes the international interest underlines the quality of coaching resources available in New Zealand. “One of the values underpinning the Tri NZ Coach Development Programme is accessibility, and coach development opportunities need to be easily accessible for busy coaches,” Reid said.
He added, “This was a key reason for providing a distance learning option for the Level 1 and Level 2 programmes. We wanted coaches to be able to get on and complete the programmes when it suited them. As well as accessibility, I believe this also reflects the quality of the programmes and the clear process coaches need to follow to complete the programme.”
Reid said that while most of the overseas coaches are unlikely to coach in New Zealand, it’s great to be able to contribute to the wider development of the sport and complement the fantastic work being done in coach development by the International Triathlon Union (ITU).
“It reflects the high regard Kiwi athletes and coaches are held in worldwide.”
One of the coaches to benefit from Tri NZ’s Coach Development Programme is Amir Hashmi from Malaysia. Hashmi received his Tri NZ Level 1 Coach Accreditation six months ago and is now assisting the Malaysian head coach Peter Lau during weekend training sessions. His group of athletes has now grown to more than 20, ranging in ages from 10 to 18 years of age.
Hashmi is grateful to have had help from the Tri NZ Coach Development Programme and believes it’s a huge step to promoting and improving the sport of triathlon around the world.
“We recently managed to send a relay team to the Asian Championships in Japan last month, and had some good results,” Hashmi said.
“I continue to learn a lot during training sessions, especially when the head coach has to concentrate on older athletes and gives me freedom with the 13 and under athletes. Thank you to Triathlon New Zealand.”
Further details about Tri NZ’s coaching programme can be found online.
