Sport Otago's Coach Development Workshop series is back for 2026, with a fresh new format to help you grow your skills, confidence and coaching impact.
This year we’re offering three pathways to suit every coach: Foundation (for new or developing coaches - 0-3 years' experience), Competitive (4+ years' experience, those coaching at rep or performance levels) and Online (open to all coaches).
We’re also thrilled to welcome an epic lineup of guest speakers, including: Jolene Casey, Aaron Callaghan, Michael Jacobs, Jodi Brown, Cole Beckstead, Uili Kolo’ofai, Jo Morrison, and Raylene Bates..
Our vision and heart behind these workshops is the holistic growth and development of all coaches. Developed by Sport Otago Community Sport Advisor William Hola, with input and endorsement from regional sports organisations across Otago, these workshops are designed to be relevant, practical, and impactful for coaches from all sporting codes and all levels.
Each workshop supports you at every stage of your coaching journey with practical tools, expert guidance, and a focus on embracing the person, not just the performer. You’ll leave inspired, connected, and ready to make a positive difference in your club, school, or community.
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN
- Stronger communication and leadership skills
- Practical tools for connecting with athletes of all abilities and backgrounds
- Improved confidence and clarity in your coaching approach
- Knowledge to support safe, positive, athlete‑centred environments
- Strategies for building team culture, resilience, and belonging
- Understanding of holistic coaching – developing the person, not just the performer
Registrations are now open – secure your spot through the links below. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone come along and get involved.
FOUNDATION WORKSHOPS
For new coaches and those with up to 3 years’ experience. Covers fundamentals, practical coaching tools and builds coaching confidence. Also suitable for experienced coaches wanting a refresh.
What to expect:
- Mix of discussion, practical tools, and real‑world coaching examples
- Opportunities to connect with coaches from your region
- Insights from experienced guest speakers and Sport Otago staff
- Take‑home resources to support your ongoing coaching
Cromwell
Waitaki
- Venue: Network Waitaki Event Centre (Upstairs Meeting Room), Ōamaru
- Date: Wednesday 1st April
- Time: 6pm - 8pm
- Speakers: Jo Morrison (Netball NZ) and Uili Kolo'ofai (Former Tonga International Rugby Player, Pacific Juice Podcast)
- Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/DPLU9tJ0x1
Dunedin
- Venue: Zingari Richmond Rugby Club, Dunedin
- Date: Friday 17th April
- Time: 6pm - 8pm
- Speakers: Jodi Brown (General Manager Basketball Otago, Former Silver Fern) and Cole Beckstead (General Manager Dunedin Ice Hockey)
- Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/YKfbqYAEic
Wānaka
Queenstown
- Venue: Queenstown Events Centre (Upstairs Meeting Room), Queenstown
- Date: Wednesday 29th April
- Time: 6pm - 8pm
- Speaker: Michael Jacobs (High Performance Sport NZ)
- Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/snMEy22tSK
Balclutha
- Venue: Cross Recreation Centre (Tyrone McElrea Lounge), Balclutha
- Date: Monday 4th May
- Time: 6pm - 8pm
- Speaker: Michael Jacobs (High Performance Sport NZ) and Jo Morrison (Netball NZ)
- Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/QPMcLkv2Dy
COMPETITIVE WORKSHOPS
For coaches with 4+ years’ experience or coaching rep/performance squads. Focus on performance coaching, competition environments, and high‑level coaching models.
What to expect:
- Mix of discussion, practical tools, and real‑world coaching examples
- Opportunities to connect with coaches from your region
- Insights from experienced guest speakers and Sport Otago staff
- Take‑home resources to support your ongoing coaching
Dunedin - South/North Otago Zone Workshop
- Venue: Zingari Richmond Rugby Club, Dunedin
- Date: Monday 11th May
- Time: 5.30pm - 8.30pm
- Speakers: Raylene Bates (Athletics NZ National Development Manager (South) and Para Lead), Michael Jacobs (High Performance Sport NZ) and Jo Morrison (Netball NZ)
- Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/nUPrkunUrz
Wānaka - Central Zone Workshop
- Venue: Upper Clutha Rugby Clubrooms, Wānaka
- Date: Wednesday 20th May
- Time: 6.30pm - 8.30pm
- Speakers: Michael Jacobs (High Performance Sport NZ), Jolene Casey (Otago Hockey) and Aaron Callaghan (Rugby Educator - Otago Rugby Union)
- Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/nUPrkunUrz
ONLINE WORKSHOPS
Open to all coaches. Part of our three-phase Coach Development Workshop series delivery throughout the year. Supports ongoing learning across the region.
North/South Zone
- Monday 15th June, 6pm–8pm
- Save the Date - Details TBC
Central Zone
- Wednesday 17th June, 6pm–8pm
- Save the Date - Details TBC
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