Regional Pathway and Performance
The Regional Pathway and Performance Program develops U14, U16, and U18 athletes through structured training, expert coaching, and individual development plans while managing workload for long-term growth.
A High-Performance Training Pathway for Aspiring Athletes
The Regional Pathway and Performance Programme is designed for identified and aspiring athletes seeking a high-quality development environment. Prioritising training over competition, we strongly encourage athletes to play only one level of hockey per season to manage workload effectively. This programme focuses on long-term athlete growth, providing structured training that fosters skill mastery, game awareness, and creativity.
U16 and U18 athletes will train twice a week, with sessions on Tuesday nights and Thursday mornings. U14 athletes will have one session per week, with the schedule to be confirmed. Each athlete will follow an individual development plan tailored to their needs, supported by quality coaches and specialists in nutrition, psychology, and athlete well-being. This holistic approach ensures that players not only refine their technical abilities but also develop the mindset and physical resilience required for high-performance hockey.
Aligned with Hockey New Zealand’s performance direction, the programme ensures appropriate training loads to support sustainable development. Athletes in Year 12 and below will be limited to four to five training contacts and one match per week. Year 13 athletes may take on additional training, but this will be determined through consultation with the Pathways and Performance Manager, parents, school, and club coaches to maintain the right balance of challenge and workload. Specific workload limits will also apply to U14 athletes. Players already engaged in both club and school hockey will not be considered, as the programme is designed to complement existing commitments rather than contribute to overload.
More than just a training initiative, this programme is a junior high-performance environment designed to prepare athletes for the next level. With a focus on technical excellence, tactical intelligence, and individual creativity, it nurtures well-rounded players who can thrive in elite hockey. Through expert coaching, specialist support, and a clear performance pathway, athletes will have the foundation to grow, compete, and reach their full potential.
Programme Summary
U16 & U18 Athletes: Training twice a week on Tuesday nights and Thursday mornings.
U14 Athletes: One session per week (schedule to be confirmed).
Individual Development Plan:
Each athlete will follow a tailored plan supported by quality coaches and specialists in nutrition, psychology, and athlete well-being.
Skill Mastery & Game Awareness:
Emphasising technical excellence, creativity, and tactical intelligence.
Workload Management:
Prioritising training over competition to support sustainable development. Athletes are encouraged to play only one level of hockey per season to balance workload effectively.
Year 12 & Below:
Limited to four to five training sessions and one match per week.
Year 13 Athletes:
May take on additional training, but only with consultation with the Pathways and Performance Manager, parents, school, and club coaches.
U14 Athletes:
Specific workload limits apply to ensure development is appropriate for their age.
No Double Commitment:
Players already engaged in both club and school hockey will not be considered for the programme to avoid overload.
Holistic Development:
The programme is designed to nurture not only technical skills but also the mental and physical resilience required for high-performance hockey.
The Regional Pathway & Performance Programme is more than just training—it's a junior high-performance environment that prepares athletes for elite hockey. With expert coaching and specialist support, athletes develop a strong foundation to grow, compete, and reach their full potential.