Tertiary students can play and learn

Will Johnston 

School leavers don’t need to make a decision about pursuing top-level sport or education, thanks to a new sports academy.

The Witt Sports Academy will give school leavers an opportunity to continue their high-level sport while working towards a tertiary qualification.

It’s also inviting scholarship applications from school leavers who wish to start their tertiary education while maintaining their athlete status.

“This is about collaborative support for young sportspeople to help them achieve their goals,” said WITT health and wellness manager Kieran McKendry (pictured).

He said the purpose of the academy was to connect people to their future and through the sports academy, they’re able to provide world-class sports science and training facilities to support young Taranaki athletes.

Successful athletes will be provided individual programme planning, testing and resources for exercise, physiology, biomechanics and strength and conditioning while having their first year of course fees covered – saving up to $7500.

It doesn’t stop there either; athletes’ coaches will also be involved with the aim to recognise and develop new talent.

“Whether individuals are into surf lifesaving, basketball, kayaking or something else, Witt Sports Academy will be equipped to provide the comprehensive testing required to support their peak performance in those sports,” McKendry said.

State-of-the-art testing and training equipment is included in the academy, with some gear the first of its kind available in Taranaki.

McKendry will lead a team of sports science specialists who will work with athletes, their coaches and mentors to provide complete support through training and competition.

"The team will support emerging and high-performance athletes to be their best while providing them with a platform to succeed academically," he said.

Other sports academies in Taranaki put the focus on education.

Stratford-based FEATS run a Maori and Pasifika Rugby Academy but for NCEA Level 1 and 2 students.

An official launch event for the Witt Sports Academy will take place in December.