Taupō Sport Series

Ready to strengthen your sporting journey? Join us in October and November for the Taupō Sport Series. Come along to one or all four sessions focused on supporting athletes, coaches & whānau with expert insights and meaningful conversations that enhance sporting experiences both on and off the field.

When: Wednesdays 14, 21, 28 October and 4 November 2026, 6:30–8:00pm
Where: Taupō Events Centre - Function Room
Cost: $10 per session or $30 for all four, teen athletes free with a paying adult.
Food: Tea, coffee and biscuits provided

What’s Included

⭐ Session 1 – Strengthening Parent-Coach Relationships. Target audience Coaches
Explore practical ways coaches and parents can work together to create positive environments for young people in sport with the guidance of Dave Mackay from Sideline Advisor. This session will unpack common challenges, improve communication strategies, and help build stronger partnerships that support athlete development and enjoyment.

⭐ Session 2 – Sports Nutrition for Performance and Wellbeing. Target audience Athletes, Whanau & Coaches
Join experienced Clinical and Sports Nutritionist Jo Burban for an engaging session focused on fueling active athletes. Parents and athletes will gain practical nutrition knowledge, simple strategies for training and competition days, and a better understanding of how food supports performance, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

⭐ Session 3 – Inclusive Sport. Target audience Coaches/Sport Administrators/Event Coordinators
Discover how to create sporting environments where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and able to participate. This session will explore practical approaches to inclusive coaching and leadership, helping clubs and coaches support a wider range of participants and build a stronger sense of belonging through sport. Lawrence from Hallberg is a wealth of knowledge in this field.

⭐ Session 4 – Sport Psychology and Athlete Wellbeing. Target audience Athletes, Whanau & Coaches
This session will equip athletes with practical mental skills to build confidence, manage pressure, stay focused, and perform through challenges. We'll explore athlete identity, resilience, and strategies for handling nerves, distractions, setbacks, and change. Attendees will leave with tools they can apply both in sport and everyday life. Provided by Megan Williams from Wellform Psychology

Whether you're a coach looking to develop your practice, a parent wanting to better support your child, or an athlete interested in learning from experienced practitioners, the Taupō Sport Series offers practical, relevant learning and the opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about great sporting experiences. This series has been made possibly thanks to support from Contact Energy.