Touch New Zealand in partnership with our four regional entities are excited to announce the launch of our new National Development Programme.

The purpose is to provide a Touch New Zealand (TNZ) framework to guide participant development opportunity within the under 16 age group environment. For players, this will be the 'Emerging Players Programme". 

The programme is designed to provide players and management a first taste and experience of Touch components relevant to their level within the game. 

Touch New Zealand Community Coaching Manager George Jahnke says “We have so much talent and love for the game in the rangatahi space, let’s aim to take more on the development and ‘love for the game’ journey, 

Giving development opportunities and positive experiences for our rangatahi, coaches, referees and management is important. Utilising the strengths of regions to expand the framework is a positive step in the right direction.”

This concept will replace the traditional Touch New Zealand U16 Talent ID camps and will pave the way for our next generation of Touch Blacks. 

Rather than holding a single U16 event, the program will move to a regional approach, held over 4 events throughout Aotearoa. This change will ensure the opportunity is made available for more of our emerging touch players as well as our pathways coaches, managers and referees. 

See below for dates & locations: 

• Te Wai Pounamu - 30th September 2023 – Christchurch
• Ngā Wai Rau - 7th October 2023 – Hamilton
• Te Ohu Ikaroa - 14th October 2023 – Palmerston North
• Tāmaki Makaurau - 28th October 2023 – Auckland

Registration EOI's & further information will be released in the coming weeks. 

Article added: Friday 28 July 2023