Last week I had the incredible privilege of attending the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) x High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) ASPIRE Program - an initiative to bring together Women in High Performance Coaching. Out of 64 New Zealand applicants, only 10 female coaches were selected, and across the Tasman, more than 100 Australian coaches applied for just 30 places. I feel very grateful to have been part of such an inspiring and forward-thinking group.
The program focused on developing female leaders within high performance sport, exploring themes such as self-awareness, strategy, performance culture, system understanding and people development. We also unpacked some of the systemic barriers that limit women’s progression in coaching - from organisational structures and cultural expectations, to visibility, allyship and, importantly, a sense of belonging.
It was both confronting and empowering to reflect on the current landscape for women in high performance coaching and to connect with so many passionate, capable wahine toa determined to drive change.
I’ve come away from Canberra energised, with a renewed sense of purpose to continue growing as a coach and leader, and to help further establish environments where women and girls not only participate, but thrive!
