Last week, we were proud to host a World Gymnastics level 1 academy, bringing together 40 coaches from across New Zealand for five days of learning, connection, and assessment.
The academy included coaches from men’s and women’s artistic, trampoline, and tumbling, combining high-quality lectures with formal examinations. Successful participants now receive a World Gymnastics level 1 diploma, an internationally recognised coaching qualification.
The academy was delivered by an outstanding group of World Gymnastics experts:
- Jo Richards (WAG – Australia)
- David Hill (WAG – Australia)
- Igor Bespalov (MAG – Australia)
- Angie Dougal (TRA – New Zealand)
- Thomas Holman (TRA – Australia)
- Will Morris (TUM – Australia)
Their expertise and passion created a high-quality learning environment for all involved.
It was also encouraging to see several national team athletes attending in their capacity as coaches, highlighting the growing connection between athlete and coaching pathways.
Highest Scoring Participants
- Women’s Artistic Gymnastics (WAG)
- Molly Stebbings – Whangarei Academy of Gymnastics (overall highest scorer)
- Lauren Irving – Counties Manukau Gymnastics
- Kate McNabb – Rimutaka Gymsports
- Men’s Artistic Gymnastics (MAG)
- Uladzimir Lukashevich – Te Wero Gymnastics
- Logan Curtis – Hutt Valley Gymnastics
- Trampoline and Tumbling (TRA/TUM)
- Bronwyn Dibb – Christchurch School of Gymnastics / Olympia Gymnastic Sports
- Maddie Davidson – Olympia Gymnastic Sports
- Dylan Schmidt – Olympia Gymnastic Sports
Beyond the technical learning, the academy created valuable opportunities for coaches to connect, build relationships, and strengthen networks across regions and disciplines, helping foster a strong and collaborative coaching community in New Zealand.
We extend our sincere thanks to Olympic Solidarity for its generous support, and to the demonstrator gymnasts from Counties Manukau Gymnastics, NHG, Icon Trampoline, Tri Star Gymnastics, Howick Gymnastics Club, and Hutt Valley Gymnastics for their important contribution throughout the week.
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