Sporting codes call for focus on fun this winter - a podcast by RNZ

Five of the largest sporting codes are calling for a focus on fun this winter season, rather than a competitive push that's putting young players off. The codes - cricket, netball, hockey, football and rugby - have joined Sport New Zealand to take a "collective stand" after last year's Covid-disrupted playing season, with the aim of getting parents and coaches to engage players more positively. It builds on a Statement of Intent signed in 2019 by NZ Cricket, NZ Rugby, NZ Football, Hockey NZ and Netball NZ with Sport New Zealand that recognised early-specialisation and extended training at younger ages was limiting children's enjoyment of sport, and leading many to quit. Kathryn talks to Alex Chiet, Sport Development National Consultant at Sport NZ, Hockey New Zealand CEO Anthony Crummy and Netball New Zealand's CEO Jennie Wyllie.

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