Academy of Sport
The Toi Ohomai Academy of Sport is designed for ambitious athletes who want to pursue sporting excellence while gaining a recognised qualification and preparing for a successful career.
Whether you're competing at regional, national or international level, the Academy provides the support, flexibility and connections you need to balance your sporting commitments with your education.
Based in Rotorua, the Academy brings together academic study, athlete development, performance support and industry connections, helping you achieve your goals both on and off the field.
Many talented athletes feel they have to choose between pursuing their sporting dreams and gaining a qualification.
The Academy of Sport allows you to do both.
Through flexible learning pathways and tailored support, you'll be able to continue training and competing while working towards a qualification that sets you up for success long after your sporting career.
What You’ll Gain
- Flexible study options; study around your training and competition schedule while working towards a recognised qualification.
- Programme choices; choose to study at certificate, diploma or degree level over a wide range of course options
- Athlete Support; access guidance and support to help you balance the demands of sport, study and life.
- Performance Development; learn from experienced coaches, industry professionals and performance specialists.
- Industry Connections; build relationships with sporting organisations, employers and professionals across the region.
A Proven Legacy
The Academy builds on the successful legacy of the Waiariki Academy of Sport, which helped generations of student-athletes achieve their educational and sporting aspirations.
Many graduates have progressed to regional, national and international competitions while also gaining qualifications that have supported successful careers in sport, business, health, education and community leadership.
The Academy is led by Jane Borren, who brings extensive experience in athlete development, education and sports management.
Having previously managed the highly regarded Waiariki Academy of Sport, Jane understands the unique challenges faced by student-athletes and is passionate about creating an environment where learners can thrive.
"Our goal is to help athletes realise their potential both in sport and in life. We want students to leave the Academy with the skills, confidence and qualifications they need to succeed in whatever path they choose."
2027 Scholarships - Now Open!
Applications are open for places, with scholarships available, for talented and elite sportspeople in any sport.
Value: Scholarship range is $2,500 to $10,000 depending on potential and performance history.
Scholarships Available: Multiple
Open Date: Monday, 9 November 2026
Closing Date: Wednesday, 6 December 2026
Decision Date: Monday, 11 December 2026
Tenure: One year, with renewal option after sport/academic review
Our Team
The highly New Zealand and Internationally experienced Academy of Sport Performance Team will provide support services to you and your coach, in alignment with your sport, to maximise development and performance.
Our Services
These include on-site gym and recovery facilities, training/racing testing and monitoring, sport science and medicine services (including provision by HPSNZ local providers), and wellbeing and life coaching support.
Our Academy Athlete Structure
Tier 1 Athletes: outstanding potential and performance history.
Tier 2 Athletes: excellent potential and performance history.
Tier 3 Athletes: for talented secondary school athletes (Year 11 onwards) and ambassador athletes – Tier 3 on invite.
This is an opportunity to prioritise your sport while pursuing a tertiary qualification at any level in your choice of study.
Any scholarship awarded can be used to cover tuition and study fees, accommodation and living costs, and sport-related costs