Our Story

Welcome to Kaipara Academy, where we are dedicated to providing the highest quality youth athletic development coaching for every young athlete. Founded by Fionn, our mission is simple yet profound: to offer every young boy and girl the opportunity to access a tailored and age-appropriate athlete development pathway, regardless of their background in sport or skill level.

Essentially, this programme embodies what Fionn wished he had access to as a young athlete more than two decades ago. The programme is based on best practice and strongly influenced by his professional, educational, and athletic background, drawing from the wisdom imparted by some of the finest educators, practitioners, and coaches in Ireland and across the world.

Our approach is grounded in the Irish proverb "tús maith leath na hoibre," meaning "a good start is half the work." At Kaipara Academy, we aim to build movement skills and healthy and sustainable habits that not only enhance performance in sports but also contribute to long-term health and success in life.

Kaipara - The Name

Fionns journey to founding Kaipara Academy began in 2011 during a formative work placement at the New Zealand Sports Academy in Whangarei. Working with young Maori rugby players, on their athletic and life skill development ignited Fionns passion for supporting young athletes as they navigate many physical and psychological challenges during adolescence. Kaipara, pronounced "Ki-Para", derives its name from the Maori word for "athlete".