Youthtown backs triathlon development programme

Thanks to the ongoing support of Youthtown, Triathlon New Zealand is thrilled to confirm the appointment of six Regional Youth Development Officers (RYDO’s) to assist in managing the growth and interest in the sport at youth level.

With the sport continuing to boom and experience strong growth, Triathlon New Zealand has for some years now identified youth and in particular the school sector as an important one in the future health of the sport.

The RYDO’s have a brief to work with teachers, parents and the youth triathletes to both capture and retain participants in the sport, by improving skills for all coaches and participants and working closely with those showing elite potential.

The first focus is to identify opportunities that allow youth to participate in the sport and to provide support for school programmes.

Youth Development Office Mel Warmerdam is delighted at the continuation of the programme and the quality of those appointed to the roles.

“The six RYDO’s appointed have a great knowledge of triathlon and are truly excited about getting youth active in triathlon. They are all steeped in the sport either as athletes or coaches and have that natural enthusiasm for triathlon that is needed when looking to lead or inspire youth.

“The programme is exciting and has some real potential to develop into a valuable asset for the sport of triathlon, something it is only just starting to realise. The RYDO programme generated a lot of positive interest in the regions last season, this year we hope to grow these opportunities and continue the benefits of such a programme.”

Tri NZ is indebted to Youthtown for their continued support of the programme with both parties sharing similar goals and objectives for the youth of New Zealand, to get them active and involved in healthy sport and pursuits that will have benefits far beyond any individual sport.