Under 15 Development
Training to train and learning to compete. Athletes will see themselves to improve their technical skills and develop tactical understanding.
Learning to Compete
Phase Three, "Training to Train," in the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model is a crucial period for hockey players, typically ranging from ages 12 to 16. During this phase, athletes transition from simply learning and enjoying the sport to focusing on developing the foundational skills and physical capacities essential for future high-performance play. The emphasis is on consolidating technical skills, enhancing tactical understanding, and building a solid fitness base, including strength, endurance, and speed. Players are introduced to more structured and intensive training sessions that balance skill development with physical conditioning. This phase is critical for instilling discipline, refining technical abilities, and developing game sense, setting the stage for athletes to progress to higher levels of competition with a well-rounded skill set and physical ability.
U15 In-Season Development Programme
Programme Timeline
Parent Information Evening | Monday 7 July
An online information session for parents will be held on Monday 7 July, providing an overview of the programme and answering any questions before the programme begins.
Development Days | Sunday 20 July & Sunday 27 July
The programme kicks off with two Development Days held exclusively at the National Hockey Stadium, introducing core concepts and setting a foundation for the training sessions ahead.
U15s: 10:30AM - 12:00PM
Weekly Training Sessions | Sundays, 3 August - 21 September
To make the programme as accessible as possible, we’ll be running sessions across three key locations on Sundays at the following times. Players can select the hub that suits them best during the registration process.
U15 Sessions:
NHS & Fraser Park: 10:30AM - 12:00PM
Kapiti: 5:00PM - 6:30PM
End-of-Season Events
U15 Lower North Island Tournament
1–4 October | Boys: Wellington | Girls: Wairarapa
Teams are streamed into two tiers based on ability, experience, and motivation, ensuring every player is placed in an environment where they can thrive and develop.
Lower North Island U15 Tournament cost is $500 per player. A deposit of $100 has been applied on top of the programme cost - select "U15 ISDP and Tournament" during registration to attend. A separate invoice will be sent out at a later date for the remaining balance.
Who Can Register?
In order to register for the Wellington Hockey U15 In-Season Development Programme, players must be under the age of 15 years old as at 1st January of the year in which the tournament is played. They must also be in Year 9 or above (those eligible for U13 tournament are ineligible).
Why Join?
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Expert coaching and support
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Focused skill development
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Fun, engaging sessions
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A pathway into festival and tournament opportunities later in the year
Whether you're aiming to grow your skills for school hockey or want to prepare for representative tournaments and festivals, this programme is a great opportunity to keep developing across the season.
Programme Cost
The registration cost for participating in the U15 In Season Development Programme is $255 per player. This covers the cost for all training sessions and development days. The U15 Tournament costs covers travel & transport, tournament accommodation, meals & recovery food, tournament entry fee, sundries.
How to Register
Registrations are now open on PlayHQ and will close on 11 July at 5:30PM. Spaces are limited and expected to fill quickly – register today to secure your spot!
