New Zealand Football introduced the Regional Training Centre (RTC) (More info) programme in 2020 to increase engagement and contact time with a wider group of young players as a strategic shift away from one-off national camps. The RTC’s provide greater interaction with our prospective U-17 and U-20 national team players in camps around the country. During the pilot phase RTCs were offered in Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland for the Boys, and Auckland for the Girls. 

The programme offers two-three day training contact at specific times of the year for identified players who are showing potential to become future All Whites or Football Ferns. Each RTC will provide an aligned coaching environment for National Team coaches to connect with players at a regional level.

The centres will support each player’s development and best prepare them for future international football while also providing players a continuous identification opportunity in front of National Team staff. National team coaching staff will attend and lead each centre while being supported by local coaches and specialists. RTC’s will offer opportunities to specialists in Physiotherapy, Analysis, Goalkeeping and Sports Science to work in and be exposed to the NZF National Team environment.

The NZF Regional Training Centre is on-going and the gate is never closed to players wanting to be considered for inclusion into the programme at any time. Players within the appropriate age groups that are performing well at the highest level will be considered for selection by NZF and Federation staff. 

WaiBOP Football may also offer one-off events that provide players with extra opportunities to be observed and considered for invitation into the programme.

Boys Regional Training Centre (RTC)

Details for 2024 to come.

Girls Regional Training Centre (RTC)

Details for 2024 to come.

Please contact Ken Cresswell for more information: email ken.c@waibop.co.nz.