Women’s National League footballer Maddi Ollington balances training and playing with a full time job — and she has two part time coaching roles as well.

She took up coaching in 2023, when she was approached with a role as Junior Development Officer in 2023 at Te Aroha Cobras Junior Football Club.

Two seasons into coaching, Ollington has found her stride, and thoroughly enjoys the time spent coaching young players. 

The role at Te Aroha Cobras led to a second opportunity in 2024, when she joined RH3 Football Academy as Women's Development Officer for Waikato and Bay of Plenty. 

"It's a great opportunity to connect with younger females coming through and showing them where they can end up playing if they strive for it."

Ollington's football journey began in Reporoa, where she played multiple sports from age five. By the time she got to Rotorua Girl’s High, football was her main focus, playing for both school and Rotorua United. Her next step was Hamilton Wanderers in the women's Northern League.

Maddi Ollington: Coaching at RH3 National Camp, Hamilton, January 2025. Photo RH3

After two years playing college football in New Jersey, USA, she returned to New Zealand to join the police force. She continued her football career with Hamilton Wanderers and earned selection for the WAIBOP National League team, captaining the side in 2019.

When the National League changed from federation-based to club-based competition, Ollington played for Hamilton Wanderers in the NRFL Premiership from 2021-2023. She now plays for Ellerslie AFC in Auckland.
For players thinking about coaching, Ollington says: "Start with junior coaching qualifications and reach out to local clubs. There are often opportunities available — you just need to take that first step."

She believes good coaches need multiple skills. "Knowledge of the game and understanding tactics and strategies are important, but a coach also needs leadership skills to inspire and motivate players, as well as good communication and empathy."

Ollington juggles her coaching roles at Te Aroha Cobras and RH3 Academy with her police career and playing commitments at Ellerslie AFC.

She’s open to future coaching opportunities. “I’ll go with the flow, and take opportunities when they arise.”
 

Article added: Sunday 16th March 2025