At a recent working group meeting of key Regional Sport Organisations (RSOs), the structure of sporting code seasons was brought to the table. The changing seasons of sports has seen winter and summer seasons get longer and consequently, encroach on one another affecting the ability of people to play multiple codes.  

After in depth discussions, the group decided as a starting point, codes needed to better understand how each of their seasons operated and where they crossed over. It was decided a regional calendar should be created to highlight this.

The result of working together to develop a regional calendar has been a natural ‘next step’ as codes have been working collaboratively to address quality experiences and the Balance is Better philosophies.

RSOs currently involved include Netball Northern Zone, Northland Cricket, Rugby League Northland, Northland Rugby Union, Volleyball Northland, Northern Football Federation and Northland Hockey.  These codes all provided their 2019 calendar dates which included current structured competitions, regional tournaments, national tournaments and social competitions.  A working document was created to clearly show key elements of the seasons, in particular, where the different codes crossover.

A meeting is scheduled for mid-April with all RSOs involved to discuss what was clearly identified in the calendar. This will include the current crossover, possible problems they may be facing and how we may be able to work together to combat key elements for the betterment of all sporting codes and more importantly the participants involved.

Any sporting codes who are wanting to be involved and included in the collaborative sport code calendar and discussions are more than welcome to contact Tamara Heremaia, Youth Connector at Sport Northland – tamarah@sportnorth.co.nz.