Our People: Jarvy Aoake

Let's get to know our Sport Development and Coaching Team Leader, Jarvy Aoake.

How is rugby part of your life?

Since I was 13, I've consistently been involved in rugby most winters, whether playing, coaching, or supporting at least one team every year. I was lucky enough to play over 100 games for my club Napier Old Boys Marist. I also played for the Magpies to represent my home province of Hawke's Bay for a few seasons in the NPC.

Over the years I have coached secondary school boys and girls, club men's and women's, and provincial and national representative teams.

Why do you love rugby and coaching?

As a teenager, my dad was a big motivator for me playing rugby and it was he that created my opportunity to play for St. John's 1st XV. I really enjoyed being part of that team, the guidance from my coaches Albie and Patrick, the camaraderie with the boys, the overall environment, and the challenge of playing at that level. This is where I believe my love for the game began.

Since then, I've been fortunate enough to be involved in some high-quality environments. Ones that fostered individual growth while bringing others along on the journey. Creating lasting bonds and memorable moments from some unforgettable games and achievements.

As a coach, it has always been a key motivator to help recreate the same memorable experiences I had. To empower players to reach their potential and achieve their goals within the sport.

What other sport, active recreation and play opportunities do you have a connection with?

At high school, I tried a few other sports including hockey, squash, surf life saving, canoe slalom, canoe polo, and more.

For recreation, I try to spend some time diving and spearfishing, or surfing and hiking when I can. I also enjoy loading up the truck with the whānau for camping trips.

These days, play usually involves negotiating the ever-changing rules of playground tag with my son. Accepting that they might evolve based on the environment or who is in! We also enjoy hut building, whether it's in the lounge or the bush behind our house.

What encouragement would you offer to someone who was wanting to try coaching or to be more involved with sport?

Give it a go, and bring a mate along to do it with so you can support each other! At the end of the day, coaching is about creating a fun learning environment that challenges and supports everyone, including the coaches. Start small and go from there.

Tell us about your role at Sport Bay of Plenty.

As the Team Leader for Sport Development and Coaching, my key responsibility is to lead and support our team of Sport Development Advisors and the Girls and Women's Lead. We advocate for improved sporting systems and structures across the region to grow participation and create better quality experiences for all involved.