In 1993 the eleven Otago country schools requested that their students should receive coaching sessions three-four times a year. This would mean their students would not have to travel to receive coaching.

Four rounds of visits are attempted, although some schools may require less. The first and fourth round of visits (Term 1 and 4) will be for summer sports. In term four, because of senior exams, many schools will choose to involve only their juniors in this. The two rounds of visits (Term 2 and 3) will involve winter sports although volleyball and specialist athletic coaches may also be available.

The visits have to involve at least two schools on the same day. A normal round of visits would involve the following groupings over six days spread over a three or four week period:

• Tokomairiro and Catlins Area
• South Otago and Blue Mountain
• Lawrence Area and Roxburgh Area
• East Otago and Maniototo Area
• Dunstan, Mt Aspiring and Cromwell (stay overnight in Wanaka)

Coaches can range from profile players to qualified coaches to physical education students who are keen to become teachers. Some are paid by their sporting organisations while others receive no payment. Some have had considerable dealings with secondary school students while others may have had very little.

All expenses of petrol, food and accommodation are paid for by the OSSSA. A person who is not involved with the coaching, will also travel to each school. During the visits that person will check how coaches, especially new ones, are handling their coaching duties. This is also a good opportunity to discuss other related issues with staff on a one to one basis.

The following guidelines should be used by schools:

• In the first instance coaches should be coaching students who have a commitment to that sport. A place must be available where troublesome students can be sent.
• If this is not suitable and entire classes are divided amongst the coaches the normal classroom teachers must be present to assist.
• Coaching sessions should be between 45 and 60 minutes. In some instances with top teams and top coaches longer sessions could be catered for.
• Local coaches, should be encouraged to be involved. Unless they are told they will not know this opportunity exists to see other coaches in action.
• Co-operation with the media and local sponsors representatives.

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