Youth Justice residence opens new Sports Academy

With early morning alarms set and energy high, up to 10 young people at Korowai Manaaki are set to embark on a new journey in the Sports Academy programme. The programme is a new initiative and a first for the residence.

The 12-week sport and fitness programme will give the young people the opportunity to learn about sport, fitness, nutrition and well-being. They'll also set goals, track their progress and compete in challenges.

It’ll test the staff too, who are getting involved with the training themselves alongside the young people.

The programme’s approach is grounded in Te Whare Tapa Whā with a strong focus on sport and fitness to support wellbeing, discipline, connection, and growth.

The unit is led by Team Leader Operations Kelly Maipi, former Kiwi Fern, who brings a strong passion for using sport as a pathway to positive outcomes.

Speaking to the group, Manager Residence Youth Justice Services and Residential Care Aimee Hunter told them that the programme would challenge them both physically and mentally.

“Make the most of the people in front of you to get the most out of this opportunity. Whether it’s here or anywhere else, I want you to remember that you have real talent behind you,” she said.

Hunter’s words were echoed by boxing legend Fa, who said he was looking forward to coaching the young men and getting into the first session.

“My mission and my role here is to pass on my knowledge. I see a lot of talent, I just require effort,” he told the cohort.

In our secure youth residences, sport not only promotes physical and mental health benefits, but it teaches the young people important values, like resilience and teamwork.

With so many former athletes among the workforce, it wasn’t hard to find kaimahi keen to get behind the programme.

The young people will be led by Maipi, a former Kiwi Fern who has represented New Zealand on the world stage.

The wider team also includes kaimahi who have played top level sport in rugby, rugby league, basketball and tag football.

The benefits of sport for young people are well known. These include improved physical and mental health, stronger pro-social behaviour, increased discipline and teamwork, and a greater sense of belonging, achievement, and connection.

Sport also provides an environment for positive engagement, to build relationships and connection to community.

“The talent which sits in our team is incredible,” said Hunter.

“I want you to make the most of it.”