Tenga Rangitauira wins HNZ award for outstanding contribution to coaching
Tenga Rangitauira, a prominent figure in the Bay of Plenty hockey community, has been awarded an HNZ Outstanding Contribution to Coaching award. In 2022, Tenga served as a coach for the secondary school boys' team at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ruamata (TKKM o Ruamata), leading the team to victory in the Johnson Cup in Christchurch and securing their qualification for India/Rankin in 2023.
His incredible work didn't stop there, as he concurrently coached the primary and intermediate teams for TKKM o Ruamata. His coaching extends beyond TKKM o Ruamata. He provided valuable mentorship to Waiariki Māori Hockey coaches during the National Māori Hockey Tournament and offered administrative and coaching support to the Aces Mens Hockey Club. These endeavours reveal Tenga’s commitment to enhancing the sport at every level.
Tenga’s coaching approach is underpinned by HNZ’s core coaching beliefs, but in particular he has a strong understanding of the game, shows leadership through service, and adaptability through learning from others.Tenga’s deep understanding of the game shines through his long-term approach with school teams. His methodology begins with teaching fundamental skills to young primary students at TKKM o Ruamata, using Māori proverbs to impart hockey concepts. As players grow, he layers more complex lessons, preparing them to play effectively by the time they reach high school. His successful coaching, despite limited student numbers, led to their remarkable victory in the Johnson Cup.
His leadership through service is demonstrated by his involvement in the Waiariki Māori Hockey Ropu and the Rotorua Aces Hockey Club, both of which his father founded in the mid-1990s. Tenga's adaptability in taking on different roles – whether player, coach, manager, or administrator – based on the club's needs shows his selfless commitment to the betterment of his community.Tenga’s learning from others is evident by his humility and eagerness to incorporate new ideas into his coaching. He adjusts his approach to fit his players best, continually enriching his coaching philosophy. His adaptability and prioritisation of his players' development have resulted in not just great hockey players but also exemplary individuals.
His impact on hockey in New Zealand is widespread, but particularly prominent in the Bay of Plenty region. He has shaped the coaching landscape, providing hundreds of kids with valuable guidance, and maintaining a player-centric approach while instilling a competitive spirit.
His impressive coaching history spans various teams and levels from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ruamata Primary School mini/maxi teams (2020-Present) and mixed Intermediate team (2012-Present) to the Rotorua Aces Men, where he played and coached intermittently (2010-2014), and serving as assistant coach (2017-2022), his influence is undeniable.
Tenga Rangitauira's contribution to Māori hockey has left a lasting mark, with players across New Zealand recounting personal stories of his influence on their hockey journey. His impact goes beyond the sport, shaping lives and strengthening communities. This award is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding contribution to hockey in New Zealand.