Rimutaka GymSports (Upper Hutt, Wellington), with around 380 members, has secured $11,000 in coach and judge education funding from Aotearoa Gaming Trust, showing a strong example of how strategic preparation and teamwork can unlock meaningful investment in our sport.

The application was led by committee member Mike, who worked through course requirements, travel costs, and pathway details to ensure the proposal was clear, accurate, and aligned with development goals. He was supported by Jo (head of women’s artistic), who mapped the club’s training needs from grassroots through to World Gymnastics Level 1, connected directly with coaches and volunteers, and worked with her relationship manager to help bring a junior coach course to Wellington and significantly reducing travel costs. Brooke (club manager) completed the process by supplying the required governance and financial documentation.

This coordinated approach identifying need, aligning priorities, preparing evidence early, and sharing the workload, resulted in a compelling application and a successful outcome.

Funding of this nature plays an important role in strengthening capability across gymnastics in Aotearoa. Investment in coach and judge education supports higher-quality delivery, consistent standards, and stronger pathways for athletes at every level. When clubs are well organised and clear about their development priorities, they are better positioned to secure the support that enables growth.

Congratulations to the Rimutaka team on a well-earned result and a great example of planning in action.