Football Programme
Along with the innovative, flexible, and dynamic academic curriculum of Ao Tawhiti Unlimited Discovery the comprehensive player development programming is designed for the motivated players from throughout New Zealand and the Oceania region to receive the individual attention that can take young players to new levels in their game.
Specialised football trainings will be conducted 2 mornings per week and include both individual, small-group and position-specific practices to help players take their game to new levels. The daily training scope will include a combination of both technical and tactical trainings, video learning + feedback meetings. Scheduled competitions will also be a part of this specialized football development.
Football Institute Coaching Team
Paul Holocher
Head of Academy, Methodology
Former US Soccer midfielder, who played professionally both in United State and Europe. Paul was the Academy Director and Director of Formation for two MLS Clubs (San Jose Earthquakes and Houston Dynamo) as well as a 15-Year NCAA college head coach.
Paul holds a USSF Academy Director’s License, along with the prestigious FFF (French Football Federation) Elite Coaches Formation License.
Ryan Edwards
General Manager, First Team Coach
Before joining Christchurch United, Ryan held roles as the Head Coach and Director of Football at Petone FC, preceded by his position as a professional Academy Head Coach at Wellington Phoenix.
At Petone, his team flew up the table from 9th place in Central League to the clubs first ever promotion to National League in 2023.
His reserve team achieved back-to-back promotions, the women's team finished in the Top 3 of Central league, and in consecutive seasons the club achieved a semi-final and final finish in the main draw of the U19's National tournament.
Ryan has a strong reputation for excellence and a keen eye for youth talent development. His Petone side were the youngest club side in Central League and National League in 2023.
Jakub Hosnedl
Residency Manager
Jakub is a footballer from the Czech Republic, who holds a EUFA B License and has extensive experience working with the Czech Republic FC. Jakub is a coach in both the Juniors and Academy, as well as the club’s residency manager.
Travis Graham
First Team Player
Travis is a footballer from South African born in Ottery, Cape Town, who is now a member of the first team Christchurch United FC. He has represented Ajax Cape Town, Cape Town City, Cape Umoya and recently Maritzburg United in his professional career.
Selection Criteria:
The program is open from motivated student/athletes from throughout New Zealand and Oceania. Due to the limited number of spots available for this unique and specialized program, selection procedures will include evaluation of the candidate’s academic and football profile.
Academics: The academic program is designed for students who enjoy a dynamic and innovative ‘learn by doing’ approach. The curriculum will cover all required NZ courses (English, Math) along with specialized course in Sports, Business and High Performance. The program is a combination of active teaching, mentorship, group and independent work. Required: Academic transcripts and in some cases personal interview.
Football: The football program for ambitious players who would like to take their overall football development to new levels. The assessment of the candidate’s footballing profile will be made based on current playing levels and desire to go to the next levels. Required: Completion of Player Letter of Interest and Questionnaire and in some cases playing video.
Application Process: Once applicants are received, students/families will be contacted on next steps to be considered for final selection/enrolment for 2025.