IOWNIT - STUDENT TESTIMONIALS 

Isabella Bancks  

1st XI FOOTBALL TEAM, HB SWIMMING REPRESENTATIVE  AND PAST IONA COLLEGE SPORTS PREFECT 
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IOWNIT has helped my sports fitness and motivation and reduced injuries in both my sports. One of the most important parts of the programme was that I was able to train with like-minded athletes from our school. Being around students who love sport and are dealing with the same busy schedules as me was awesome. The trainers who are a part of the Athlete Development Programme are extremely helpful, not just in terms of the strength and conditioning aspect but also the mental and sports psychology side. They do a great job building our mental capacity for challenge and ensuring our mental health is prioritised as part of the training. This was especially beneficial for me as a Year 13 student dealing with NCEA requirements while maintaining a busy sports schedule.  This programme has given me the confidence and motivation to stay fit and healthy, even after leaving school, and continue working towards my sporting goals no matter the challenges along the way.​​​​​​​

Yvette Scatchard ​​​​

IONA COLLEGE 1ST XI HOCKEY 2021-PRESENT 

​​​​​​​I have learnt many valuable skills from the IOWNIT programme that I will carry with me throughout my life, not just in sport. I have learnt to push myself and put in the effort to get what I want out of it. Learning to use gym equipment safely has been something I have enjoyed, as it allows me to use new equipment and training techniques and make sure nobody gets hurt. Although I haven't always enjoyed the early morning wake-ups, I have found that it is a great way to start the day and now it doesn't seem like much of a struggle to get up. Since I  started the IOWNIT programme I have seen many improvements in my strength and overall fitness. It has helped me to identify areas for me to work on, through feedback from trainers. I am so glad that I was given the opportunity to help me get closer to achieving my sporting goals through IOWNIT.