Bunnings Coaching Legends

Nominations are now open

Coaching Legends is a Bunnings initiative that celebrates the everyday heroes of local sport — the volunteer coaches who give their time, energy and heart to help others thrive.

From soccer and netball to cricket, rugby and more, community coaches play a vital role in building confidence, teamwork and a lifelong love of sport.

Through Coaching Legends, Bunnings aims to shine a spotlight on these unsung legends, recognising the positive impact they have in communities across Aotearoa. The programme supports grassroots sport by acknowledging outstanding volunteer coaches and helping clubs access practical resources that make a real difference at a local level.

Anyone can nominate a coach who inspires them — whether they’re shaping young players, supporting inclusive teams or going the extra mile for their club. Selected Coaching Legends are celebrated for the difference they make and the values they bring to their communities.

At Bunnings, we believe strong communities are built when people look out for one another. Coaching Legends is our way of saying thanks to the coaches who help make that happen, week in and week out.

Nominate now

By applying, you agree to the Coaching Legends - Terms and Conditions. 

Your information will be handled in accordance with Bunnings Privacy Policy.

 

Criteria and guidelines

Click here to access the Bunnings Coaching Legends Program Terms & Conditions.

Click here to find a downloadable Coaching Legends poster to spread the word within your club or community.

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Five volunteer coaches will be recognised and rewarded with a Coaching Legends kit, featuring limited‑edition coach merchandise and Bunnings gift cards for both the coach and their club.

One standout coach will win an unforgettable experience, with a high‑performance sporting professional joining them and their team at their club for a training session - sharing skills, inspiration and confidence.

Five volunteer coaches from across Aotearoa will receive $5,000 in Bunnings products and materials for their club, and be invited to attend the ISPS Handa Halberg Awards, where they will join some of New Zealand’s most celebrated sporting figures. One will be named Bunnings Coaching Legend of the Year and receive $25,000 for their club, recognising an exceptional contribution to community sport.

Rugby League | Coaching Legends Ambassador

Shaun has built his career around backing the people beside him - encouraging confidence, creativity and belief. Shaped by great coaches early on, he knows progress comes from patience, trust and turning up for your team, even when things don’t click straight away. That mindset is what helps communities grow stronger through sport.

Community • Resilience • Teamwork

 

 

Rugby | Coaching Legends Ambassador

Portia leads with generosity, humility and belief in others. Originally guided by a netball coach who saw her potential and challenged her to keep growing, she understands the power of encouragement - especially for young players finding their voice. She’s passionate about creating environments where people feel supported, connected and proud to be part of a team.

Community • Resilience • Teamwork

 

 

Basketball | Coaching Legends Ambassador

Brook is the kind of leader who lifts everyone around him. Known for calm decision‑making and trust in his teammates, he reflects the influence of coaches who valued effort, discipline and doing the basics well. He believes great grassroots sport is built on teaching confidence, respect and the importance of playing your role for the group.

Community • Resilience • Teamwork

 

 

Football | Coaching Legends Ambassador

Francis believes the strongest teams are built on consistency, work ethic and looking out for one another. Shaped by his first coach, his dad, he’s learned that resilience comes from preparation and trust. Beyond being a player, his own coaching program focusses on growth, inclusion and helping players feel confident contributing to something bigger than themselves.

Community • Resilience • Teamwork

 

 

Cricket | Coaching Legends Ambassador

Amelia credits her development to coaches who prioritised learning, patience and belief over results. Known for her calm approach and team‑first mindset, she understands how powerful good coaching can be in shaping confidence - especially for young people still finding their place in sport and in themselves.

Community • Resilience • Teamwork