The Aquinas Sports Academy (ASA) was established in 2009 after extensive research and consultation with the school, its sports codes and community.

Applications for ASA classes for 2021 are now open.

Download the ASA Application Form 2021 here or pick up a paper copy from the Sports Office. Applications close on 4 December at 5.00pm – no late applications will be accepted. If references are delayed, they will be accepted conditional on application forms being submitted on time.

Current ASA members are required to re-apply for positions.

HOW WILL ASA BENEFIT PUPILS AT AQUINAS?

ASA will benefit all pupils involved in sport at Aquinas. An increasing body of  research supports the view that a well rounded academic and sporting based education develops students that are better equipped  to meet the pressures of the modern world.  Our own research reinforced this viewpoint and a generic not specific sport development model for the Academy was chosen.

HOW IS THE ACADEMY STRUCTURED?

ASA is managed by the Director of Sport, Bill Kite. He oversees two main streams of Sport development in the School. The first is a curriculum stream which develops and works with a key group of athletes. The second is within the infrastructure of the sports clubs and codes of the school. The Director works along side the clubs and their committees to provide resource and assistance to these hard working volunteers which make sport happen in the school.

HOW WILL ASA STUDENTS BE SELECTED?

There are three ASA classes, one at Year 8, 9 and 10. Pupils apply for selection. The selected pupils still spend the bulk of their time in their usual classes and attend ASA classes for two periods per week.

Widespread participation and achievement in sport is central to the mission of Aquinas College. The Director of Sport works with the Teachers-in-charge of various sports to support administration, sports funding, short and medium term targets and planning. AC Sport is also involved in sourcing and promoting the skill development of coaches.

WHO IS IN CHARGE OF ASA?

Mr Bill Kite is the Director of Sport. He has an extensive background in Secondary School teaching, having specialised in Physical Education (PE) and Mathematics for the past 20 years. He has also been heavily involved with coaching various sporting teams at all levels. His work history includes time as Sports Director and PE Head of Department at Dilworth School in Auckland.

Mr Kite’s role will encompass not only developing the ASA class programme and teaching, he will be involved in promoting sport at Aquinas and he will oversee the provision of coach development opportunities. He will also provide leadership in sport development.