Hockey New Zealand has appointed Toni Cumpston to the role High Performance Manager.

Cumpston (42) will be responsible for leading the development and management of a world class high performance programme for hockey in New Zealand.

She comes to Hockey New Zealand from Australia, where she was until recently a National Selector and also consulting to Hockey Australia on coach accreditation.

“Toni brings with her an incredible hockey pedigree and knowledge, that I know will take our elite programme to the next level along with building depth and talent in our regional elite,” says Hilary Poole, Chief Executive Officer, Hockey New Zealand.

“She has been to two Olympic Games as an Assistant Coach and many other top level hockey events which means she not only has an in-depth understanding of what is needed to be successful on the world stage, but also understands what underpinning programmes are needed to deliver a consistent programme to allow our athletes to shine on the world stage.”

Cumpston has a great love of hockey, having played it from an early age. She has always been involved in the sport, having played and coached it at all levels. 

In 2001 she was appointed Head Coach for women’s hockey at the Victorian Institute of Sport. In this role she was responsible for managing the High Performance Programme which incorporated all aspects of sports science, nutrition, sports medicine and athlete management.

During this period she was also Assistant Coach of the Australian Women’s team for Hockey Australia on a campaign by campaign basis.  She held both these roles until May 2009, after which time she helped Hockey Australia on a voluntary basis.

“I am looking forward to joining the team at Hockey New Zealand, and being responsible for building on the good work already in place. I am keen to work with the current elite squads and those of the future to ensure ongoing success,” says Cumpston.

She joined Hockey New Zealand on 8 November 2010.

Source: Hockey New Zealand Media Release