Study sport, recreation and exercise science

The union was founded in 1955 and currently services a growing, diverse and youthful population in South Auckland. There are currently 7,897 registered players at all levels of the game in the province (2018 data).

Many of the greatest names in the game have started out with Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union and in 2019 MIT school of sports students were able to study at the Steelers home ground for a diploma-level qualification.

“New Zealand rugby expertise is in demand internationally. The partnership with Counties allowed us to provide a gateway to local players, coaches, volunteers and those who want a sports qualification based around rugby to access those opportunities without leaving the area to study” says MIT lecturer, Fran Serrano, who was also the union’s mental skills coach.

“I chose to study here because I feel more comfortable in this environment. You’re not just a number. Our lecturers know you, they know your name, and they know your lifestyle. It’s like a family here at MIT.

There is lots of variety and opportunities to apply our learning. We are learning in the books, we are learning with technology and we are learning hands-on.

I am also currently interning as a strength and conditioning assistant coach with the Auckland Dream basketball team and interning as a video analyst with Northern Stars. I’m learning heaps and it has been the best experience.”

Maryanne Moa
MIT student

“I want to become a police officer because I want to give back to my community. I've always wanted to go out there and serve my people.

My advice is just give it a go, you won't know what it's like unless you try. I didn't know what it was going to be like until I enrolled and I've come here and I've enjoyed it. I've learnt a lot and met a lot of new friends.”

Savah Gautusa
MIT student

“I love sports and I have wanted to do something related to sport since a young age.

I chose to study sport at MIT because everything was really easy to follow, everything was well organised, well structured, and the lecturers offered a huge amount of support. I got many types of support and was offered lots of advice and mental support. Everyone is patient and everything was adaptable to the person’s need.

My qualification has helped me improve specific skills that I needed to improve on.

I felt so independent, and I felt like I was able to be myself.

I loved it.”

Allan Phung
MIT graduate

“I choose to study sport because it’s always been a passion of mine. It’s been something I’ve done since I was young and it has continued to stick with me. Sports has always helped keep me busy. I’ve made lots of friends through sport and it’s allowed me to travel both in New Zealand and throughout the world.

Studying sport has also helped me with my part-time job as a health and fitness instructor. I’ve learnt how to teach people effectively whether that’s correcting techniques, setting up machines properly or avoiding injuries.”

Dan Maireroa
MIT student

“I want to set an example to my kids that studying and learning is important. It’s never too late to pursue a different career and do what makes you happy.

Crossing that stage to receive my first degree will be my highest achievement. In a million years, I didn't think I'd be graduating. This is more significant than any of my professional sporting milestones.

The skills I’ve learned here have put me at the front of the pack and I wouldn’t have picked them up anywhere else. It’s not just the technical knowledge but also learning the importance of connecting with people, and how crucial that is to get the best from them.”

John Cocker
MIT graduate

“I want to help my family and our help our community by educating them on healthy living and healthy lifestyles. I am excited about the future because now I have the knowledge and I can implement that in a way that’s going to help others.

People expect that they need to be going to the gym but it can be as simple as hanging the washing out or going for a walk. Get active whatever it takes and don’t take the shortcuts.”

Jane Cocker
MIT graduate

"It has been a real honour having the opportunity to work with the Steelers and experience various roles within their program. It is enjoyable being part of the Steelers game days and getting to see how the operational side of a professional sports organisation works. The fast-paced environment keeps me on my toes and allows me to learn in the field.

The course has given me many opportunities to engage with the community; building and strengthening relationships that will help me in the future. I also assist at various school rugby tournaments throughout the region, allowing me to enhance my coaching skills and giving me the chance to educate secondary school students as well.

The four-day schedule includes three days in-class, plus one day for work experience, and gives me the flexibility to work part-time which is a bonus.

I would highly recommend this course. It’s a hands-on course that’s designed to get you work-ready. There is a lot of flexibility so you can make the course work for you, regardless of your situation in life. The team at Counties Manukau Rugby and MIT are great to study with, you basically feel like a Counties Manukau Rugby staff member.

I will continue to utilise the knowledge and skills I have developed and apply them to my current role as Director of Rugby at Pukekohe High School. I also will look to continue with study and complete my bachelor's degree with MIT."

Shay Eva
MIT graduate