Auckland FC partnership

AUT is proud to be the exclusive university partner of Auckland FC, New Zealand’s newest professional A-League club, which made history by winning the premiership in its inaugural season, making it the first ever Kiwi team to win the Premier’s Plate.

As a university that is globally known for excellence in sport and recreation, AUT offers world-class research, facilities and expertise that create valuable opportunities for students, staff and Auckland FC players alike. We’re proud to be the home of New Zealand's top sport and fitness facility, AUT Millennium, and SPRINZ, the country’s leading sports research institute. Our School of Sport, Exercise and Health is one of the largest in New Zealand, with over 1,000 students, including 100+ research students and internationally renowned researchers who work with athletes and organisations around the world.

Behind the scenes: AUT alumni now working with Auckland FC

Many AUT graduates now proudly work at Auckland FC – from helping the team perform at its best to working behind the scenes to put on a successful game.

View some of their stories below and check back later as more stories are being added.

Amy Wadman

Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach, Women’s Talent Development Centre, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Sport and Exercise Science

“I love knowing that the work we do sets young female athletes up to reach their full sporting potential. Being able to give them a foundation of strength, movement skills and resilience they can carry throughout their careers is an amazing responsibility, and one I genuinely enjoy. Getting to witness their progress first hand is hugely rewarding.”

Tseard Theo van der Mei

Assistant Sport Scientist, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation & Master of Sport, Exercise and Health

Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Te Aupouri, Dutch

“My role mainly involves analysing GPS data from the players’ performance. It’s a joy to work in a high-performing environment where I get to continually develop and grow alongside some great professional operators. Working in elite sport is fun because I get to work with amazing athletes and be a part of such great sporting moments.”

Amy Walker

Commercial Activations Coordinator, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management

“I’m working in the commercial partnerships team, looking after Auckland FC’s sponsors and organising their activations on match day and beyond. I love that the organisation is using the sport to create communities and connect Auckland. Of course, it’s also exciting getting to meet the players and see all the work that goes into creating a successful professional sports team.”

Jarrod Wallace

Assistant Analyst, Reserve Team & A-League Men’s Team, Auckland FC / Analyst, U23 Men’s National Team, Football Australia
Bachelor of Business & Bachelor of Sport and Recreation

“It had been a long-term goal of mine to be part of a professional sporting set-up. I really enjoy the analytical side of the job – working with data and footage to make sense of what’s happening on the field and help the team improve. There’s always something new to learn, and the potential for growth in this field is huge.”

Mitchell Callaghan

Assistant Kit and Team Manager, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Management

“I help organise our players' training and matchday kits to ensure they look and can perform to their best. I also assist with the day-to-day operations, ensuring training and matchdays run as smoothly as possible, including during travel. Having a strong connection with the players is essential in my role as they look to me and my boss for anything they need on and off the pitch, and it’s my job to ensure that their needs are met.”

Lauren Mitchell

Senior Commercial Partnership Manager, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Communication Studies in Public Relations with a minor in Advertising

“What I enjoy most about working at Auckland FC is being part of something that’s bigger than just sport. There’s a real sense of pride in building partnerships that not only support the club but also create meaningful impact for fans, businesses and the wider football community. I’m proud of playing a key role in delivering a record-breaking debut season for Auckland FC and building a strong foundation of loyal, engaged and passionate partners.”

In pictures: proudly celebrating our partnership with Auckland FC