Amy Wadman
Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach, Women’s Talent Development Centre, Auckland FC
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Sport and Exercise Science with a minor in Sport Management
Sport was at the heart of her childhood, says Amy Wadman who came to AUT to study a Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Sport and Exercise Science with a minor in Sport Management.
“I grew up with a real passion for movement and competition. I was always jumping into different sports, and eventually found my belonging playing hockey, while also dancing throughout high school. AUT became the natural choice after a family friend, who worked in high performance at Netball New Zealand, told my mum they primarily hired AUT sport and recreation graduates. I had also heard that AUT has a really hands-on approach to learning, lots of industry connections and opportunities to get practical experience rather than just sit in lecture theatres. This really aligned with the way I learn, so it seemed like a no-brainer.”
This certainly proved to be the right decision, and she had a number of highlights throughout her three years at AUT.
“I’d always heard that AUT had this real sense of community, but it wasn’t until I actually met my cohort that I understood what that meant. There was such a genuine sense of belonging, everyone wanted the best for each other, and people were always willing to go out of their way to help and share ideas.
“A huge unexpected highlight for me was getting to travel to Malaysia as the lead performance analyst for the U21 Men’s Future Black Sticks. After almost a full year interning with Hockey New Zealand for my workplace experience placement, I was incredibly fortunate to be supported by AUT staff to take on this international tour while still balancing my final assignments. It was a massive step up in responsibility and a real ‘pinch-me’ moment. Another big highlight was being invited to speak at AUT LIVE about performance analysis. It was such a full-circle moment getting to share my experiences, chatting with so many hopeful future AUT students, and realising how far I’d grown.”
Supported to thrive
There were a few staff members who made a particular impact on her during her studies.
“Professor Kirsten Spencer was my academic supervisor in my final year, and she constantly challenged me to think bigger, sharpen my ideas and be disciplined in my work. She didn’t let me take the easy route, and I really appreciated that. She pushed me to back myself, to communicate confidently, and to hold a high standard in everything I produced. Having someone believe in my potential like that made a huge difference.
“Associate Professor Chris Whatman was another huge supporter. I had him for a few courses, mainly biomechanics, which I struggled with heaps at the start. He was incredibly attentive and patient, and the way he explained things made such a difference. By the end of it, I’d gained so much confidence purely because of his teaching and support.”
Amy, who graduated from AUT at the end of 2024, has some great advice for other students.
“Say yes to every opportunity; even the ones that feel a little out of your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone; you learn, adapt and build confidence by challenging yourself. Every experience, no matter how small it seems at the time, is a chance to take a step closer to the industry. And you never know who might remember your work, your attitude, or the effort you put in – and give your name a shout in the right room.”
Empowering female athletes
Now working for Auckland FC’s Women’s Talent Development Centre, Amy enjoys being actively involved in the athletes’ development.
“After interning and gaining experience in the athletic development space at Auckland FC for a few months, I was offered the opportunity to step into their newly launched Women’s Talent Development Centre. In this role, I’ve introduced young female footballers to the world of strength and conditioning. I’m delivering gym sessions that emphasize movement mechanics, familiarise technical strength and prime athletes for their on-field training, helping them build a strong foundation for performance and long-term development.”
For her, the best part of her role is to help young women feel capable, empowered and confident in a sporting environment.
“I love knowing that the work we do sets these 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. As they get stronger, move better and grow more assured in their abilities, it reminds me why I chose this path.”
