Orienteering Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Kieran Woods as our new Manager, Coaching Development. Kieran is based in Adelaide and brings extensive experience in coaching, leadership and programme development across both New Zealand and international orienteering, and we are excited to welcome him to the team.
Kieran holds a High Performance Coach Qualification (ONZ, 2023) and was awarded the Prime Minister’s Coaching Scholarship for his leadership in coach education. He has played a key role in developing Orienteering New Zealand’s coaching framework and accreditation system, and currently serves as President of the Auckland Orienteering Club, as well as contributing to national selection and high-performance committees.
His international coaching record is equally impressive. Kieran has coached and managed teams at major events including the World Orienteering Championships, World University Orienteering Championships, Junior World Orienteering Championships, and European Youth Orienteering Championships. He also has more than eight years’ experience leading school and club coaching programmes, supporting athlete development and mentoring new coaches.
Kieran is passionate about creating supportive, high-quality environments for coaches at all levels and expanding access to education and development opportunities. His appointment strengthens OA’s commitment to improving coaching pathways and enhancing the experience of orienteers nationwide.
Please join us in welcoming Kieran to Orienteering Australia. He can be contacted on coaching@orienteering.asn.au
The Manager, Coaching Development is responsible for:
- Maintenance, oversight and development of coach accreditation and re-accreditation programs, in collaboration with HP and participation staff.
- Maintenance, oversight and development of coaching specific programs within the Orienteering Learning Centre (OLC).
- Manage coach development opportunities and materials.
- In collaboration with participation staff, develop and maintain OA coaching programs, including but not limited to Learn to Orienteer, Kid-O and Orienteering in Primary and Secondary Schools.
- Support compliance with the National Integrity Framework for coaches.
The role aims to develop the number and quality of coaches and enhance the quality of coaching activities. This aligns with OA’s strategic plan to strive towards Great Opportunities giving all orienteers, regardless of their current level in the sport, the opportunity to improve their skills to maximise their participation in and enjoyment of orienteering.
