The Team

Our little Open Free Choice Team is a great introduction to the sport of marching.  This is a great way for young girls to see what marching is.  We are very excited to introduce new members to the sport of Marching.

Your coach is Ngapi Coffin who has a real passion for the sport of marching and loves to see these young girls strutting their stuff out on the marching field.  We also have Karen Bedingfield on board who has been involved with Marching for over 40 years.  She is currently coach of our Madison Blues Senior team as well as being a Board Member for Marching New Zealand.  If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact Ngapi or Karen.

The Coaches

Introducing NGAPI

E tu ana au ki te taumata o Mauao e tu takotako ra. Ka titiro whakararo iho ki aku iwi o Ngai te Rangi me Ngati Ranginui i runga i te waka o Mataatua e rere ana i nga wai karekare o Tauranga moana. Ka u te waka ki uta ki te marae nukunuku atea o Hairini. Kia rongo i te reo pohiri o Ngai te Ahi e mihi nei, e karanga nei.

Ngapi's journey with the Madison Blues Whanau over the past nine years has been rich with experiences and growth, both for herself and her children. It's remarkable to see how marching has not only been a sport but also a platform for building confidence and skills in her children. 

Ngapi's proficiency in both Te Reo Māori and English is a wonderful asset, allowing her to connect with and guide members in multiple languages. Her passion for marching undoubtedly adds a special energy to the community, fostering a sense of camaraderie and dedication among its members.

Ngapi demonstrates her commitment to the continued success and flourishing of Madison Blues Marching, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and create lasting memories together.

Introducing POIHAERE

Poihaere, at just 14 years old, is already making her mark within the Madison Blues community. As one of Ngapi's four daughters, she brings a familial connection to the club. Poihaere initially joined Madison Blues as a marcher and has now transitioned into the role of coaching the younger upcoming marchers in the Open Free Choice team.

Despite her young age, Poihaere's passion for mentoring and nurturing the next generation of marchers is evident. She takes great joy in witnessing the growth and development of the younger members, affectionately referring to them as "our babies." For Poihaere, coaching is more than just about teaching marching techniques; it's about fostering a supportive environment where each individual can thrive and reach their full potential.

Her dedication to both the sport and the community exemplifies the spirit of Madison Blues, where every member, regardless of age, plays a valuable role in shaping the future of the club.

Trainings

Trainings will be once a week on Thursday's at 4.30pm these trainings will go for approx. 1 hour.

Trainings will be at the Kaitao Intermediate School Hall during winter.  Once Daylight savings start trainings will move outside.  

The team will supply all training gear except footwear.