The 2025 New Zealand Wrestling National Training Camp brought together more than 100 athletes from across the country for four days of intensive training, camaraderie, and development. Held from August 1–4 at the Katikati College gym, the camp was supported by an Olympic Solidarity Grant through the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC).

Participants and coaches were housed at the Aongatete Outdoor Education Centre, where they were treated to hearty meals prepared by NZ Wrestling (NZW) Secretary Simone Reynolds with the help of dedicated parents. Despite a 20-minute commute between the training venue and accommodation, feedback was overwhelmingly positive about the lodge’s suitability for hosting a group of this size.

Under the guidance of National Coach Mohsen Lack, the wrestlers completed six two-hour sessions across the three main days of training. Mohsen was joined on the mats by an esteemed coaching lineup including NZW Olympians Graeme Hawkins and Martin Liddle, as well as Commonwealth Games representative Steve Hill. The coaching team worked collaboratively, bringing their individual strengths together —a dynamic that set a strong tone for the camp.

Also contributing were Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Suraj Singh, Commonwealth Games representative Cole Hawkins, and standout U20 wrestler Isaac Dobbs. Although Suraj and Isaac are currently managing injuries, their presence and support on the mats were appreciated by the younger wrestlers. Blair Bromwich played a key dual role, both training and assisting with setup and cleanup duties.

The camp featured a valuable education seminar on “Drugs in Sport” presented by the New Zealand Sport Integrity Commission. It proved an important learning opportunity, particularly for younger athletes and coaches.

Off the mat, NZW's Director of Technical Ross Tanner and Officials Chair Merinda Latham—an experienced UWW Level 3 referee—delivered an NZ Level 1 referee course. With support from fellow UWW Level 3 referee Alan Latham, the course drew 12 referee participants along with several coaches, and was well received by all.

The final day of the camp took training outdoors, with a group of 19 wrestlers heading into the bush and river near the lodge, rounding out an unforgettable experience.

In reflecting on the event, NZW President and Camp Leader Mark Grayling described the camp as a resounding success: “The athletes bonded, the coaches and officials collaborated, and the community came together in a way that bodes well for the future of wrestling in New Zealand.”

With plans already underway for the next national training camp, expectations are high—and many of this year’s participants are eager to return.

Article added: Friday 08 August 2025