This page is a brief outline of who we are; however if you would like to know more about Sports Chaplaincy NZ, please contact us.

Vision and mission

History 

Governance board 

National Office staff

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Vision and mission

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History

SCNZ began in 2009 as ENGAGE. This was a Sports Chaplaincy programme for the 2011 Rugby World Cup. During the World Cup, ENGAGE provided chaplains for teams, officials, and families of athletes. As a result, we understood the need for pastoral care, mentoring and support in sport. Then, in 2013 we registered as a charity.

We now provide this service across New Zealand through a team of 5 Regional Leaders and 53 Sports Chaplains. We support around 1000 athletes, club staff, and families, in school sports teams, grassroots clubs, as well as in professional sport and at large scale events.

SCNZ has developed a high-quality training and accreditation process. As a result our chaplains are equipped and maintain high standards of pastoral care skills for use in sport.

Sports Chaplaincy began in 1828 when it was identified that sport could play an important part in character development. This service has been offered at major events since 1972, including at the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. There has also been a global growth of Sports Chaplaincy within schools, clubs, and elite level sport.

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Governance board

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National Office staff

Phil has been in ministry since 1980, with Youth With a Mission, The Church of England, and Morrinsville Baptist Church. During 20 years living in England he was Sports Chaplain for the St Helen’s and England rugby league teams and at the Manchester Commonwealth Games. In his younger days Phil played hockey. He has also completed the London marathon and climbed Mt Kilimanjaro. Phil and his wife Diane have four adult children as well as a growing number of grandchildren.

Read an interview with Phil Pawley.

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Rebecca edits our blog and e-newsletter, as well as looking after our website and social media. She also helps train Sports Chaplains. At other times, Rebecca supports her four children in their sport. Back in her youth, she played cricket and football, with great enthusiasm but little skill.

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Before joining us, Matt worked in HR. Since then he has overhauled our training, and has helped train many Sports Chaplains. Matt has been married to Rebecca since 1994. Together they have four children who love sport! Matt has played cricket, football, rugby as well as waterpolo.

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 If you still have questions about Sports Chaplaincy NZ, then please contact us.