FOUNDER, COACH & FACILITATOR

Pele is an expert in Strength and Conditioning Coaching with over 16 years of experience in high-performance sport, wellbeing, health, and functional fitness. As a former Functional Fitness Gym Owner, Pele has guided athletes who have advanced to elite levels in the NRL, Super Rugby and Netball. He is dedicated to creating holistic programs that integrate high-performance methodologies, mental fitness, and sport-specific training. His approach focuses on unlocking potential, and developing athletes technically, physically and mentally for long-term success.

COACH & MENTOR

Maraki brings extensive experience in high-performance environments, having represented New Zealand in Rugby League, Touch Rugby, and Basketball. Now focusing on helping young people navigate the sporting world, he shares his lived experience to inspire and mentor the next generation both on and off the field. Passionate about content creation, Maraki plans to share his insights through the Performnz IQ platform and its social channels. Stay connected as he shares his journey, offering inspiration and guidance through his love of sport and creative passions.

COACH & FACILITATOR

Cody Price is the Founder and Head Coach of Catch Pass Academy, bringing extensive experience from provincial and high-performance rugby environments, including NPC, Premier Club, and leading 1st XV programmes. His background in these elite settings provides a strong foundation for the standards and professionalism he brings to youth development. As Performnz IQ’s Rugby IQ Lead, Cody supports coaches and athletes to build a deep understanding of rugby-specific skills, decision-making, and game knowledge, helping raise capability and confidence across the pathway.

COACH & MENTOR

Fletcher Carpenter is a high-performance athlete and coach who has represented New Zealand in both Rugby Sevens and Touch. His journey reflects years of dedication, discipline, and hard work to reach the elite level. As a Speed & Agility specialist and Athlete Mentor, Fletcher is passionate about supporting young athletes to build their identity, confidence, and mental wellbeing. Drawing from his own experiences navigating the highs and challenges of the pathway, he is committed to helping the next generation develop the habits, mindset, and belief needed to pursue their goals.

MENTOR

Taufa Bason is an emerging leader in New Zealand rugby, having represented the New Zealand Girls Secondary Schools and NZ Secondary Schools Sevens teams. She was a standout performer in the Auckland Blues Women’s championship-winning season and has recently earned selection into the 2026 Black Ferns Squad. As a mentor, Taufa is passionate about inspiring and guiding young athletes, using her journey and leadership to help others believe in their potential and pursue excellence on and off the field.

MENTOR

Vernon Bason is a proven leader with a wealth of experience in New Zealand’s rugby pathways. Having captained the NZ Secondary Schools and NZ U20 teams, Vernon’s leadership extends both on and off the field. His journey includes playing for the Hurricanes and currently representing the Manawatu Turbos. As a mentor, Vernon is committed to serving others, using his actions and leadership to guide and inspire the next generation of athletes. His focus on mentorship is rooted in selfless service, always leading by example.

MENTOR

Sam brings a strong commitment to both his academic and athletic pursuits. Having represented the NZ U20's, Hurricanes U20's, and currently playing for the Manawatu Turbos Rugby Team, Sam understands the importance of discipline and balance. With a focus on supporting young athletes, he helps them build self-belief, confidence, and the right habits and routines that will positively shape their lives. As a mentor, Sam is dedicated to providing the guidance and support needed to empower the next generation of athletes to succeed on and off the field.