FOUNDER

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.

MENTOR & COACH

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.

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.

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 & COACH

Elise Niu is a highly skilled coach, mentor, and former elite athlete with over 15 years of experience in high-performance sport, strength and conditioning, and athlete development. A former New Zealand Touch representative and provincial netball player, she brings firsthand elite-level insight to her coaching. As a former gym owner, Elise specialised in strength, speed, and agility training, helping athletes maximize their performance. Now the Director of Netball at Whanganui Collegiate, she is dedicated to fostering a high-performance culture, emphasising accountability, teamwork, and holistic growth to prepare athletes for success in both sport and life.