Brock Gunson - High-Performance Support Coordinator
Currently the High-Performance Support Coordinator at the University of Auckland, Brock Gunson graduated with a Bachelor of Sports, Health and Physical Education. His current role sees him advising and supporting students who are studying alongside their high-performance extracurricular activities.
“I am extremely passionate about sport, specifically at the elite level. If I am not watching sport, I am typically involved in some form of physical activity, with a main interest in football. I am also fortunate enough to have been the manager for the University of Auckland Football Team who qualified for the FISU Football World Cup in China in 2023.”
It was this passion for sport that drove Brock to pursue tertiary education in the field, with the University of Auckland’s prestigious reputation as the top University in New Zealand drawing him to Auckland.
I chose a mixed pathway in Sports Coaching and Leadership and Health Science. This stemmed from my interest in understanding positive coaching practice as well as an interest in mental health and well-being. In my latter years of studying, I was able to combine the two in assignments, placements and seminars.
“My highlight was my 3rd year placement with Harbour Sport under the tutelage of Volleyball NZ coach development officer Shaun Matthews. I was fortunate enough to present a seminar to over 100 coaches in the Auckland region on the topic of creating a positive learning environment for athletes.”
Since graduating, Brock has stepped into an incredibly stimulating role.
“I get to support some truly inspiring individuals at the university and have found a home within High Performance Sport. I have also received various opportunities to travel around the country with sports teams as well as a huge opportunity to travel overseas with a high-performance team in October of 2023.”
Brock notes that it’s the supportive and approachable environment created by the academic staff in the Bachelor of Sport, Health and Physical Education that makes it special.
“Being able to connect easily with your lecturers is a huge boost in an individual’s learning and something I get to facilitate in my current role. The best part is connecting with athletes from all over New Zealand and the world and hearing about their stories and journeys. Being a small part of that is incredible.”
Brock’s advice for anyone applying for the Bachelor of Sport, Health and Physical Education:
“Get stuck in and make the most of the opportunity of being amongst university life on City Campus!”