Karin Burger - Level 5 and 6

What attracted you to NZIS for your course?

NZIS has programmes and career pathways, where I could combine my sporting experience with work. The campus has a great friendly atmosphere, and the tutors are really helpful.

How has your course at NZIS helped you?

I now have knowledge of all the training, nutrition, and psychology that is involved in being a high performing athlete. Understanding these aspects has meant I could build on my skills and improve my ability and performance. When my performance improves I feel great!

Working in the sports industry, and being an athlete is a lucky combination. But it’s possible and I’m keen to keep learning and being the best I can be.

Where are you working now? And what is your role?

I’m the Sports Coordinator and Administrator for Special Projects at the New Zealand Institute of Sport.

What does your work involve?

In my role I work with a lot of different people. Mostly, this involves stakeholder management, predominately with our partners. Also identifying and building relationships with the Sport Academy, marketing and operations. So a busy role, which I love!

What is the most exciting aspect of your job?

My job is in the sporting industry which is where my interests lie. However, being on the corporate and business side of the industry gives me a different insight and understanding of sporting administration. I have a new appreciation for what happens off the court.

In my day-to-day role I meet a lot of people who are passionate about sport and can make a difference to how sports are run. I feel I can give them an insight into the challenges of being an athlete as I’m now so connected to my sport.

Did your course at NZIS live up to your expectations?

It certainly did. All the tutors are from the industry, so they have a lot of knowledge and experience. It gives us as students a great insight, especially when we are learning the theoretical side of the business, before we undertake the practical.

The tutors are also really helpful with their sporting networks, and help with locating jobs for students where they can.

How did you feel when you were coming to NZIS?

NZIS is a family orientated organisation. The staff is very supportive and I thoroughly enjoyed the environment. My classes had students who were likeminded, and together we had a great hands-on experience.

What were the highlights of your course?

I really enjoyed the extra-curricular activities like Sports Exchange, Academies, and tours. These activities extended our class experience and put into practice our theory lessons. I found the practical sessions invaluable as by doing, I gained confidence.

If sport is your passion, do you feel you can combine your new skills with your sport?

Definitely, I now have the knowledge of the requirements to be a professional athlete. I’m putting into action a lot of what I’ve learnt and I’m seeing the benefits.

Have you won any awards or competitions?

• 2016 Beko Netball League layer of the year

• 2017 Beko Netball League Championship

What did you learn?

The value of teamwork, as a team you can achieve more. I’ve been lucky to play with some great teams, and getting that dynamic right is so important. It brings out the best in people, and then you achieve the results.

How did your NZIS training help you?

I have a better understanding of what is required of me and also the tools to be the best player I can be.

What is one life lesson you learnt during your study and work?

Achievements do not come for free - it requires hard work, effort, sacrifices and determination.