Training Camps

We have two training camps in January 2025. Please see information about both below. 

WanaKamp 2025 – Training Camp for Young Footballers

Date: 20, 21 & 22 January, 2025
Location: Wānaka, New Zealand
Age Group: Players born 2010, 2011, and 2012
Cost: $350 (early bird before 14 December) | $400 (after 14 December)

WānaKamp is a unique 3-day football training experience designed for ambitious young players who are serious about reaching their full potential—both on and off the pitch.

After a successful inaugural camp in December 2023, which attracted some of New Zealand’s top football talent, including international professionals, national league players, and NCAA Division 1 athletes, we’re expanding our camp to offer a special opportunity for young, aspiring players. This camp will focus not only on developing football skills but also on building the mindset and well-being habits that elevate a player’s performance.

The camp will be delivered by our Director of Football, Ben Sippola and Technical Director Thomas van Hees, plus other guests and support staff. Read more about our team HERE

What’s Included in WanaKamp?

• Football Training: 2 on-field sessions per day focusing on technical skills, tactics, and match awareness.
• Football Theory: Classroom and practical sessions covering game principles, positional play, video analysis, and more.
• Holistic Wellbeing: We’ll explore the key off-field habits that make the difference for top athletes, including nutrition, recovery, sleep, breathwork, and goal setting. Sessions will involve both group learning and individual reflection.

Why Attend?

This camp is for serious young footballers who are ready to take their game to the next level. Whether you’re looking to improve your technical abilities, understand the tactical side of football better, or develop the personal discipline that makes the top players stand out, WānaKamp is designed to give you the tools to rise above the competition.

Coaching Expertise:

You’ll be coached by Ben Sippola, our highly experienced Director of Football, and Thomas van Hees, our Technical Director. Both Ben and Thomas bring a wealth of knowledge and experience in developing young football talent. With extensive backgrounds in coaching at high levels, they’re passionate about working with young players to help them achieve their full potential. Their hands-on approach and commitment to player development ensure each camper receives top-tier coaching, tailored to their individual needs.

Key Details:

• Who Can Attend: Players born in 2010, 2011, and 2012 with a passion for football and a desire to improve.
• Dates: 20, 21 & 22 January, 2025
• Times: 9:00am - 4:00pm daily
• Location: Wānaka, New Zealand
• Cost:
  • Early Bird Registration (before 14 December): $350
  • Standard Registration (after 14 December): $400
• Training Kit: Players will receive a training kit (shirt and shorts) for the duration of the camp, which must be returned on the final day. Players will need to bring their own black socks, shin pads, and boots.

How to Register:

To secure your place at WānaKamp 2025, please express your interest using THIS FORM

Wanaka AFC Development Training Camp 2025

Dates: 23 & 24 January, 2025
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Wānaka, New Zealand
Age Group: Players born in 2012, 2013, and 2014
Cost: $75 per day + GST

Get ready for the 2025 football season with the Wānaka AFC Development Training Camp—a two-day camp designed to help young players sharpen their skills, get back into the flow of football after the summer break, and prepare for the year ahead.

This camp is perfect for players looking to make the most of their pre-season training, get a head start for the upcoming season, and have fun while learning and improving. With a mix of technical training, tactical theory, and lots of engaging games, this camp will set you up to hit the ground running when the 2025 season begins.

What to Expect:

• Football Training: 2 on-field sessions per day to focus on technical skills, ball control, passing, and basic tactics.
• Football Theory: Classroom sessions tailored for younger players, covering the fundamentals of the game like principles of play, positioning, and match awareness.
• Fun and Engaging: This camp is all about creating an enjoyable learning environment where players can interact, compete, and grow their football knowledge through games and challenges.
• Small Component of Holistic Wellbeing: While the primary focus is on football development, we will briefly touch on simple well-being practices like recovery, nutrition, and mental focus—helping players prepare for a balanced season ahead.

Why Attend?

• Get Back Into Football: After a long summer break, it’s a great way for players to get back into training mode, shake off any rust, and build confidence ahead of the season.
• Work with Experienced Coaches: Players will be guided by Ben Sippola, our Director of Football, and Thomas van Hees, our Technical Director, alongside other experienced staff. They’ll provide tailored coaching to help players improve their skills and understanding of the game.
• Have Fun: In addition to focused training, players will participate in interactive games and fun activities designed to build teamwork, skills, and a love for the game.

Key Details:

• Who: Players born in 2012, 2013, and 2014
• Dates: 23-24 January, 2025
• Times: 9:00am - 3:00pm daily
• Location: Wānaka, New Zealand
• Cost: $75 per day + GST

How to Register:

To sign up for the Wānaka AFC Development Training Camp, simply complete the registration form below to reserve your spot!