Applications are invited for a PhD scholarship available for New Zealand and international students to carry out research at Auckland University of Technology. The research will explore best practice that contributes to optimizing preparation and performance for 15-18 year old rugby players into a high performance pathway. The scholarship includes an annual stipend of NZ $25,000 for up to three years. Tuition fees are not included. Scholars must have background in sport as an athlete, coach or as part of a support team is desirable. The application deadline is 31st August 2014.
Study Subject(s): A two part research project is envisioned that will examine the NZRL High Performance Athlete Development (HPAD) structures, pathways and initiatives, some of which are due to be implemented through the 2015 and 2016 annual cycles. The second part of the research will investigate player development processes that can be used by the NZRL to establish best practices.
Course Level: Scholarship is available to carry out research.
Scholarship Provider: Auckland University of Technology
Scholarship can be taken at: New Zealand
User Review
( votes)Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate well-developed knowledge and a clear interest in dynamics and conditions for a player development pathway. Familiarity with a performance sport environment, and/or competitive rugby league is desirable. Applicants must meet the criteria below:
-A relevant Master’s degree in Sport and Exercise, Coaching, Athlete Development or a related discipline.
-Demonstrated ability to conduct research and an understanding of how to apply the findings in practical settings.
-A clear interest in and understanding of rugby league.
-Excellent oral and written communication skills.
-Excellent time management and organisational skills.
-Minimum English language requirement for international applicants – IELTS scores of 6.5 overall with 7 in writing and all other bands 6.0 or higher.
-Applicants must also have the personal attributes as follows:
-Enthusiasm, reliability, creativity and perseverance
-Ability to function effectively as a member of a team and independently where necessary.
-Willingness to travel and to be flexible.
-Background in sport as an athlete, coach or as part of a support team is desirable.
Scholarship Open for International Students: New Zealand and international applicants can apply for PhD scholarship.
Scholarship Description: 
A unique and exciting opportunity has been created for an academically strong applicant, with a passion for long term player development, and a desire to carry out applied research in rugby league. The research will explore best practice that contributes to optimizing preparation and performance for 15-18 year old rugby players into a high performance pathway. A two part research project is envisioned that will examine the NZRL High Performance Athlete Development (HPAD) structures, pathways and initiatives, some of which are due to be implemented through the 2015 and 2016 annual cycles. The second part of the research will investigate player development processes that can be used by the NZRL to establish best practices.
Number of award(s): There is one scholarship available.
Duration of award(s): The scholarship is available for up to three years.
What does it cover? An annual stipend of NZ$25,000 is available. Tuition fees are not included.
Selection Criteria: The scholarship will not be awarded if the selection panel or the funding body is of the opinion that the applicants are not of sufficient merit and the position may then be re-advertised.
Notification: Not Known
How to Apply: Applicants must complete the AUT Scholarship application form and attach:
– A personal statement addressing point by point the conditions of appointment as outlined in the Eligibility criteria section below.
– A brief CV containing contact details (maximum 2 pages).
– If previous study was completed at a University other than AUT a copy of academic transcripts
Email your application to: scholarships-at-aut.ac.nz. Reference statements from two academic referees are also required and must be sent directly and confidentially to the address on the application form.
Scholarship Application Deadline: The application deadline is 31st August 2014
