NZ Men’s and Women’s Coach Appointments

NZ Indoor Hockey confirms the appointment of Thornton McDade as Head Coach to the NZ Men’s Indoor Squad. Thornton is well known in Auckland hockey circles where he has coached at representative and club level. Thornton is a two-time Olympic representative for South Africa and has extensive Indoor experience.

Thornton is excited about the role stating, it is an honour to step into the role of Head Coach for New Zealand Men's Indoor Hockey Team at a time when the sport is gaining momentum.

Indoor hockey in Aotearoa is growing rapidly. There is more interest, more talent, more energy, than ever before. They have a wonderful opportunity to develop a uniquely Kiwi style of indoor hockey, grounded in teamwork.

Jolene Casey takes the lead with the Women’s Team where she has assisted over the past three years. Jolene has extensive coaching experience and has been part of Hockey New Zealand’s Trainer Program and coach development programs. She has already been part of an Oceania campaign and two world cup events with indoor.

Both appoints are through to the next World Cup.

Other Appointments:

NZ Indoor is close to confirming the Managers for both team through to the end of the Nkosi Cup Campaign that takes place this December in Cape Town. Coaches have been invited to work with age group players in early October with a view to appointing staff to lead junior teams to South Africa where they will compete in an age group-based tournament.

NZ Indoor continues to grow with national tournaments planned for January 2026.