Celebrating the success of sport and exercise graduands

The Bachelor of Sport and Exercise (BSpEx) programme continues to support postgraduate progression. Exercise Prescription major student Aimie Erskine is currently completing her Masters of Health Science (Sport & Exercise), while graduand Stephanie Walker has been awarded a prestigious Massey Doctoral Scholarship. Masters of Health Science (Sport and Exercise) graduate Isabella Gates has also recently achieved accreditation as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist.

Senior Lecturer and master’s supervisor Dr Lynette Hodges, who serves as the Chair of Clinical Exercise Physiology New Zealand (CEPNZ) says it’s incredibly rewarding to see Massey graduates progressing into the profession and making a meaningful impact.

In the Sport Development area, several students have transitioned directly into employment through their practicum experiences. Jess Mitchell has taken up a role as Community Engagement Coordinator with Volleyball Manawatū, Rebekah Collie is working as an Active Recreation Advisor with Sport Manawatū and Ryan Noble oversees racing operations at both Awapuni and Trentham racecourses.

Physical Education graduates are making an impact in schools. Natalya Bissell (Central Normal), Abi Dore-Wright (Linton Camp School) and Moira Hunt (Freyberg High School) have all completed the Graduate Diploma of Learning and Teaching and are now successfully teaching.

A key strength of the BSpEx programme is its work-integrated learning practicum, which provides students with valuable industry experience, enabling them to graduate as confident, capable, work-ready graduates. By applying theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, students gain meaningful insights into professional practice and build strong industry networks that enhance their employability.

School of Sport, Exercise and Nutrition Professor Andy Martin, says celebrating students’ success at graduation is an important milestone in their journey.

“Practicum students make significant contributions to sport and exercise organisations, schools and clients they work with - creating a valuable point of difference that is highly regarded by employers. Over time, these experiences have helped build a strong legacy of graduates who are now contributing across the industry in New Zealand and overseas.”

The BSpEx is available internally on the Manawatū campus for 2027 intake.