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FOUNDERS

DAN CARTER

FOUNDER

Born and raised in Southbridge, New Zealand, Dan Carter founded the iSPORT Foundation in 2009 with a determination to pass on the dream by supporting kiwi youth to be the best they can be regardless of their circumstances. As a husband and father of four boys, Dan is deeply committed to fostering a happy, healthy, and free environment for young people.  Dan retired from the global stage in 2015 and continued his stellar career outside New Zealand. In 2016, he played a pivotal role in Racing 92’s French Top 14 title win, and in 2019, he was named the Japanese Top League’s most valuable player after leading Kobelco Steelers to their first title since 2004.  While Dan’s place among rugby’s elite was secured long ago, his virtuoso performance in the 2015 World Cup final solidified his status among the world’s greatest players. With a remarkable career boasting 1598 test points, three-time World Rugby Player of the Year, two-time Rugby World Cup winner, and numerous titles, Dan’s legacy transcends the rugby field, resonating through his impactful charity endeavours and commitment to child welfare.

 

RICHIE MCCAW

FOUNDER & TRUSTEE

Born in Oamaru in 1980, Richie is a devoted family man, husband, and father to three daughters.  In 2009, Richie founded iSPORT, showcasing his enduring commitment to inspire the youth across New Zealand.  Richie McCaw’s legacy resonates for his on-field brilliance and his unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future for the next generation.  Richie’s rugby journey commenced at Otago Boys’ High in 1994.  He is hailed as the unparalleled openside flanker in rugby history and left an indelible mark with the Crusaders in 2001.  He assumed the All Blacks captaincy at a youthful 23 in 2004.  His leadership prowess was further validated as he guided Canterbury to the 2004 national provincial title and secured consecutive super rugby titles with the Crusaders in 2005, 2006, and 2008.  In 2012, McCaw etched his name in rugby lore by achieving a historic milestone of 100 test victories.  The zenith of his legacy lies in his captaincy during New Zealand’s triumphant Rugby World Cup campaigns in 2011 and 2015.

TRUSTEES

SUE FOLEY

TRUSTEE

Sue Foley, esteemed as one of New Zealand’s most respected corporate affairs and reputation management executives, has left an indelible mark on her field. She commenced as Director of Corporate Affairs at Westpac New Zealand in March 2010, bringing her extensive experience from diverse roles in journalism, broadcasting, government, media, marketing, and corporate relations. As a key member of the Senior Executive Team, Sue played a pivotal role in steering the organisation’s reputation management, overseeing areas such as media, government relations, sustainability, community and sponsorship, and internal communication. Sue brought her passion for community service to the iSPORT Foundation Board in July 2014. Her commitment to community welfare was evident through her involvement with the Sir Peter Blake Trust and her position on the Board of Paralympics NZ. In 2022, Sue retired, leaving a legacy of excellence in corporate affairs and a profound impact on community engagement. Sue continues to support the important work of the iSPORT Foundation through her role as a Trustee.

DEAN HEGAN

TRUSTEE

Dean Hegan has been involved in sports management for 15 years. As Head of Athlete Sponsorship for Halo Sport, Dean has extensive experience in sourcing, negotiating and managing global sponsorship opportunities for professional athletes. This sees him managing multi-layered sponsorship portfolios for a number of New Zealand’s top sportspeople. He has been instrumental in securing some of the biggest sponsorship contracts New Zealand has seen for the athletes he works with. Dean also has 17 years of Company Management experience, having founded his own successful wool trading company in 1998 Dean joined the iSPORT Charitable Trust Board in 2015. He is very much looking forward to bringing his wide-ranging business skills and experience to assist the Foundation in making a difference to community groups around New Zealand.

MANAGEMENT

NESS ROGERS

NATIONAL MANAGER

Ness brings her expertise in employment relations consultancy and human resource management. She has dedicated her career to fostering the development of character, strengths, and values in today’s youth. Ness’ passion lies in empowering young people to overcome obstacles and achieve control of their journey through a combination of robust support systems, improved opportunities, and character education.  Having personally experienced the positive impact of sport, Ness leverages her strong background in athletics and football to inspire and guide the youth under the iSPORT Foundation’s umbrella.  Ness embodies the Foundation’s core mission to use sport as a catalyst for positive change. Her journey, marked by overcoming adversities through sport, is a testament to the transformative potential of sport, a philosophy she seamlessly integrates into her leadership at the iSPORT Foundation.

RHIANNON WALTERS

PROGRAMME LEAD – YOUTH FACILITATOR

Rhiannon brings a fresh, passionate perspective to her role at the iSPORT Foundation. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, she combines her understanding of human development with practical experience in high-performance sport and youth programme delivery. Previous experience has reinforced her belief in the power of inclusive support systems and the value of creating enriching environments for youth. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, Rhiannon finds enjoyment through snowboarding, hiking and climbing. Her experience learning new sports as an adult helps her relate to those at the beginning of their own sporting paths, understanding the emotional strength and consistency required to persevere. Her passion for helping others drives her daily, as she contributes to an environment where young people can thrive and where every smile and personal victory is a step toward a better future.

ELLA ROGERS

PART TIME YOUTH EDUCATOR

Holding a bachelor’s degree in Sport with a major in Leadership and Management, Ella further graduated from the University of Auckland as a Secondary School Teacher specialising in Physical Education and Health. In addition to her academic achievements, Ella’s passion for sport was notable in her sporting achievements through rowing and athletics. Her dedication to inspiring and supporting young individuals perfectly aligns with the Foundation’s vision. Since 2018, Ella has adeptly balanced part-time work with the Foundation alongside her academic pursuits, showcasing her unwavering commitment to nurturing every young person’s potential. Envisioning a future where all youth can aspire to and attain greatness in both academic and athletic pursuits. As a valued team member, she dedicates herself to fostering an environment where dreams can flourish, embodying the essence of the Foundation’s mission.

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