Steve Martin has made a large contribution to sport in Otago over the past 15+ years, and is excited to do the same in Otago Cricket's blue & gold.

Previously, Martin held the position as head coach of Otago’s NPC team in the mid-2000’s and was also assistant coach of the Otago Highlanders.

More recently, Martin served for 12 years as Southern Zone General Manager for New Zealand Rugby League, was a former manager of the SBS Bank Otago Sparks, and the convener of selectors for the Volts for the past three years.

Get to know Steve Martin better by reading our Q&A below!

Q&A with Steve Martin

Q1: What excites you about the GM Performance Role?

What excites me most is the opportunity to work with, and to help to identify, grow and develop the talented coaches, players and support staff that we have in the Otago region. Being able to make a difference has always been my main motivation. This role will provide me with the opportunity to use my skills to support those tasked with delivering the performance programme so that it provides a platform and environment that enables those involved in the performance pathway to be the best that they can be. 

Q2: How will your experience in Rugby, League & Cricket help you in your new role?

Having spent a considerable amount of time at Otago Rugby involved in all facets of development and performance from grassroots to professional rugby, the experiences that I have gained through my time there will be valuable in this role. Understanding community sport and the linkages to high performance sport, which I have gained in my time in both rugby and rugby league, has given me an appreciation of how each relates to the other.

Undertaking professional coaching at Otago and Highlanders level has built my experience in a professional sports environment. Going through the successes and disappointments that come with professional sport has given me many lessons which I can apply to this new role.

Through my time in rugby league, the development of players, coaches and support staff has been something that has been a focus even though it is an amateur environment. The success that has been achieved by South Island teams has been evidence of the growth and development that has occurred.

And in cricket experience I have been fortunate to have had a long involvement with female teams at all ages, including the Otago Sparks, where managing those young women has provided me with an insight into the female game. Latterly, convening the Volts selection panel has allowed me to see how that environment works and to meet and get to know players and team management.

Q3: Any other comments you would like to make to the wider OCA network?

Otago has a proud history in the game. The list of high achievers from out of Otago is long and distinguished.  Its an honour to be able to play a part in sustaining and adding to that history. Blue and gold through and through, I’m keen to continue to have the wider Otago cricket community, including Southland, Central Otago and North Otago, feel proud of those that represent them and the way that they go about it.

*ENDS*

Article added: Tuesday 05 July 2022