New Zealand Football has officially opened registrations for the OFC/NZF Professional Diploma, the highest coaching qualification available in the FIFA coaching convention.

The aim of this course is to provide aspiring coaches who will have an impact on the New Zealand and Oceania Football system with the necessary training, support, and guidance to succeed in both Club and International coaching at the very highest level.

This is the second edition of the course, following its introduction in 2023 which was well received by graduates.

Set across four in‑person modules delivered nationwide between October 2026 and July 2027, the Professional Diploma blends practical learning, performance analysis, leadership development, and the latest global football insights.

NZF Men’s U16 & U17 Head Coach and Men’s Talent Pathway Manager, Martin Bullock says the course was hugely beneficial for him.

"Having gone through the course my style of coaching both on and off the pitch has altered to be as player focused as possible and give the players lots of opportunities to have input, be heard and feel valued.

Having a Pro Diploma available in OFC is huge for the region and NZ to provide our leading coaches with the opportunity to further their leadership skills and experience in line with all the other confederations around the world.

I’m sure all the candidates on the first course enjoyed the experience and content. We didn’t necessarily focus on football too much but on general leadership that would be transferable to any sport or any career.

HPSNZ educators have vast amounts of experience from many HP sporting environments and I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from such experts. "

The diploma is designed for coaches currently working at Professional, Elite Youth, or Top Amateur level. It’s mandatory that applicants hold an OFC/NZF A Licence (or equivalent) for at least two years (exceptional candidates slightly under this threshold may be considered at the discretion of the selection panel).

Whilst the priority if this programme is to develop coaches of the OFC region, NZF and OFC will consider applications from non-residents/citizens of the OFC region.

For more information click HERE and to begin your registration please click HERE. 

Applications close May 10, 2026. 

Article added: Tuesday 07 April 2026