School Sport New Zealand has proposed a new rule that would ban Year 14 students from competing in high school sports events.
These students, who return for a sixth year of secondary school, would no longer be allowed to play in official competitions if the rule is approved.
The idea comes after years of debate, with many school leaders saying allowing older students gives some teams an unfair advantage. The issue became especially heated earlier this year during the Maadi Cup rowing regatta, where a rule change was passed to stop Year 14s from taking part. Rugby teams, like those from Marlborough Boys’ College, also sparked discussions after fielding several Year 14 players.
Tim Grocott, chairperson of School Sport NZ, said the changes are about fairness and keeping school sports focused on learning, not just winning. “We want a level playing field,” he said, especially in top-level competitions.
While students may still return for Year 14 for education reasons, they won’t be allowed to compete in sports unless their school applies for a special exemption. These will only be granted under strict conditions.
The proposed rules also include stronger rules against “poaching” — when schools try to recruit athletes from other schools just to improve their sports teams. New transfer rules would require official paperwork signed by the student, caregivers, and the new school principal.
Schools across the country have until September 12 to share their thoughts on the new rules. School Sport NZ says the final decisions will be based on feedback from school communities.
