SESSION Abstract:What can we learn from Rugby with Ormond Heather
Why do rugby players train the way they do? A key principle in sport science is specificity—the idea that training should prepare athletes for the demands of competition. From strength and speed training to conditioning and contact preparation, every aspect of a rugby programme is designed with performance in mind.
In this session, Ormond Heather explores how specificity is applied in rugby and what lessons can be learned from elite sport. Drawing on his experience in rugby performance and research, he will examine how coaches balance the demands of the game with the need to develop well-rounded athletes.
But if training should replicate competition, where do we draw the line? This session will explore the benefits and limitations of specificity and ask an important question: can there be such a thing as too much specificity
Date: Thursday 13th August
Time & format: The course will start at 10am, with a coffee/tea break followed by a lively facilitated discussion to answer all your curious questions. The course will finish at 12pm.
Location: We are delighted to be hosting at No. 5 Cafe and Larder, 248 State Highway 51, Mangateretere, Hastings, 4180.
About the experts
Ormond Heather
Ormond is passionate about bridging the gap between sports science research and real-world performance. As a lecturer and researcher, he focuses on biomechanics, strength & conditioning, and exercise programming to enhance athletic performance.
Research includes Force-Velocity Profiling in Rugby and MMA performance analysis, building on my master's research in FVP and rugby performance. He is also an aspiring PhD student exploring combat sports science.
Christina Tay - Learning Facilitator
Christina is a lifelong learner with a profound passion for exploring diverse cultures and disciplines. Her curiosity has inspired extensive global travel, from teaching English to Buddhist monks in Laos and volunteering at a Thai orphanage to visiting museums across Europe, the UK, and Asia. A highlight of her travels is the Bishop Museum in Hawai'i, which she visits frequently, including during the 2014 World Indigenous Peoples' Conference on Education.
Her academic journey began with law and politics at Waikato University, where she discovered dispute resolution. She subsequently earned a Master’s in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from Strathclyde University, UK. This period included an exchange at the East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai and research in Hong Kong on the ombudsman's role.
Currently a Learning Facilitator for Love Heart Social Learning, Christina also teaches the Restorative Practices microcredential at Victoria University. A fully accredited restorative justice facilitator and assessor, she recently delivered mediation training in Micronesia. Previously, she served as Director of Employee Assistance Resolution Services at Victoria University.
Outside of work, Christina enjoys connecting with loved ones and attending international events, such as the 2025 Restorative Practices conference in Singapore, to continually expand her expertise.
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