Representing New Zealand is something few people get the opportunity to do, and for Trident High School volleyball coach Maia Westrupp, being appointed head coach of the New Zealand under-20 men’s team is an honour and a challenge he is eager to embrace.

The appointment marks another milestone in a coaching journey that began more than 15 years ago and reflects his growing influence within volleyball at school, regional and national level.

“Any time you are lucky enough to represent your country, it’s always an honour and a privilege,” he said.

“Being named coach also comes with added responsibility – a responsibility to prepare this group as best they can, not only to compete internationally, but also to support the athletes and help create future pathways.”

While thrilled by the opportunity, he admits there are mixed emotions.

“It’s a combination of excitement and nervousness,” he said.

“There’s always that shadow where you question, ‘Are you actually good enough to coach internationally?’ But I’m excited because you get to find out if you are.

“We all compete for that reason – to find out where we sit against the best in our region, our country, and in this case, internationally.”

Having previously worked with New Zealand’s men’s and women’s programmes as an assistant coach, stepping into the head coaching role was the logical next step.

“I’d been involved with the New Zealand men’s and women’s programmes in the past as an assistant coach, and I wanted to take that next step and lead a national team.”

His new role will see him guiding the New Zealand under-20 squad as it prepares for the 2027 Asian Championships.

While qualification details are yet to be confirmed by the Asian Volleyball Federation, preparations are already under way.

His coaching journey began in 2009 while still a player under respected Eastern Bay coach Paul Barr.

He enjoyed a successful playing career at Trident, winning a national title in 2010 before helping his team finish runners-up in 2011 and 2012.

After stepping away from the sport for around a decade, he returned with a desire to give back to the Trident volleyball programme.

Now in its second year under his leadership, the programme is making significant strides.

“We’re really happy with how it’s tracking,” he said.

“Both our boys’ and girls’ programmes are challenging the top schools in New Zealand, which is really exciting.”

The growth hasn’t stopped there. Trident has also launched a beach volleyball programme, made possible through the support of Matua Mikaere and the school’s high-performance programme.

“It’s another exciting opportunity for our students,” he said.

While pleased with the progress of the national Under-20 programme, he believes there is still plenty of work ahead.

“The under-20 space is progressively getting better, but we’re still a long way from the final product.”

Although volleyball has been a major part of his life, he said his greatest motivation extends beyond the sport itself.

“I have many fond memories of volleyball thanks to my school experience. The memories, the laughs and the success definitely formed a passion for the sport,” he said.

“But I’d say my passion sits more with helping our students get as close to reaching their potential as they can. That’s a lot more worthwhile than just volleyball.”