Capital Football is sad to report that Sam Blackburn, Football Development Officer for the Western & Kapiti area, will be leaving the organisation when we break for Christmas.

Sam has decided to puruse an exciting opportunity in the United States and Capital Football, whilst disappointed that he is leaving, wishes him all the very best with the move. Sam has been an absolute credit to Capital Football in his time in the role, developing a tremendous relationship with the clubs he worked with. Sam has also expertly led our Football in Schools portfolio over the past two years, forming a strong relationship with the Hutt City Council and Kiwisport Programme, and engaging with children throughout the region. Sam has also been a first class Coach Educator for Capital Football, always at the forefront of delivery of New Zealand Football community coaching courses.

In saying goodbye to Sam, we are delighted to welcome Sarah Gregorius as his replacement. Sarah has represented New Zealand at the highest level as a Football Fern and is currently very active in the game, both as a player and off the field as a spokesperson. Sarah is a representative for New Zealand Football on the FIFA Professional Footballers Association, travelling internationally to advocate for her fellow players. Sarah has also recently completed a successful winter season with Upper Hutt City FC and represented Capital Football in the recent National Women’s League campaign.

With a strong academic background, Capital Football Football Development Manager, Steeve Sharpe, is confident that Sarah is going to be a fine addition to the Capital Football team,

“We are obviously sorry to see Sam Blackburn leave us. He has been an outstanding role model for what football is, and should be, throughout the Capital region. We offer him only good wishes in following his dreams overseas.

"At the same time we are absolutely delighted to welcome a replacement as strong and credible as Sarah Gregorius. Sarah is known throughout the region and New Zealand for her footballing ability but what really attracted us were the qualities Sarah brings off the pitch.

"Sarah is smart, innovative, and will fit in seamlessly to our team at Capital Football and the ethos which we work to. We look forward to introducing Sarah to clubs throughout the Capital region.”

Sarah starts her new role at the beginning of February.

Photo: Sarah Gregorius in National Women's League Action, Michael Welsh