NXT Level Rugby | Elite Coaching from Pro Players

SUCCESS STORIES

We contacted Sam at Nxt Level Mentoring a few months ago to work with our 13 year old son Lucas, whose aim was to trial for Ross Shield. We entered into the 6 week mentoring programme to fine tune his skills as a flanker and work on tackling and passing. Sam worked with Lucas to develop his overall awareness of positional play. Throughout his training, we could really see improvements week by week in his skill set and understanding of the game. The positive way Sam engaged with Lucas allowed him to understand the advanced technical skills to give Lucas an advantage Sams mentorship really was the key to Lucas’ success on the field and ultimately earned him a spot on the Hastings West Ross Shield Team. We would highly recommend Sam and his team to other athletes wanting to get an edge on their game. Thanks Sam, Lucas and Mike King.

Corinne King

Parent of 13 year old flanker

Eddie Weatherstone has been getting mentored by Sam Smith and the NXT Level Mentoring team for the last2 years. They have helped him with his game knowledge of rugby on and off the field. Sam has been great with analyzing his play and ability. He has given great advice on the areas that need work. Help set goals for fitness and positional play. Sam has shared his knowledge of what it is going to take to follow the rugby pathway. Eddie has ticked off some the goals he set with Sam. Captaining his First XV, U18 player of the year for Wairarapa Bush, making the Hurricanes U18 squad for 2025, signing an academy contract with Wellington Lions rugby for 2026-27. Fantastic to have one on one instruction for Eddie as he progresses as a rugby player and person. Thanks to Sam and NXT level for your on going support and influence.

Stu Weatherstone

Father of U18 Rep

Carlo has been working with Sam from NXT Level for nearly 24 months, and during this time he’s made huge strides in his rugby development. Through Sam’s guidance, Carlo has learned about the pathway to professionalism, goal setting, weekly planning, how to get the most out of his training sessions, and how to effectively review his performances. Most notably, he’s seen significant growth in his game IQ and technical abilities. Since joining NXT Level, Carlo has ticked off many of the goals he set with Sam, including making the PNBHS 1st XV, being selected for the Manawatu U16 and Hurricanes U16 teams, selection for the Hurricanes U18 training camp, and most recently, signing a development contract with the Hawke’s Bay Magpies. These achievements wouldn’t have been possible without the support and expertise of Sam and the team at NXT Level.

Tavita Isaac

Parent of U16 player

WHAT TO EXPECT

Top level rugby coaching from your favourite superstar players.

Elite-Level Insight

Get coached by professional rugby players who know what it takes to perform at the highest level.

Game-Ready Skills

Practical drills to improve passing, tackling, footwork, breakdown technique, and more.

Position-Specific Training

Focused training tailored to your position — whether you're a prop, halfback, or fullback.

Physical Conditioning

Build strength, speed, and endurance with rugby-specific fitness programming.

Personalised Feedback

Get one-on-one coaching tips to fast-track your improvement.

Trusted, Verified Coaches

All coaches are vetted and experienced — so you’re in safe, supportive hands.

What all of these benefits and more?

Find a Coach

FAQS

Who are the coaches?

All our coaches are current or former professional rugby players from Hawke’s Bay and around New Zealand. Each brings real on-field experience to help players develop their skills, mindset, and performance.

What types of coaching sessions do you offer?

We offer 1-on-1 sessions, small group training, team or assistant coach sessions, and online (Zoom) coaching. Every session is tailored to your position, goals, and current level of play. View our session types here.

Who is Nxt Level Coaching for?

Our coaching is designed for players of all ages who want to reach their next level — from aspiring rep players and school athletes to senior club players and professionals.

How do I book a session?

All bookings are made through our online booking form on the website via your selected coaches bio page. Simply fill in your details, choose your preferred coach or session type, and we’ll get back to you to confirm the best time and location.

Where are sessions held?

Sessions are held throughout New Zealand, depending on each coach’s availability and base location.
Check your chosen coach’s bio for specific training areas and travel options.

What should I bring to training?

Bring your boots, water, and a positive attitude. For specialised sessions (like kicking or contact work), your coach will let you know if any additional gear is needed.

Can parents or guardians attend sessions?

Yes — parents are welcome to observe, especially for younger players. We encourage open communication with parents to support player growth and learning.

Do you offer ongoing coaching plans?

Yes. Many of our coaches can provide weekly or monthly training plans that include progress tracking, feedback, and personalised goal setting to help players develop over time.

What is your cancellation policy?

You can cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours before your session. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee to respect the coach’s preparation and field bookings.

How does Nxt Level ensure player safety and wellbeing?

Player safety is our top priority. All coaches follow Nxt Level’s Safeguarding Children Policy and Safer Recruitment Policy, ensuring every coach is vetted, trained, and committed to providing a safe and positive environment for all athletes.

WHY nXT
LEVEL RUGBY?

I started NXT Level Mentoring because I know exactly what it feels like to come from a small region, doubt your abilities, and wonder if you truly have what it takes to reach the top.

I’ve lived that journey, from a small New Zealand school to the professional rugby environment, often learning the hard way, without clear guidance or a roadmap to follow.

Now, having experienced firsthand what’s required to succeed, my mission is to make that pathway clearer for the next generation. NXT Level Mentoring connects aspiring young athletes with real professional rugby players who understand the challenges, pressures, and dreams that come with chasing this goal.

For parents, it offers trusted, tailored support to help your son or daughter grow on and off the field. For athletes, it provides the skills, mindset, and direction needed to bridge the gap between potential and performance.

I created this platform so no young player has to “wing it” alone, instead, they get the guidance, belief, and proven training to take their game to the next level.