Sophie Leveridge
Upper North Island Regional Sports Coordinator, Special Olympics New Zealand
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation in Health and Physical Education & Sport Leadership and Management
She enjoys providing people with opportunities to grow and learn more about themselves through sport, says Sophie Leveridge who now works for Special Olympics New Zealand.
“A significant portion of my work involves organising events and developing sport programmes that enrich the lives of people living with an intellectual disability. I oversee the management and development of Special Olympic clubs within the Upper North Island and our local special schools. This includes establishing new pathways for our club athletes, and growing our school community by providing children with the opportunity to develop a love and passion for sport from a young age.
“It’s fulfilling to know that my work enables me to make a positive difference in the lives of those living with an intellectual disability. I appreciate the endless opportunities to further develop disability sport, and I take great pride in participating in the growth of the 13 different sports we currently offer at Special Olympics.”
She takes great pride in the successful events she has orchestrated for her community and the strong professional relationships she has built.
“I’ve helped to create more pathways and opportunities to build a more inclusive sporting industry in Aotearoa for those living with an intellectual disability. Watching my community grow in confidence, build new connections, and cultivate a genuine passion for sport has been fulfilling and the highlight of my work.”
A passion for sport and wellbeing
Sophie – who is proud of being selected as one of 20 women nationwide for the Whanake o te Kōpara Women in Sport Leadership Programme, initiated by Women in Sport Aotearoa and Sport New Zealand – says her lifelong passion for sport, physical activity and wellbeing guided her choice to study at AUT.
“I thoroughly enjoyed sports science and physical education during my school years. While I was uncertain about my career path at the time, AUT's innovative approach to learning helped me discover my direction. The university fosters creative thinking through a blend of diverse courses and hands-on experiences, providing invaluable practical insights and experience into the sporting industry.
“The highlight of my academic journey was the opportunity to undertake various placements, each exposing me to a range of professional environments. These workplace experiences sparked my passion for the disability sport sector. A pivotal moment for me was during my placement at Harbour Volleyball, where I presented my idea for a volleyball event for individuals with disabilities. Initially, I was uncertain about my project and career aspirations, but this experience transformed my perspective, and sparked my passion for providing new environments for my community to feel empowered to grow as individuals and foster new friendships.”
Throughout her studies she had a number of proud achievements.
“I was honoured to receive the AUT award for the best co-operative education student presentation for my project focused on creating volleyball events for individuals with disabilities, partnering with the Auckland Down Syndrome Association. I also represented AUT sport and recreation at the sport management showcase during AUT LIVE, and was invited to work at Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ) as the lead analyst for the disability component of the National Sports Club Survey.”
Advice for other students
Embrace every opportunity that comes your way, Sophie advises other students.
“Each placement or volunteering opportunity has offered invaluable insights into different projects and aspects of the sporting industry, enabling me to explore various roles and perspectives.
“These experiences not only broadened my understanding but also enhanced my skills and confidence. They played a crucial role in shaping my leadership style and philosophy, ultimately contributing to the leader I’ve become today.”
