We believe that all rangAtahi deserve a level playing field.
MY WHY
I‘ve experienced first-hand the incredible influence of sports in conquering life’s challenges. As the eldest of a lively bunch of five siblings from the vibrant region of Waikato, finances were often tight, but my Mum, the maestro of resilience, knew the power and perks of sports. Sports has a magical knack of shaping and moulding a skill set that's not only lifelong but awesome alongside mates.
The cost of living is more expensive than ever. As a teacher, dean and coach it hurts me to see students every year pull out of sport when it comes to paying fees. Individuals are often too embarrassed to ask for help and their families can’t afford it.
This needs to change.
Every Kiwi kid should have the chance to jump into this exhilarating arena of health, growth and triumph. Every Kiwi kid deserves a level playing field and the ability to participate in sport regardless of their background.
Zane Seddon Founder and Director
“Level Playing Field will be an incredible force for change in the lives of young athletes. What impressed me was their commitment to providing equal opportunities for rangatahi through the power of sport.”
Sean
The Double Glazing Company
Meet the dream team
At Level Playing Field, we're united not only by the love of the game but by a common mission: to use sports as a platform for social change, to create opportunities, and to bring communities together.
Ben Wooding
Board Chair
"Joining Level Playing Field is personal to me. I grew up in a family that put sport first, and my parents sacrificed so I could play.
Sport taught me teamwork, discipline, resilience and leadership—skills that shaped me and my career. I believe it’s one of life’s best teachers, especially for young people without clear paths to higher education.
Through Level Playing Field, I want to open doors, build confidence and change lives by widening access to sport. This is my way of giving back so every young person, whatever their background, can feel they belong and see what’s possible."
Ket Patel
Commercial & Customer Insights
"For me, sport is more than just physical activity. Growing up playing football and cricket taught me valuable life lessons — from handling pressure and setbacks (often due to a lack of talent!) to developing leadership, communication, and discipline.
I've also seen the positive impact sport can have on mental wellbeing, which is key to succeeding both on and off the pitch.
I joined Level Playing Field to give something back to the community, and I hope to play a small part in making sport more inclusive and accessible for tamariki across Aotearoa"
"The mana placed in a programme that supports the next generation, means so much to me. For me, playing sport as a young lad meant that our whānau had to borrow money to pay for fees. As a young rangatahi in Hamilton/Cambridge at the time, one of the most embarrassing things was not having a good set of boots or socks for rugby vs my team mates.
Joining Zane and the LPF Whānau allows me to be part of something bigger than me. A sense of giving back. United we all can make a big difference"
Sam-Georgia Seddon
Creative Director
"Level Playing Field is my husband's passion project. Leveraging on my expertise in marketing, design, and art direction, I am inspired to contribute by creating compelling visuals and leading promotions for the charity.
I deeply understand the significance of sports in fostering overall health and mental well-being, particularly among children. It fills me with excitement to witness the transformation as we connect with young individuals who have yet to experience the benefits of sports"
Alex Hayde
Business Development | Investor Relations
“When I think about the opportunities I had to enter sport, I would like all Kiwi kids to have that same pathway to sporting success.
My family have always had an association to hockey, and affording the equipment may be out of reach for some. If I can help in a small way I will!”
Sapphira Connor
Customer Experience Coordinator
"I joined Level Playing Field because I’ve experienced and seen firsthand how sport can build confidence, friendships, and strong mental and physical well-being.
As a māma, I understand the financial challenges of raising tamariki and keeping them involved in sport, I also know how powerful it can be in supporting tamariki and rangatahi to thrive.
Every person deserves the opportunity to play, grow, and experience the lifelong benefits of sport and I’m passionate about making that possible for young people in Aotearoa"
Amy Shea
Customer Experience Coordinator
"Sport has been a constant and transformative part of my life, shaping who I am and the values I hold. Through sport, I’ve built lifelong friendships and experienced firsthand how it can strengthen mental health and well-being. I’ve been fortunate to always have the opportunity to participate in sports, and I believe that all rangatahi in New Zealand should have equal access to these opportunities.
Without sport and the friends I’ve made along the way, my life wouldn’t be as fulfilling. I joined Level Playing Field because I want to make a difference, helping young athletes reach their goals—whether that’s simply getting to practice each week or achieving something bigger. Sport has made me stronger, healthier inside and out, and kinder to others and myself. I am passionate about ensuring that every young person can experience these same benefits"
Ready to get started?
Help us provide rangatahi with the opportunity to participate in sports and physical activities, regardless of their background or circumstances. Let's transform lives through sports.
