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Christchurch, NZ

Player Residency

  • Men & Women Players: Age 18+
  • Available March through July
  • Suggested Timeline: 2-4 Months
  • Available Upon Request: 1-2 Months
Overview

High Performance
Development

Players train alongside players throughout the world, receiving position-specific coaching from Crusaders' experts while immersing themselves in our championship culture.

Connect directly with coaches from within the Crusaders coaching and support staff.
Understand why the Crusaders have become one of the most successful sports teams.
Experience the unique & special environment that makes the Crusaders who we are.
Designed For Men & Women - Ages 18+
RESIDENCY Program

What You’ll Learn

The program includes structured training sessions, strength and conditioning, tactical analysis, and competitive club matches each Saturday afternoon.

At our Crusaders Player Residency, you will be coached the "Crusaders Way"

Advance - Catch - Action
Safe and effective tackle technique & tackle selection
Attack & Defensive Breakdown
Attack Shape - Executing your skill set under pressure
Defence Roles & Structures
Individual Position Specific
Game-Based Scenarios - Executing your role & responsibility
Game-Based Scenarios - Executing your role & responsibility
Gym & Conditioning Sessions
Club Training twice per week with a club game on the Saturday
Nutritional, Mental skills, Leadership & Culture, Personal Development & Rugby I.Q session are provided weekly
RESIDENCY

Summer 2026 Program

Available through March 23 - July 24

  • Airport pick-up & drop-off for a seamless experience
  • Homestay placement for a local living experience
  • Local rugby club connection to gain competitive match experience
  • Flights
  • Accommodation 
  • Recreational Activities
  • Food/Beverage

2026 Program Dates

4 & 6 Week Programs are available on request.
Excludes Flights, Accommodation & Food.

18 Week
March 23 – July 24 2026
$17,999 NZD
10 Week
March 23 – May 29 2026
$10,999 NZD
8 Week
June 1 - July 24 2026
$8,999 NZD
Schedule

Player Residency Schedule

  • Field Sessions
  • Gym Sessions & Trainings
  • Observation Sessions
The Program

Rugby Park, Christchurch, New Zealand

Train at the home of the Crusaders and experience the ultimate high-performance rugby environment.

Rugby field drone shot in Christchurch New ZealandRugby field looking down the field long ways drone shot in Christchurch New ZealandUltra wide drone shot of a rugby field in Christchurch New Zealand
Case Studies

Hear From Our Athletes

Chad Hagen

St. Bonaventure University

“My experience was transformative, teaching me a professional athlete's lifestyle while connecting me with global friends through unparalleled opportunities.”

Oli Jager

Munster & Ireland International

“I learnt more than I thought I could have imagined, from rugby to life through the training and lectures that were provided with some of the best coaches and players in NZ.”

Mahie Wilhelm

Stanford University

“Professional mentorship and training at CIA expanded my rugby horizons. Gratitude to the coaching staff and lifelong friends from Ōtautahi.”

Sydney Davis

Stanford University

“A transformative experience that elevated my understanding of rugby, professionalism, and leadership. I learned how to read the game, refine my skills, and develop the strength needed to compete at a high level.”

Henry Whittaker

Guernsey Rugby Club

“Both the on field skill and the off field culture make me understand what it takes to be the best club in the world. I am very impressed.”

Eamonn Lay

Harvard University

“The skills I learned here will help me in life, business and sport. Everything is connected and I really enjoyed my time here in Christchurch.”

Tinaye Ngorima

Harvard University

“I have been surrounded with some of the better players & coaching I have been apart of. The level of detail is broken down into simple parts that I haven’t seen before “