Upcoming Events
Brett Naylor
Competitive swimmer and Olympic coach
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Brett Naylor is a prominent New Zealand former competitive swimmer, national coach, and founder of AquaGym in Christchurch.
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A 1976 Olympian (Montreal) and Commonwealth Games competitor (1974, 1978), he later became a distinguished coach, leading NZ teams to multiple Olympics and Commonwealth Games. He was recognized as a Master Coach in 2003.
Brett Naylor is one of New Zealand’s most respected high-performance swim coaches, with decades of experience guiding athletes to national, international and Olympic success. As a former competitive swimmer and long-serving leader within Swimming New Zealand, Brett has played a pivotal role in developing elite talent and shaping the direction of the sport in this country.
Brett has the experience to share stories from international competitions, including the intensity of Olympic campaigns, the discipline required in daily training, and the mental resilience athletes must develop to compete against the very best..
Beyond medals and podium finishes, Brett’s perspective as a coach brings a fascinating angle. He understands that success is built on long-term planning, team culture, and the trust between coach and athlete. He may speak about handling pressure, overcoming setbacks, and learning from disappointment—lessons that resonate far beyond the swimming pool.
Those attending can also expect reflections on leadership: how to inspire young athletes, how to maintain high standards, and how to create an environment where individuals can thrive. His journey offers practical insights into goal-setting, accountability and perseverance.
This promises to be an engaging and inspiring presentation, filled with stories of dedication, high performance, and the pursuit of excellence at the highest level of international sport.
Friday 10 April 2026
Show Gate Lounge - Riccarton Park
RSVP by 27 March 2026
Note: Ensure your guests are aware of the dress code "tie and jacket'
A $15.00 extra payment will apply for luncheon payments not received within 2 days of the date of each luncheon.
Our last Event
Mitchell Drummond
Mitch Drummond believes the secret to the Crusaders success is dress-up parties, and tomfoolery.
The 31-year old halfback would know – he’s played 150 games and won 8 titles with the Champion side.
He spoke to a crowd of 170+ on Friday and, amid multiple cheeky plugs for his pubs, the Famous Grouse and The Little Brown Jug, highlighted the Crusaders’ culture as the main reason for the club’s success. “And having good cattle obviously helps,” he said.
The focus on having fun and building the relationships between the players has been crucial to the side’s success and Drummond told the Club it was something the senior players instilled in the youngsters from day one.
He talked fondly of his brief All Blacks career with a tinge of ‘what might have been’ and the impact sharing the 9 duties might have had on his career.
“It’s hard, I don’t think it helped either mine or Bryn’s [fellow Crusader’s halfback Bryn Hall] career, but it was the best thing for the Crusaders so it was the right thing to do.”
Drummond opened up and spoke bravely about the impact negative social media criticism had on him and the steps he’s taken to help him.
The new Dad also revealed he’s back for a 13th season involved with the Crusaders in 2026, the side dreamed of playing for as a youngster.
He’ll be part of the side’s Wider Training Squad next year where his highly rated ability to bring the best out of those around him, will continue.
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