Steve ‘Coach’ McKean was at the heart of Taranaki sport for decades, encouraging and inspiring young people across the region as a mentor, secondary school sports co-ordinator and regional sports director, as well as a high-profile basketball coach.

The legendary coach passed away in May 2021 and in recognition of the huge impact he had across all sports in Taranaki, his wife and daughter, Rachel and Naomi McKean, partnered with the Taranaki Foundation to honour his memory and establish a sports endowment fund. The Fund encourages young Taranaki sportspeople to reach their potential through the Sport Taranaki Future Champions Programme, and supports promising young athletes in the broader community.

“Steve was an instrumental and avid supporter of budding Taranaki sportspeople. In his memory, we encourage participation in this weekend of activities which will contribute to the Coach McKean Legacy Fund.” says Taranaki Foundation, Chief Executive, Josh Hickford.

Basketball Taranaki is hosting the inaugural Coach McKean Memorial Cup.  The purpose of this tournament is to get together premier men and women from Taranaki to play in a basketball tournament and represent the area they call home.

Coach was the Patron for Basketball Taranaki. Basketball Taranaki General Manager, Kevin Fenwick says: “Coach loved basketball and he loved opening doors for our youth to be involved in sport. I can’t think of a more wonderful tribute to ensure his legacy of inspiring and encouraging our players to be their best may continue.”

The tournament will be held on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 March at the TSB Stadium: email admin@basketballtaranaki.co.nz to register your interest in playing.

Property Brokers New Plymouth is also hosting a charity golf tournament with special guest Christian Cullen. All proceeds to The Coach McKean Fund and the Life Education Trust.

Sales Consultant, Phil Quinney says Property Brokers New Plymouth have chosen to support raising money for the Fund because “Coach’s dedication to the youth of our community through sport, health and wellbeing are values shared by our company.”

The event will be held on Friday 3 March at Ngāmotu Golf Club, email newplymouth@pb.co.nz for details and to register a 4-person team.

  • Find out more about the Coach McKean Fund here 
  • Read the Taranaki Daily News article here