Steve ‘Coach’ McKean wasn’t just a larger-than-life figure in Taranaki; he was a force. For decades, he poured his heart and soul into our region’s youth, shaping lives as a mentor, sports coordinator and basketball coach. His passing left a void, but it also ignited a flame – one that burns brightly thanks to the dedication of his family and the community he impacted.

A key part of the ‘Coach’ legacy is the Coach McKean Fund, established in 2021 by his wife, Rachel, and daughter, Naomi, with Taranaki Foundation. This fund annually supports initiatives like the Sport Taranaki Future Champions Programme, empowering promising young athletes to reach their full potential.

This past month (or so) has been testament to the enduring power of Coach’s ‘s legacy. It hasn’t just been about remembering a man; it has been about reaffirming the values he instilled – dedication, community, and believing in the potential of young athletes. And this year, Taranaki honoured his memory in a big way through three community sporting events.

A month of celebration and remembrance

The month of events kicked off with the annual Coach McKean Memorial Cup, organised by Basketball Taranaki. In Mid-February six men’s and four women’s teams from around the region, battled it out on the court.  With the Opunake women’s team and New Plymouth West men’s team claiming the trophy (see images below).  As always, the competition was fierce and the atmosphere electric – a fitting tribute to the man who served as the patron of Basketball Taranaki.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A few weekends later, the Ngāmotu Golf Club buzzed with activity for the annual Property Brokers New Plymouth charity golf tournament. There was a tremendous turn out, many stories were shared about ‘Coach,’ and a strong sense of community was felt on and off the green. Christian Cullen returned as special guest of the day. The highest bidder even had the chance to have him on their team – a smart move, right?!  The fundraising event raised an impressive $18,000, which was evenly split between the Coach McKean Fund and the Life Education Trust.


Phil Quinney and Christian Cullen at the Property Brokers New Plymouth Charity Golf Tournament prize giving.

And finally, the month concluded with the inaugural Coach McKean Charity Slam, organised by Basketball New Zealand. This wasn’t your typical exhibition match – local Taranaki talent (aka household names) shared the court with sporting legends Dillon Boucher and Conrad Smith, each captaining opposing teams. Held in Bell Block, the popular event not only entertained the crowd, it also honoured and celebrated Coach while raising the profile of the Coach McKean Fund

“It was just the best game and a fantastic event and was so much fun to watch with everyone laughing. Steve would have loved if. Particularly meeting up with old friends.”  –  Rachel McKean.

“It’s been incredible to see the community come together and rally behind these events over the past month – all in the name of legacy,” shared Josh Hickford, CE of the Taranaki Foundation. “The energy, support, and shared passion for sport have been amazing to be part of – and great fun too!”

The combined efforts of these three events raised a remarkable amount for the Coach McKean Fund. But the true success lies in the sense of community, the shared remembrance, and the tangible support for young athletes.

The spirit of Coach McKean’s lives on, through the annual support of programmes like the incredible Future Champions programme and supporting promising emerging athletes through the Coach McKean Small Grants Fund.

Through the dedication of his family and our Taranaki community, the influence of Coach will continue to inspire for years to come.


Rachel McKean and Josh Hickford at the Coach McKean Memorial Cup.

If you’re inspired to create a legacy of your own, to leave a lasting impact on your community, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Taranaki Foundation. Let’s work together.

Find out more about the Coach McKean Fund and what this fund supports.