In 2002 Rochelle returned from being away for three years on her OE, and needed a job.
As it turned out, Comet were looking for a new assistant coach.
“I applied and spent the next few years working with Greg Meade as his assistant coach.”
Greg was the son of Beth Meade, who founded Comet in 1958.
Rochelle has filled most roles in the club during her lengthy career, from assistant coach to general manager and everything in between.
She has been at the coalface keeping Comet growing and evolving to where it is today.
“It’s been made a lot easier with the steady support of the Comet board, my fellow employees, my family and Greg (Meade).
“I think the thing I have loved most about my role was helping to grow great humans, not just in the pool but encouraging our swimmers in other areas as well,” Rochelle said.
“Not everyone is going to be an Olympic class swimmer, but through swimming we can open up many sporting pathways.
“Swimming takes dedication, determination and diligence.
“Swimmers have such a great work ethic and can apply that in other areas of their lives,” she said.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with our talented employees and helping them to reach their personal and professional goals.
“Stepping aside from the club has been quite a strange feeling for me.”
When Rochelle first started managing the Learn to Swim programme, she spent a bit of time travelling around New Zealand looking at other similar programmes.
“I realised that we had a lot of water that wasn’t utilised as effectively as it could be.
“By changing the layout of the pool we were able to double our numbers and thus were able to teach more people how to swim.”
In September last year Comet received the national Innovation award for their Learn to Swim programme, at the New Zealand Swim Coaches and Teachers Association annual awards.
They were also named runners-up for the New Zealand Swim School of the Year at that event.
Having a role within the sporting industry. Rochelle was encouraged to pursue her own sporting adventures, and netball has been a big part of her life.
“I’m still playing at the ripe old age of 46.
“I also love Pilates, walking with friends and gardening.”
Rochelle speaks warmly of her close-knit family, husband Nic and their three sons Jimmy (19), River (14) and Silva (7).
“They all love sports.
“My husband Nic and son Jimmy are keen footballers and play for Thistle.
“River is rowing mad and young Silva loves most sports and getting outside.”
Both Rochelle’s and Nic’s parents live in Gisborne.
“Having their support from both sides of our whānau, also with aunties and uncles close at hand, has made having children and a career much easier.”
What’s next then for Rochelle and her family?
“A worldwide trip is on the agenda.”
The family are planning travel to Australia, Japan, the UK, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, the Czech Republic and Thailand.
“We’ve been planning this worldwide adventure for two years.”
Nic has left Makauri School where he taught for 20 years.
“Once we get back, Nic and I will see what awaits us in the careers area.
“It has been an epic journey so far.
“I’ve loved every minute of working in Comet, for our people here in Tairāwhiti.
“I cannot wait to see how Comet will light up the sky next!”
