Adaptability key for HPSNZ physiologist at Glasgow 2026

Heading into the Games, Stephen expected a degree of complexity and uncertainty, and the experience highlighted the importance of being able to adjust quickly as operational needs evolved.

While significant planning had been undertaken before arrival, several on-site adjustments were required once operations began in Glasgow. One example was the main preparation and recovery area at the Village Hotel, where the layout was adapted to best support both recovery and medical services.

Stephen worked closely with fellow NZOC Core Support team member and HPSNZ Performance Nutritionist, Christel Dunshea-Mooij, and the wider team to assemble equipment, establish recovery pools, coordinate power and water supplies, and ensure athlete support spaces were ready before competition began. Much of what was achieved was the result of a highly collaborative team effort.

Once the Games were underway, Stephen’s role centred on supporting athletes across multiple accommodation sites.

Christel Dunshea-Mooij and Stephen Fenemor meet Finnie

With New Zealand athletes spread across three accommodation sites, logistics became an operational challenge. Alongside the main recovery hub at the Village Hotel, Stephen, Christel and the wider team established and stocked satellite support spaces at the Radisson Blu and Marriott hotels, ensuring athletes had ready access to recovery equipment, nutrition and support services wherever they were based.

Coordinating services, resources and support across multiple locations while maintaining a consistent athlete experience required considerable planning, communication and teamwork.

A further success was the close collaboration between the NZ Team performance and health teams. Sharing a central service point created a single point of contact where athletes and coaches could easily access recovery, medical, nutrition and support services, helping streamline care throughout the Games.

Among the highlights for Stephen was the opportunity to briefly step away from operations and watch New Zealand athletes compete. He particularly enjoyed experiencing 3×3 Basketball live for the first time and witnessing New Zealand weightlifter David Liti win gold.

However, one of the biggest highlights was working alongside a highly skilled and motivated support team, all focused on helping athletes perform at their best on the Commonwealth Games stage.

“It was a privilege to work in that sort of team,” said Stephen. “Everyone was highly motivated to support the athletes as best as possible. People brought a huge amount of expertise, worked collaboratively, and were always willing to go the extra mile to help create the best possible performance environment.”