Kody Andrews

For many athletes, balancing elite sport with work can be one of the biggest challenges on the road to success.

For BCITO painting apprentice Kody Andrews, it's simply part of the journey.

Recently selected to represent New Zealand at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Kody is proving that it's possible to pursue sporting excellence while building a successful career in the trades.

Currently completing his painting apprenticeship through BCITO, Kody works alongside his father while dedicating countless hours each week to training and competing in judo at an elite level.

"Making sure I have a good balance between judo and work is really important," says Kody.

"Eat, sleep, work, train and compete – it can be difficult at times, so taking time to reset and recover is important."

Having the support of his family has played a significant role in helping him manage both commitments.

"I'm lucky to have my father as my boss, which allows some flexibility around work and my judo commitments."

While painting and judo may seem worlds apart, Kody says both require many of the same qualities.

"Painting requires technique, patience when learning new things, and attention to detail with tasks like sanding and cutting in. Judo is similar – it takes practice, patience, developing technique, and constantly working on your skills and fitness."

A typical day for Kody starts early.

He is in the gym by 5:30am before heading to work at 7:00am. After finishing work, he fits in recovery, training from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, followed by dinner, study and preparation before getting to bed and doing it all again the next day.

Like many athletes pursuing their sporting dreams, one of the biggest challenges is balancing the financial realities of everyday life with the demands of high-performance sport.

"Trying to earn money to fund my judo career, study and everyday life can be challenging. They all place different demands on you physically, mentally and financially."

Despite the workload, Kody sees immense value in developing a trade alongside his sporting career.

"At this point, the two run alongside each other, but it's important to have a plan for the future. Having a trade skill is valuable and important."

His experiences in judo have also helped shape his approach to work.

"It all runs on the same principles – skill, discipline and responsibility."

Now preparing to represent New Zealand on one of the biggest stages in international sport, Kody remains focused on the bigger picture.

"Remembering what the end goal is and having people around me who support and motivate me keeps me going."

His advice for other young athletes considering a trade while chasing sporting success is simple:

"Follow your dreams and always have a plan for the future. Gaining a skill through work and study while training and competing is hard work and takes commitment, but it's worth it. Having a trade helps support your sporting journey and gives you options for the future."

"Work hard. Dream big."

Kody's story is a perfect example of what BCITO Sport is all about – helping athletes develop valuable skills and careers while continuing to pursue their sporting ambitions.

Everyone at BCITO Sport wishes Kody all the best as he prepares to represent New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.