ABOUT US
IMS Performance Football is a development programme built around the individual, made to take young players to the next level of their game. We're based in Christchurch at Medbury School, and we coach ambitious players of every age and ability, from five year olds having their first proper touch to teenagers chasing an academy place.
Most programmes coach the team. We coach the player. Technical skill, game understanding, mindset, character, and the thing that makes you different: your X-Factor. That's the work.
We started in 2025. In 2026 we're coaching more than 300 players, with 400+ families on our newsletter and partnerships with over 15 schools. Word travels when the coaching is good.
Building Christchurch's next generation.
IMS Performance Football was founded in 2025 by young Australian footballer, coach and mentor Ilan Mastrocola-Simon.
IMS Performance Football was created to solve a problem I experienced first hand.
When I moved to New Zealand, I was shocked with how little teams train and when they do, how much of that time is purely spent on tactics. There is a clear gap in individual player development, and that gap is often what separates player who progress from those who don’t.
During my time at MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps in 2023, one of the most important lessons I was told was:
“ You won’t go anywhere unless you bring out your X-factor. Find it, own it, and make it yours. “
This idea stayed with me. Every professional environment I’ve been in has reinforced the same truth, players who make it are not just tactically sound, they are individually dangerous, confident, resilient, and capable of performing under pressure.
IMS Performance Football exists to help players discover & develop that X-factor.
OUR STORY
2025 Chatham Cup Semi-Final | Auckland United V Nelson Suburbs
THE PATHWAY
We coach players at every stage. The IMS Academy (ages 5 to 12) is open to everyone: any club, any level, no trials, no selection. From there, players who want more can step into IMS Select, our invitation only high performance programme, with strength and conditioning, mental performance work, guest coaches, and national tournaments.
We also run holiday camps around the country between terms. Our New Plymouth camp drew more than 120 players across two days, the biggest we've run yet, with more on the way.
Where it leads is real. This December, our Select squad tours Japan on an official invitation from J-League club Gamba Osaka. Grassroots to academy to senior and professional football: we've built the steps, and we help players climb them.
OUR MISSION
To develop confident, resilient, and technically sound footballers who are prepared to progress into academy, senior, and professional environments, while enjoying the game and staying true to themselves.
COME TRAIN WITH US
Whether your child is picking up a ball for the first time or targeting a professional academy, there's a place for them at IMS. Come to a session, meet the coaches, and see the difference for yourself.
Get in touch: director@imsperformancefootball.com · @imsperformancefootball