James Wasley of Ashburton is hitting new heights with football goalkeeping gloves he launched three years ago.
The past six months has seen the Beorgan brand worn by New Zealand goalkeepers now playing overseas in England at an elite level.
Originally from England himself, Wasley still plays competitively at the age of 39, turning out between the posts for Methven Football Club.
A lifelong interest in goalkeeping gloves was the reason to start the business, and Beorgan is now a top goalkeeping glove brand in New Zealand.
Wasley has reached out to New Zealand goalkeepers since he established the brand, starting out locally and gradually moving up to national league level.
He has formed good relationships, looking after his keepers and catering for their needs, demonstrating loyalty and receiving it in return through networking, selling more than 600 pairs last year.
He believes the reason Beorgan, derived from an old English word meaning to guard and protect, has got this far is by his focus remaining on New Zealand, and offering top quality in a competitive market.
“I really appreciate the support from all the New Zealand keepers,’’ Wasley said. “The loyalty they have shown has enabled the Beorgan brand to develop and take it to the next level.’’
Three goalkeepers who wear the gloves were spotted for their talents and now play in some of England’s top leagues. They are Scott Morris, Henry Gray and Anna Leat.
“Having keepers overseas in the biggest leagues is incredible for us,” Wasley said.
Morris got transferred to English championship side Stoke City after impressing in the southern league and national league set up in New Zealand.
Gray is currently on loan at English national league south side Chelmsford, after signing for championship team Ipswich Town.
Leat plays in the English women’s super league for Aston Villa, and the New Zealand women’s national team.
All three goalkeepers are in contention for representing at the Olympic games later this year.
Wasley said he felt proud to see his Beorgan brand worn by keepers playing at magnificent stadiums, in televised matches in front of big crowds. Expanding the brand had been a necessity to compete with bigger manufacturers. The long-term plan was to have online stores catering for demand worldwide.
