Tim Urquhart is graduating this week with an A minus average, after going back to "school" at 43.
The Bachelor of Sport and Recreation graduate will join almost 2300 others graduates from the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic who are swapping their text books for a graduation gown and cap to receive their degrees and diplomas this week.
Mr Urquhart, a solo father-of-two from the Avenues, now 45 years old, said it was a big decision to go back to school but he had been in the building and horticulture industry and wanted a change.
"I wanted to get involved with work that I was actually passionate about and enjoy - sports."
Mr Urquhart said the three years of study were challenging but worth the time and effort.