Assault charge for former national sports coach - but he cannot be named

A former national sports coach will stand trial on an assault charge.

But his identity - and the sport he was involved in - will be kept secret for now due to suppression orders.

The man first appeared in the North Shore District Court on March 6 charged with assault.

It is understood the charge came after an incident in Stanmore Bay in early February.

The man will stand trial before a judge alone in April.

The Herald cannot publish any further details about the man's sporting accolades.