The annual Kaiapoi High School Sports Awards went ahead, despite Covid-19 impacting on the sporting year.

Our students still performed to a high degree of excellence, with five students being inducted to our Sports Hall of Fame. To be inducted, students have either to be selected to represent New Zealand, have a top three NZ ranking, have been placed at the NZ Championship in the top three or in the World's top 10, or have been selected to referee a semi-final or final at a national event, while attending Kaiapoi High School. Our inductees this year were McKenzie Bailey-McDowall, Pai Wynyard, Madison Messervy, Max le Compte, and Kalese Le Compte. The Jock McTaggart Shield for Contribution to Sport at Kaiapoi High School was awarded to Mr Peter McAllister. All students who received awards are to be congratulated for their success.

Our guest speaker was truly inspirational. Jezza Williams, a quadriplegic, spoke to a spellbound audience. His message focussed on making the most of your life by setting goals and working to achieve them. He spoke for approximately 20 minutes sharing his thoughts and journeys. His style was unusual in that he had written his speech as a type of poem which engaged the audience. Jezza did not dwell on his physical restraints, but expanded our horizons with his positive approach to life and adventure. A special thanks must go to our Hospitality staff and students who once again provided a light supper full of treats for the evening.