NZ Service to Sport AwardDr Murray Thompson and Nikki Patterson by Janine Hills

April Sports Round Up

We had a strong team competing at the South Island Secondary Schools Athletics Champs in April.

Highlights include Jake Hibbert continuing to impress in Hammer Throw and breaking the South Island's U14 boys hammer record. And older sibling Zack Hibbert was 2nd in the U19 boys hammer. And Nico Alvarez-Virag was second in U16 1500m and 800m. 

Our senior A boys futsal team enjoyed being able to compete in the New Zealand Secondary School Futsal competition in Wellington, in April after it was cancelled because of Covid last year. They appreciated the competitive games, played well and also enjoyed the highlights of Wellington including visiting Parliament and watching the politicians debate. 

Our 3 girls futsal teams competed in the Otago schools Futsal tournament in March, with the Senior A girls team making it through to semi finals and all teams improving over their season. 

We've had a pleasing number of enthusiastic students playing Petanque this season. 

Our winter sports sign ups are going well - with good numbers in a range of codes including football, basketball, hockey, netball and badminton in particular.

A number of teachers are involved in the Teachers Games, aimed at teachers rediscovering the value and joy of sport, which is currently being held during the school holidays. 

 We held a special morning tea to celebrate Dr Murray Thompson's national service to sport award at the end of March.  We appreciated Nicki Patterson, the regional sports director making the presentation in one of her last acts in the role. We wish her all the best for her new role for School Sport New Zealand and have valued her wonderful support over the past eight and a half years.