In the July school holidays I travelled to Wollongong, Australia to represent New Zealand in Table Tennis.

I was in New Zealand U15 girls team with three other girls from around the country. Our larger group consisted of an U15 boys team as well as U18 girls and boys teams, along with four coaches and management team. I stayed in Australia for eight days and I spent six of these days playing from 8am until 9pm with a few breaks between games. The first four days we played teams events where we played all the states in Australia. Our team had many losses throughout the week but a few great wins and in the individual events I had a close win in mixed doubles and a few great games in the singles, but unfortunately no wins. There was a lot to learn from the Australian teams as their high standard of play took us by surprise. 

Playing better teams and watching some of the top players really motivated me as a player and I now want to focus even harder and train even longer hours to improve my game. Another positive aspect of my experience in Australia was the friendships and memories that I made. It was great seeing the Australians play as they were very experienced. Some of these players are coming over for our Nationals in October. I am fortunate that I have been asked to play with one of the top U18 boys in the mixed doubles at this event. I am looking forward to reconnecting with some of the friends I made in Wollongong. I would really like to take the opportunity to thank the OGHS Sports Council for your financial contribution to this amazing experience. I have learned so much and am keen to share my new skills with up and coming players, to help them achieve their dreams.