2024 Sports Academy
We started the year off by establishing what makes an athlete, and how we individually compare to the standards needed for success. Goals were set and steps were outlined on how to achieve these. We began our Strength and Conditioning sessions with Mr Ridgeway from Ōtūmoetai College, with the goal of gaining power. Lastly, students were given the challenge to coach the rest of the group in their chosen summer sport, specifically focusing on the skills of these sports.
Term 2 saw a focus on nutrition and the importance of fueling our bodies effectively. Working in groups, students designed the ultimate sports meal, using ingredients from the most nutrient dense foods. Coaches from the BOP Steamers came in and took a fitness/skill session specific to rugby, identifying some of the students as future Steamers. We then had a pool session, showing the non-swimmers amongst the group different ways to keep fit and strong. Next we had a visit from a New Zealand ultimate frisbee representative, who took the students through skills and drills associated with the sport. We finished up the term with another three sessions of Strength and Conditioning with Mr Ridgeway.
Term 3 was particularly busy, and we spent a lot of our fitness sessions gearing up towards AIMS. Our theory sessions explored Body Physiology; specifically looking at the location, function and common issues of muscles and bones, related to specific movements in sport. We also spent two sessions learning how to referee in a competent and confident manner. These sessions accumulated with all students umpiring at the East Cluster Primary Winter Sports tournament. Our big trip for the year was to the Cambridge Velodrome. Here we were coached on how to ride on the track; we heard from an Olympic silver medalist, and we were able to explore the complex including the gymnasium, kitchen, chill out zone, and the mechanics room.
We finished up the year with more Strength and Conditioning sessions from Mr Ridgeway, and gaining more experience regarding how to coach athletes.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with these athletes, and would like to thank them for their efforts, and for always giving the sessions 110%. I look forward to following their sporting careers, and watching them succeed in their chosen pathways.
Ms Aldridge
