In Week 8, 64 of our students made their way up to Tauranga to compete in one of Australasia’s largest junior sporting events - AIMS Games.
Never heard of it before? Here are a few facts to give you an idea of the scale of the annual Tauranga invasion:
Over 11,733 intermediate students competed in 2023 (that’s bigger than the Commonwealth Games);
374 schools took part (including visitors from overseas like Fiji);
25 different sporting events this year (more will be added in 2024);
Students can compete in a school team or as an individual.
This year, we had students competing in tennis, golf, cross country, swimming, boys and girls football, netball and mixed hockey. The majority of the group travelled up in a convoy of minivans and cars on Saturday to set up camp in a lodge on the outskirts of Tauranga. It provided a great base for our tamariki to connect and enjoy some downtime during the week.
AIMS Games is a unique experience and the week was full of highlights. From meeting different communities from across Aotearoa, to celebrating individual and team sporting achievements, watching young athletes challenge themselves to welcoming families who came to support their young person - it truly was a fantastic week. Read on to hear more from the students involved…
Memorable Moments
“Crossing the line, standing on the podium medal in hand.” Lily (Cross Country)
“Food stalls, watching other people play and catching up with my friends from other parts of New Zealand.” Sahana (Tennis)
“Our team chant, 'up the Rah's'” Lucy (Hockey)
“Singing, gossiping and bonding in the van rides.” Thea (Hockey)
AIMs Games in 1 Word
“Incredible” Lily (Cross Country)
“Marvellous” Sahana (Tennis)
“Remarkable” Sylvie (Swimming)
“Exciting” Jehvei (Golf)
“Lively” Juro (Boys Football)
“Memorable” Kris (Girls Football)