There is something about the Commonwealth Games that I find special. They seem more personal.
There is no doubt that these athletes are achieving at a world standard regardless of how many nations are present at the Games. They seem to be more accessible for spectators. I am loving the inclusion of the "para" events occurring concurrently, how special is that for those athletes to be part of the bigger team.
I have been enjoying watching all our athletes and can but admire their skill and work rates. We don't often get to see teams of NZ gymnasts competing which has been timely given that we are engaged in a gymnastics unit at School.
The Games news commentators, and indeed the athletes are paying homage to the support they receive from their families, friends, coaches, funding bodies, training partners and their communities. Never has it seemed like we are a part of their success.
I could't believe that local Anton Cooper (Woodend) won gold in the mountain biking corss-country this morning, unbelievable determination and self-belief.
This happens on all levels - parent support at our School in critical to all our sports programmes and sporting opportunities for our students.
Thank you to all the parents who manage, transport, coach, feed and encourage the children to be involved.
Last Friday we held an impromptu sports afternoon in lieu of the Interchange cancellation. What a thrill to see parents help out, the students being appreciative and flexible with a hastily arranged draw. It was everything that is good about NZ childrens' sport. They played hard, celebrated goals, laughed at missed passes and tackles, bantered amongst themselves, accepted disappointing decisions, reflected, and thanked their opposition and the adults. In short, they were happy!
This term we play 4 weeks of sports interchange, compete in the Rakahuri Tournament, practise our invasion games skills, develop fundamental movement skills in gymnastics and trampolining at School and at the Rangiora Gymnastics and ICE Clubs. (and later Athletics)
Basketball begins this term and there are opportunities to learn this fantastic game - yrs 3/4 - mini ball, yrs 5 - 8 NCJBA Friday night competition for Schools.
Watch out for sporting opportunities in the community, Fernside Tennis Club has its AGM on Monday 11 August.
