The Winter Field Day is more than just a date on the calendar for Whau schools; it’s a chance for tamariki to enjoy friendly competition, learn new skills, and develop a passion for the sports they play. It’s also a reminder of the power of community—how support from local high schools, clubs, and organisations can create an environment where young athletes thrive.

On a rainy Wednesday in September, the Whau Cluster schools came together for one of the most anticipated events of the year—the Winter Field Day. Despite the unpredictable weather, over 600 tamariki from 14 Whau Local Board schools filled fields and courts across West Auckland, ready to showcase their skills and sportsmanship. It was a day of fierce competition, new friendships, and growing connections.

The annual event featured four popular sports— Potarawhiti (Netball), Whutupōro Tihae (Rippa Rugby), Haupoi (Hockey), and Whanapoiriki (Football). Each sport brought its own excitement, with tamariki of all skill levels competing in Grade A and B, and Netball even featuring a Grade C division. The day was about more than winning; it was about community, teamwork, and fostering a love for sport.

Netball took place at Te Pai Netball Courts, where a dedicated group of umpires from Rutherford College ensured the games ran smoothly. The Whutupōro Tihae (Rippa Rugby) matches unfolded at Riversdale Reserve, supported by Auckland Rugby and Kelston Boys High School, who were on hand to help the young athletes refine their skills. Blockhouse Bay Intermediate hosted the Hockey competition, where the school also provided umpiring support, and Football saw nearly 300 tamariki filling the fields at Tahuarangi Park/Crum Park, with help from Bay Olympic and student umpires from Green Bay High School.

The participation numbers were impressive. Whutupōro Tihae (Rippa Rugby) brought together 115 tamariki across 16 teams, Whanapoiriki (Football) saw nearly 300 tamariki forming 33 teams, 160 tamariki took to the netball courts in 26 teams, and almost 100 tamariki competed in Hockey, playing in 14 teams. Despite the rain making its presence known throughout the day, the tamariki’s enthusiasm and resilience shone through.

Grade A teams battled it out for a specially made shield by EPIC Engraving in New Lynn. In the end, Te Kura o Pātiki (Rosebank School) celebrated victories in both Whutupōro Tihae (Rippa Rugby) and Potarawhiti (Netball). St Dominic’s Catholic School (Blockhouse Bay) took home the Grade A Toa for Haupoi (Hockey), while Blockhouse Bay Primary School emerged as the Grade A Toa for Whanapoiriki (Football).

Beyond the sports, the Winter Field Day was about building stronger relationships within the community. Auckland Rugby and Blockhouse Bay Intermediate offered invaluable support, and Whau Schools were thrilled to return to Blockhouse Bay Intermediate’s hockey fields. Local high schools—Kelston Boys, Green Bay High School, and Rutherford College—also played a crucial role, contributing umpires and volunteers who helped the day run smoothly.

The event reflected the growing connections between schools, sports organisations, and the wider community. These relationships are key to fostering the next generation of athletes and ensuring that every tamariki can discover and grow their love for sport.

For Whau Schools, this event isn’t just about the present. It’s about forging connections, growing a love for sport, and setting the stage for future success. The tamariki may have played in the rain, but their spirits were brighter than ever.

Article added: Tuesday 15 October 2024