The 2023 Koru Games lived up to all expectations with new friendship and connections made across the 468 teams and 79 schools that played over the three days of the September competition.

“The Games is underpinned by the ethos of fair play and enjoyment, and from the all the feedback we have received the Games was an amazing success for the Selwyn Sports Trust” commented General Manager Doug McSweeney

“It was really heart warming to hear stories of new friendships being made between different teams and schools.  It was also wonderful to see some young people participating in sports for the first time, which creates so many learning experiences and opportunity for those tamariki, but also for our sport leads” added McSweeney.

“With such a large-scale event across five hubs there are always going to be a few things that don’t quite go as planned, however our sport leads, staff and volunteers did an amazing job, and I would like to thank them all for all their mahi”

“I would also like to thank all the schools, teachers, parents and caregivers for their support over the three days.  There are a lot of logistics to manage to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable time, and without this support and commitment, the Games would not happen – so a massive thanks to you all”

The John F. Reid Memorial Award was introduced this year and it was presented to Ararira Springs Primary School for demonstrating the true spirit of the Games.

“I would like to congratulate Ararira Springs Primary for winning the John F. Reid Memorial Trophy, but also congratulate all teams for the atmosphere, positive energy and culture created across the three days.  We received many nominations for this award and could have picked any of the schools who competed, so well done to everyone”

“I would also like to congratulate all teams who won competitions and received medals.  This is a very cool achievement with strong competition across all grades and sports”

“My final thank you is to all our supporters and suppliers for their continued support of the Selwyn Sports Trust.  Particularly the Selwyn District Council, Ellesmere Aggregate & Excavation, NZCT, Mainland Foundation and the Rātā Foundation”

The dates for the 2024 Koru Games will be confirmed very soon, and the Selwyn Sports Trust is looking to grow the games in 2024 to build more opportunities from Schools from within Selwyn, across the South Island, and wider New Zealand, to enjoy all that the Koru Games has to offer our young tamariki.

Article added: Saturday 23 September 2023