International Sport
Last weekend a group of 42 students and six staff travelled to London for the first major series of competitive games for ISA since Covid arrived in the UK in early 2020. This was a significant opportunity and the decision to travel had not been taken lightly.
Though no schools from continental Europe attended, there were several international schools from the South East of England and the tournaments typically had representation from between 8 and 10 institutions. The tournament's structure saw the teams split into two divisions after an early round of fixtures and I am pleased to report that the HS Boys went on to win their division. The boys footballers lost their semi-final for the division two title game by a goal to nil but showed they could compete with even the largest of schools there. The girls volleyballers finished with winning results on the second day of competition and the girls footballers gave an excellent account of themselves in a physically demanding schedule.
The benefits of the trip though extend beyond what was delivered on the pitches and courts. It was great to see the boys and girls bonding with teammates and also showing good sportsmanship through positive interactions with students from other schools. The group got to spend time away from the North East of Scotland, squeezing in a viewing of the Lion King, and rekindling friendships whilst building new ones.
Many will have wondered about the relevance and value of such events having done without them for over a year and a half. Like the MS Activities Week, this trip to London will be something that stays long in the memories of the students. Opportunities like these are essential in our efforts to develop the 'whole child'.
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