1 February 2017 at 9:00 am

International students take to the field

One of New Zealand’s largest sports festivals is now welcoming entries from schools around the world.

AIMS games2

The AIMS Games International Sporting Championship is a pathway to sporting achievement for New Zealand students 11 to 13 years old. The games are held annually in Tauranga in September and have become a huge success. In 2016, the AIMS Games hosted more than 9,000 competitors from 275 schools, competing across 21 sports from rugby to swimming to aerobics.

They are often one of the first times young athletes can test their skill at a national level.

Building on its international recognition, the AIMS Games has now teamed up with Education Tauranga to create a programme specifically for international students. The programme will see New Zealand schools hosting teams from across the globe, allowing international students to experience New Zealand school life while training for the AIMS Games.

Anne Young, Manager of Education Tauranga, said the development has a lot of potential to draw more students to New Zealand.

“Combining a classroom experience with the games is really exciting," said Anne.

"International students will meet New Zealand kids from throughout the country, and then be able to compete against their new friends at one of the biggest high-level youth sporting events in the Southern Hemisphere.”

Aims game 3 photos

The games also aim to foster a positive attitude to sport. They aim to create a supportive culture amongst participating schools where success is celebrated, participation is encouraged and new friendships are formed.

Tournament Director Vicki Semple is looking forward to hosting schools from different parts of the world.

“For New Zealand students to be able meet and appreciate different cultures in a sporting context gives the games another flavour. 

“I’m sure many lifelong international friendships will be made,” she said.

An introductory video about the AIMS Games can be found here.

For schools and agents wanting to get involved, please contact AIMS Games Tournament Director Vicki Semple at vickis@nzaimsgames.co.nz

A free promotional poster can be downloaded here.

 

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