Badminton blitz at Thames High School

More than 120 students from across the rohe had racquets in hand for the annual badminton competition held this month at Thames High.
Run over two days, the tournament featured 75 juniors and 52 seniors, playing both singles and doubles.
Thames High School head of sport Carolyn Green said that during the year, all schools in the area host different sporting events, with Thames High hosting the badminton competition for the past four years.
“We had a large number of entries from Thames High School as the physical education department had spent a large amount of time in Term 3 learning how to play badminton,” she said. “Hosting this event for all our schools to be able to get involved in is hugely important for everyone in the Valley.”
Thames High students volunteered to umpire during the two days, while Jeremy Rout from Thames Valley Badminton was also in attendance to lend a hand, which Carolyn said was a great way to build a connection between the schools, players, and the regional organisation.
“One of the key aims of our Thames High School sport department is to ensure sport is accessible to every Thames High student, focusing on participation, fun, and development for all – no matter what level they are able to participate in.
“You get to see some amazing talent on the court and outstanding sportsmanship with everyone keen to help referee games and make connections,” Carolyn said. “I am super proud of everyone’s achievements on the day.”
RESULTS: Senior Boys Singles – Taurian McConnochie (Katikati College); Senior Girls Singles – Emma Lowe (Matamata College); Junior Boys Singles – Taj Shiriwastow (Thames High School)
Junior Girls Singles – Shayne Diaz (Te Kauwhata College); Senior Boys Doubles- Zak Butterworth/Jordan Yuliana (Waihi College); Senior Girls Doubles – Emma Lowe/Charlotte Sailsbury (Matamata College); Junior Boys Doubles – Arf Bartolone/Dean Matenga (Te Kauwhata College); Junior Girls Doubles – Sharmain Diaz/Shayne Diaz (Te Kauwhata College).