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During the autumn school holiday break, 45 students and 6 staff embarked on a 10-day international sports tour to Canada and Fiji, competing in rugby, football, hockey, and netball.

Canada

Starting in Vancouver students spent three nights staying with host families from Collingwood School. All teams played competitive games against Collingwood, with the girls’ netball team also playing against Burnaby North High School.

On Vancouver Island, matches at St. Michael’s University School showcased the team’s sportsmanship, and students enjoyed sightseeing in downtown Victoria and Whistler before swapping the snow for sunshine and heading to Fiji.

Fiji

In Fiji, the students participated in cultural ceremonies, recreational water activities, and sporting matches with local schools. A visit to Kaoinasau Primary School, located in the hinterland of the coastline, ended the tour on a heartwarming note, with donations and cultural exchanges strengthening bonds. This international sports tour was not only about competing in various sports but also about understanding and embracing different cultures, building lifelong friendships, and creating lasting memories through shared experiences.

Students Olie Horne and Heidi Gerrish shared their tour experiences.

Shifting Perspectives

“Playing sport in Canada and Fiji broadened my perspective on sports beyond just competition. In both countries, I encountered diverse sporting cultures that emphasised not only winning but also sportsmanship and community. This exposure helped me appreciate sports as a tool for building relationships, fostering teamwork, and promoting mutual respect among competitors,” stated football player Olie Horne. 

“The tour exposed me to different cultures and sporting traditions. It showed that participating in sport goes further than winning or losing and demonstrates that no matter where you are from in the world, sport can connect and bring people together.

In Canada, we saw the significance of playing a sport within a school community, not just for the players but also the spectators. Whether it was rugby, hockey, soccer or netball the Canadians had enthusiasm and brought great sportsmanship.

On the other hand, Fiji showed us how much they value sport and its significance culturally,” shared netball player Heidi Gerrish.

Sportsmanship and Teamwork

“One of the most striking aspects of the tour was witnessing how athletes from diverse backgrounds embodied different expressions of sportsmanship and teamwork, each shaped by their cultural values and experiences. From the disciplined teamwork of the Canadian athletes to the resilient and joyful spirit of the Fijian players, I learned valuable lessons about the importance of embracing diversity and respecting different approaches to competition,” Olie reflected.

“Participating in the tour demonstrated that no matter where you are from in the world, these qualities, on and off the field or court, are similar and highly valued,” added Heidi.

Creating Lasting Memories

“Visiting the primary school and small village in Fiji was a memorable experience for us all, as it gave us insights into their culture and way of life. We got the opportunity to connect with young Fijian kids, play games and donate sporting uniforms, educational gifts, and more,” Heidi recalled.

“Listening to the Fijians sing after the rugby match was a deeply moving and unforgettable experience. As the final whistle blew, signalling the end of the game, both teams gathered for the post-match presentation. Following the presentation, the Fijian players suddenly broke into a song, their melodic voices filling the air with an indescribable energy and emotion. The song they sang was a traditional Fijian hymn, often sung to celebrate victory, express gratitude, or commemorate significant events.

It was a surreal experience that transcended language barriers and cultural differences. A moment of pure authenticity and raw emotion, where the power of music brought people together in shared joy and celebration, despite losing the game,” Olie shared.