Amping up sports in schools

Marlborough’s up and coming sports stars have been given a helping hand, thanks to a bright idea from a Blenheim business.

Bohally Intermediate School, Blenheim School and Mayfield School are the 2024 recipients of the Aotea Electric and Air Conditioning’s Kids in Sport project.

The schools received thousands of dollars in contributions from Aotea Electric and their customers to put towards new sporting equipment.

The little donations add up to make a big difference.

Aotea Electric’s Matt Ker says staff are proud to know their contributions help lift barriers to sport.

“Alongside our direct support of Marlborough netball, squash and athletics, five percent of every service job and heat pump invoice we do go towards the school of the customer’s choosing.”

Paid as a lump sum, the money goes towards sports uniforms, equipment or subs, he says.

Delivering donations to the schools on Friday, Matt was welcomed by excited pupils.

The move makes sense, Matt explains, with sports key to helping children strike a balance.

“Aside from the obvious physical benefits, sports develop essential skills for success like discipline, resilience and adaptability, provide a healthy outlet for stress, boost confidence, and foster lasting friendships.

“Social media and video games provide instant dopamine hits, making it harder for kids to focus, handle challenges, and build real-world relationships, and sports counteract these effects by encouraging face-to-face interaction, teamwork, and problem-solving”.

Mayfield School principal David Nott says their share will be used to directly subsidise school-based involvement into sport.

“Our tamariki get involved in a range of sports throughout the year and, as a school and community, we strive to enable every student who wants to play to be able to play,” David says.

“Just like the cost of living, sports subs have risen over the years, but participating and competing in sports is a strength of the Mayfield School tamariki and is an important component of what we do at Mayfield School.”

Bohally Intermediate School deputy principal Dan Hammond says staff are “incredibly grateful” for the generous donation which ensures every student has the chance to participate, develop teamwork skills, and stay active.

“It is crucial to get the balance right between at desk learning, screen time and being active for children to be successful, and PE and sport plays a crucial role in teaching our values of resilience, respect, and learning.”

Blenheim School teacher Gill Caughey echoed these sentiments, explaining student wellbeing is a top priority.

“We aim to create opportunities for every student while removing barriers to participation.

“We encourage our students to take part in physical activities by promoting sports and addressing any obstacles that may arise, offer financial assistance by subsidising sports fees and providing appropriate footwear for those in need.

“The funding from Aotea plays a vital role in reducing sports fees and acquiring footwear for students who cannot afford them”.