Last week’s IFS Athletics Carnival was a huge success! The focus on house results was evident well before we even reached the day of the event. Kids in all age groups were calling out their house names during the week and banter between teachers and coaches was building up each day.
There was a scattering of house colours at Mingara, with some wearing hints of red, blue, green or gold while others went all out to show their commitment to their team. Students, teachers and coaches were parading their allegiances, not only in what they wore, but also with their cheers as participants raced passed them or threw different apparatus across the fields. Students cheered on their teammates, patting them on the back at the completion of their event regardless of their result.
Of course at these types of carnivals there are standouts who show great ability to win their chosen events. In every track and field event where I saw great throws, jumps or times, I didn’t see any form of gloating or gamesmanship. The level of humility from some of these young athletes was very nice to see, giving their collegemates more reason to cheer them on and pass on well-deserved praise.
The IFS staff made a sensational team, providing the glue to make the whole day tick along so enjoyably. Gavin Thomas ran an excellent carnival with any minor queries getting their just response. Timekeepers were a well-oiled unit, scaling the timing ladder for each race and then running back down to record their times at the busy marshalling area. The marshalling team was speedy in issuing place markers, avoiding any question of doubt, especially when the video reference was used! The field events looked in full control from all angles. The staff team enjoyed every moment of the day with the final stamp applied in the Staff vs Student Relay – the victory was well earned!
The house of Roberts accumulated the most points, making it the overall champion for the day. The inaugural IFS Athletics Trophy was handed to the house captain who raised it above her head in triumph, to the cheers of the Roberts clan, of which I am proudly a part.
Team building was visible all day. Staff and students created an excellent event that brought the whole IFS community that little bit closer.
So this is just my thanks to everyone who made the event a success.
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