June is such a busy month at OVS, and a trip to the ISA Athletics is always a highlight! Special mentions to FH who achieved 2 gold medals for the 80m sprint and also the long jump. JM celebrated a Silver medal in the Howler throw and the Y6 ladies relay race team stormed home with a bronze medal. Such fabulous results from all the children and great sportmanship on display which is a trademark of our wonderful pupils.
Participating in regional athletics competitions against children from other primary schools provides a multifaceted array of benefits crucial for young individuals’ development. Physically, athletics offers a broad spectrum of activities—running, jumping, and throwing—that are fundamental to developing gross motor skills, coordination, speed, strength, and endurance. Children learn proper techniques for various disciplines, enhancing their physical literacy and promoting a foundation for lifelong physical activity and healthy habits. Unlike team sports, athletics often highlights individual effort within a supportive group setting, allowing children to set personal goals and experience the satisfaction of improving their own performance, fostering a strong sense of self-achievement.
Beyond the physical, these competitions are powerful arenas for emotional and social growth. Children learn invaluable lessons in perseverance, discipline, and dedication as they train and strive to better their personal bests. They develop resilience by facing challenges, managing pre-competition nerves, and handling both successes and disappointments with grace. Socially, while individual events are central, the team aspect of school representation fosters camaraderie and mutual encouragement among teammates. Interacting with children from different schools and backgrounds promotes sportsmanship, respect for opponents, and an understanding of fair play. These regional events also offer a tangible goal to work towards, motivating consistent effort and providing a platform for children to demonstrate their abilities in a structured, exciting environment. Ultimately, regional athletics competitions are instrumental in building confident, resilient, and physically capable young individuals who appreciate the value of effort, personal growth, and healthy competition.