NICK.BROOK@cluthaleader.co.nz
Two Lawrence Area School (LAS) pupils will be competing at the national level after the school’s strong showing at the New Zealand Area School Tournament.
In the first week of the July holidays, 11 LAS pupils travelled to join others from Catlins, Maniototo, Waiau, Roxburgh and Twizel Area schools and compete in a variety of sporting codes as the ‘‘South of the South’’ teams.
Codes included rugby, netball, football, basketball and ki o rahi — a traditional Maori team sport played on a circular field.
Five of the LAS pupils were then selected to play for South Island teams in the North Island, leading to Charlotte Kenny and Toby Harrex being selected for New Zealand teams to compete at a national level.
‘‘This is a great success for our small school and all students represented LAS in an outstanding manner,’’ associate principal Sara McTavish said.
‘‘We are very proud of these students’ achievements and have a huge thank you to everyone in the community who supported the fundraising events to make it possible for these students to attend the New Zealand Area Schools tournament.’’
Toby and Charlotte will be travelling to training camps for their codes and competing in tournaments with other teams selected at the New Zealand level.
‘‘We’re all really passionate about playing our sports but the opportunity to compete in these big competitions was a great experience for meeting new people and making friends around the country,’’ Ms Kenny said.
‘‘We’re really grateful to the staff and friends of the school for making it possible and continuing to support us.’’
