The 8th Annual Primary School Badminton Tournament held over a week ago brought vibrant energy to the courts, showcasing the talents of young athletes from schools across Rarotonga.

The event highlighted sportsmanship, teamwork, and a passion for badminton, with students competing fiercely in the Year 5 and Year 6 doubles categories.

At the end of an exciting day, Apii Avarua claimed the overall championship, earning an impressive 152 points. They were followed closely by Apii Nikao, which secured second place with 131 points. Papaaroa Adventist School took third place with 105 points, narrowly edging out Apii Rutaki, which finished fourth with 104 points. St. Joseph’s rounded out the top five, coming in fifth with 103 points, demonstrating just how tight the competition was among the leading schools.

Reflecting on the success of the event, Thomas Ngauru, president of Badminton Cook Islands, said, “The primary tournament was a huge success, especially seeing the level of play grow tenfold compared to previous years. And not just the few usual schools, but from everyone, like Rutaki, Papaaroa, and Arorangi schools – it’s so exciting to see.”

Ngauru also commended the talent from the outer islands, saying, “Of course, having our athletes from Tekaaroa Adventist School in Aitutaki take the Year 6 Boys is a testament to the amazing talent there is in the outer islands. It’s so inspiring to witness this growth in badminton.”

In the Year 6 Boys Doubles, Stephen Tearetoa and Obeda Mataiti from Tekaaroa Adventist School showcased excellent coordination and strategy to win the championship. Their strong smashes and quick reflexes were unmatched. The runner-up duo, Tamahahe Tisam and Josef Urirau of Apii Takitumu, played with determination and skill, making the match a thrilling contest.

The Year 6 Girls Doubles title went to Ruapine Tereapii and Katrina Toru from Apii Avarua, who dominated the court with precise drop shots and swift net play. The runners-up, Elimoana Napa and Ziah Ngaata of Apii Nikao, displayed great teamwork and agility, earning well-deserved applause.

In the Year 5 Boys Doubles, Konrad Heather and Touariki Unuia of Apii Avarua stood out with their impressive footwork and consistent play, taking home the championship. Jeremiah Elikana and Kayden Nicholas-Herman from Apii Nikao, the runners-up, impressed the audience with their sharp rallies and defensive skills.

For the Year 5 Girls Doubles, Cleo Marsters and Moeana Matheson from Apii Nikao emerged victorious, demonstrating exceptional focus and coordination. The runner-up team, Marian Tauu and Lucia Toko of Papaaroa Adventist School, showcased resilience and determination throughout their matches.

Ngauru noted the potential in younger players, saying, “The most surprising category was the Year 4 students with so many naturally talented players. Thanks to the schools and our coaches for the hard work in supporting these young athletes.”

Looking ahead, badminton development continues with children’s sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4pm at the National Sports Arena. “These sessions give kids an opportunity to keep playing and hopefully find the next Kaiyin Mataio or Te Pa Tupa,” Ngauru shared.

He also extended gratitude to the sponsors, saying, “Meitaki maata to our sponsors CITC for the kids’ snack packs and Vodafone, Badminton Oceania, and BWF for their generous support.”