Apii Nikao has dominated the Cook Islands Primary Schools Volleyball rising Stars Competition.

The tournament ended on Saturday with intense competition across all divisions, showcasing the talent and determination of young athletes, both in the boys’ and girls’ from Year 5/6 and 7/8 grades.

Nikao School continued its dominance by fielding competitive teams in every grade, maintaining its reputation as a volleyball powerhouse.

Rising Stars winner Apii Nikao Boys division Yr7/8. 24111112

In the Girls’ 5/6 division, Nikao White claimed first place, while their counterparts, Nikao Green, secured second.

The Boys’ 5/6 category saw a similar result, with Nikao White emerging victorious, followed by Rutaki in second place.

In the Girls’ 7/8 division, Nukutere College broke Nikao Green’s winning streak with a determined performance to take first place.

Nikao Green finished as runners-up in a closely contested match.

The Boys’ 7/8 division was an all-Nikao affair, with Nikao Purple claiming both first and second places, demonstrating their depth in this age group.

The tournament also celebrated schools that embodied the spirit of sportsmanship and teamwork.

The Most Inspiring School Awards, sponsored by BCI, recognised several schools for their efforts.

In the Girls’ 5/6 division, Te Uki Ou was awarded, while Immanuela won the accolade in the Boys’ 5/6 category. Arorangi was named the most inspiring school for the Girls’ 7/8 division, and Nukutere College received the honour for Boys’ 7/8.

Jackie Rongo, a member of the Rising Stars Executive Committee, praised the tournament’s impact on the community and the development of young talent.

 “Rising Stars provide our tamariki with the opportunity to connect with each other and their community and help develop young talents in the sport, and today we have all witnessed just that,” she said.

The tournament highlighted the growing enthusiasm for volleyball among primary school students and provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills. With strong performances and competitive matches across all divisions, the event was a success in promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and community spirit.