Araura College from Aitutaki proved that great things can come from unexpected places after making a strong debut in the Schools Badminton Tournament being held at the National Auditorium in Tupapa this week.

Araura College successfully participated for the first time in the Schools Year 7 and Year 8 Badminton Tournament against Tereora College, Titikaveka College, Nukutere College, Papaaroa School, Apii Te Uki Ou, Apii Avarua, Apii Nikao and Apii Arorangi.

The 16-members team from Aitutaki surprised participants and spectators with their top placings in several categories, including the overall junior champions, the top junior boy in singles division and top spot in girls doubles division.

Also, all their players made it into the semi-finals.

The visitors were nervous entering the competition since most of them had only picked up a badminton racquet for the first time last term.

Araura College coach Rere Mataiti was proud of his team’s success.

“Our kids are pretty good at volleyball and when we started badminton training last term I saw the massive potential in our kids,” shared Mataiti.

“We received help from Thomas (Ngauru), the president of badminton. We were also fortunate to have four of our top Cook Islands players come to Aitutaki which really inspired our kids.

“Seeing our country’s top player boosted our kids’ morale.”

The Araura College players started training nine weeks ago, two days a week in the evenings, which gradually increased to three days.

Mataiti would like to acknowledge school teacher Anna Pareanga, and team manager Kaiti Paiti, as well the amazing parents “who had our backs”.

Two big fundraisers in Aitutaki helped out with their expenses to Rarotonga.

“We would also like to thank Ewan Smith of Air Rarotonga for supporting our kids and giving them opportunities like this,” Mataiti said.

Thomas Ngauru, president of Cook Islands Badminton, said they were pleased that Araura College accepted their invitation to be part of the annual school event.

“We have been amazed at their dedication and how quickly the students have improved and we wouldn’t be surprised if they snatched a trophy or two,” said Ngauru.

Today, the Year 9 and 10 age groups will be battling it out on the badminton courts at the National Auditorium from 9am. Families and members of the public are welcome to support the upcoming badminton stars.