A Win for Warrior

On the 9^th July, a beautiful sunny summer’s day, Great Marlow held its annual Sports Day. Students from all years took part in a range of events from running races and discus throws to the high jump. They were competing in their school houses; Endeavour, Endurance, Warrior and Victory.

As a Sixth Former, I have attended sports day for five years, and I can honestly say that this year something was different. Of course students have always cheered for their houses, but this year there was an even bigger sense of excitement and engagement than I have noticed in previous years. People made up chants, painted themselves in their house colours, celebrated and congratulated each other throughout. It was also fantastic to see people cheering, even for those who weren’t in their houses because it showed excellent sportsmanship. There was a real sense of community as students of all ages came together and bonded over the competition.

A particular highlight of the day was the tug of war, which gave students the chance to work together as a team in a traditional show of strength. The teachers vs sixth form was especially entertaining, and whilst both sides put up a hard struggle, the sixth form came out on top.

During the event the Interact group, who support charities such as Build on Books and RettUK, were selling ice lollies and water bottles to raise money and to help the students cool down.

Mark Shepherdson, Head Boy of Great Marlow School, said: “The atmosphere was fantastic as always, and it was great to see everyone give their best! I think everybody looks forward to that afternoon and it more than lived up to expectations. Well done all.”

Ishbel Cumming, Head Girl of Great Marlow School, said: “Sports day encourages students to engage more in school life due to the incredible sense of unity and enthusiasm it brings! Sports day brings our school together to encourage and motivate each other and really work as a team, a vital part of school life.”

As the day came to an end and the scores were counted up, there was a real sense of anticipation. Everyone who had worked so hard waited eagerly to hear which house had been victorious. As Mr Ross prepared to read out the scores, there was silence as everyone held their breath in expectation.

Although they did well in the year 8 total, Endurance overall came fourth. In third place was Victory, in second place was Endeavour. As soon as this was announced, there was a huge cheer as Warrior rejoiced in the knowledge that they had won. When I first joined the school, Warrior consistently came low in the leader board, so it was fabulous to see them win this time;  it certainly was a well-deserved triumph.

Every student, from every house, who took part should be congratulated; their commitment and determination made for an excellent show of sporting talent.

A huge thank you has to be sent to all of the PE staff, other teachers and students who organised and ran the day making  it the great success it was. And, again, a special thank you to all to the students who took part.

Peter Nelson and Kate Mathews