In January, a group of Wairoa U18 basketball players packed their bags and headed to Rotorua to compete at the Poitūkohu Māori Aotearoa Tournament, an opportunity that gave our local rangatahi the chance to test themselves against teams from across Aotearoa.

For a number of the boys, this was their first experience travelling away to compete at a national-level Māori basketball tournament. Stepping into an environment like this brought new opposition, different styles of play and the challenge of competing away from home, all while proudly representing their iwi, whānau and community.

Across the tournament, there were both wins and losses, but what stood out was the way the boys continued to compete. They showed resilience, determination and sportsmanship throughout, taking each game as another opportunity to learn and improve.

Coming up against teams from different parts of the country also exposed the boys to basketball outside of what they would normally experience at home. They had to adapt to different opponents and styles of play, helping them develop their skills, confidence and understanding of the game.

But the trip was about much more than what happened on the scoreboard.

Travelling together gave the boys an opportunity to strengthen friendships, create lasting memories and share experiences away from the basketball court. Their time in Rotorua also included a visit to Te Puia, adding another dimension to what was already a memorable few days together.

These are the opportunities that can have an impact well beyond one tournament. The experience encouraged confidence, teamwork and leadership while giving the boys a chance to challenge themselves in a new environment and see where their commitment to basketball can take them. Their accountability report reflects a group who were grateful for the opportunity and proud of the way they represented themselves and their community.

For WYAT, being able to support our rangatahi to access experiences like this is something we are proud of. It is not only about helping them get onto the basketball court, but also about giving them opportunities to travel, experience something new, build connections and add another experience to their kete.

Congratulations to the boys on taking up the opportunity and representing Wairoa with pride. We hope this is one of many more opportunities to come as they continue developing both on and off the court.