From the Head of PE and Sport 03.06.2023

U15 Spritzer Cup 2023 – KIS Climb high in final rankings

Last week I reported on the impressive progress and exciting wins that our two basketball teams had enjoyed whilst taking part in the U15 Sprizter Cup. I am pleased to announce yet more success following the finals that took place from Friday to Sunday. 

The boys took to the court against Tshung Tsin (Green Buddy) on Friday afternoon in the quarter final and played a great match against a quality and well rounded basketball team. They demonstrated outstanding determination and fight both on and off the ball. As well as a huge amount of support for one another throughout the match, highlighting the respect and trust that they have built as a team throughout the competition. Whilst they ultimately lost the game 19-53, having won 3 games in the group stages and finishing in the top 8 of 16 teams is a massive improvement from just 3 months ago in the last tournament. 

Well done to all team members – Tony, Leroy, Sebastien, Ken Zi, Prashaant, Ian Zi, Henry H., Kevin, Taylor, Jibrail & Henry N.  

The girls team went into their semi-final against the top placed team from the other group which was Tshung Tsin Deevin. The mental side of sport is just as important as the physical side and there are so many lessons that you can only learn from being placed in those tough situations. The number of positive takeaways the girls would have taken from that game, even if it was a loss, will only strengthen them going forward. Going down 12-67 the girls then went into the 3rd and 4th playoff for their chance to improve on their final position from the last tournament. 

On Sunday afternoon, the team were back again, as were the impressive traveling KIS cheer squad who had been so amazing right the way through the tournament. Special mentions to Dr. Wong who led the chants and Sebastien with his sign and the rest of the boys team who were once again there to support their teammates and friends. Having to back up the very next night after such a tough game the night before was always going to be hard for both teams and it was likely to be another physically and mentally testing match. 

It was an incredibly close affair and the tension was almost too much for some on the sidelines. KIS held a narrow lead most of the game and you could see the sheer will to not quit on the girls faces during the 2nd half. During the 4th quarter, Kian Kok managed to take the lead by a point, but credit to the team, they dug even deeper and answered with some big baskets so that when the clock (that seemed to stand still for most of the match!) finally hit 00:00 it was a monstrous cheer from all around as KIS took out 3rd place with a 38-34 well deserved win! 

Like the boys, the girls finishing in 3rd place out of 8 teams was a big improvement and testament to the hard work and application they had put in, not only during the two week tournament but in the lead up to. I am sure that these successes will only strengthen their resolve and motivate them to continue working towards achieving future goals. 

The teams were tremendously well supported and guided by basketball coach Andew who started working with KIS this year by running our ECA Basketball sessions for both Primary and Secondary students. He has since expanded his involvement by offering additional training sessions for interested players outside of school. As has already been mentioned the development as a result of his efforts and the players commitment is clear to see so I would like to thank him for his time and expert coaching throughout the tournament. 

Congratulations to the following players: Dasha, Amanda, Isabella, Pui San, Sophie, Ana, Kiera, Haylie, Mischa, Olivia, Nayeon & Dashie

Liga SupaRimau Season B – Round 1 wrap-up

It was a busy weekend for sport with the first round of Liga SupaRimau Season B taking place on Saturday. Just like our basketball teams, it was wonderful to see the progress from where the players and teams are now, compared to where they were at the start of Season A on full display. 

Even at 8:00am, it was very warm making it challenging for the two teams, but none of the players stopped running and were wet through by the end of the final whistle. 

Under 10’s match review from Coach Clifford:-

It was great to see the Under 10’s back on the pitch this morning. The first third was not great and a lesser team would have let their heads drop. But not the Vipers! Spirits were still high and the second third was fantastic and we drew 1-1! Even in the extreme heat every player fought for the team and we’re only going to get better the more we play together. 

There were many players we could have given player of the match to but we decided in the end to give it to Vivian. She showed the Viper spirit all the time she was on the pitch and with her well timed tackles stopped many attacks from ending in goals. Great job Vivian! 

Thank you parents as always for the support on the sidelines! 

Good luck to all teams this morning, especially our newly formed Under 8’s who will be taking the field at 9:00am for their first match of the competition!  

Fixtures for Round 3 Saturday 10th June:  

Miss Catriona Watt

Head of PE and Sport