St Mary’s college was divided into four houses this week, each with their own colour, as part of an interschool athletics tournament that could lead participants onto bigger things.

At Apia Park Stadium this week all four houses competed in both track and field events: there was Aquinas in red, Avila in yellow, Orleans in blue and Deporres in green.

The College's Principal Lepetiaina Sina Fitu said that by the end of the event they will select a competitive team to compete in this year’s Zone Athletics next month and then the Champs of Champs Athletics Competition in August. 

“It has been two years since the last Inter-School Zone Athletics were held due to COVID-19 restrictions, and that is why we are excited for this year’s Zone Athletics,” she said.

Lepetiaina further said that St Mary’s has participated in various inter-school competitions this year such as tag-rugby, touch rugby and netball.

The school has been in preparation for the athletics event for two weeks, emphasised Lepetiaina.

“We prioritise participating in these competitions to assist in the nurturing and boosting the development of up and coming sporting prospects educated within St Mary’s College,” she said. 

“Sports can be another avenue or career path that our young ones can pursue,” said Lepetiaina.  

She added that modern-day athletes are getting contracts that see them earning large salaries to play in the sport they love.

Student Rebecca Sio, who competed in the long jump event, said she wants to pursue netball as a full-time career choice. 

“I enjoy learning about subjects such as English and History in school, but I do believe that I can also make a living playing the game I’m passionate about,” she said.

Lepetiaina expressed her gratitude towards the parents of the students for supporting and cheering on the students who partook in the competition, and also thanked companies Taula Beverages, Chan Mow Company.Ltd, Burger Bills and Ah Liki Krissy Snacks for sponsoring the competition.