Glorious decade for AIMS Games

The 2013 NZCT AIMS Games are over after an unforgettable week of sport for the 6500 Year 7 and 8 students who attended, representing 193 schools from throughout New Zealand, Australia and the Cook Islands.

Tournament Director Vicki Semple of Sport Bay of Plenty has been with the event right from its inception in 2004 which had 750 competitors from 17 schools competing in four sports.

She is delighted with the continued support from around New Zealand, Australia and now the Pacific Islands.

"The growth in athlete numbers confirms the tournament's value as a pathway to sporting success and future champions. It's been another fantastic week, and I am continually amazed by the passion, determination and spirit of the competitors and supporters," Semple said.

"The tournament has been a huge success. A special congratulations to all the talented and wonderful sporting competitors. I feel privileged to be a part of such an amazing team and have thoroughly enjoyed the 2013 NZCT AIMS Games experience. We have a fantastic committee and supporting personnel, which put their heart and soul into their tasks. The 16 individual and team sports were all superbly organised and ran to a very high standard.

"A huge thank you to the code co-ordinators, the schools supporting them, officials, volunteers, sponsors and Sport BOP staff. Special thanks also to the Tauranga City Council, local businesses and organisations that have supplied and delivered quality products and services. It has been fantastic working with you all."

Tournament chairman Brian Diver said the organisation that goes into this event is unbelievable and everyone's hard work has paid off with another extremely well-run event.

"The team we have is to be commended for their hard work, and their commitment to the AIMS Games, especially Vicki, who we are fortunate to have had as our tournament director for the whole ten years, and we look forward to future events, her passion and tenacity is something to behold," Diver said.

Sport Bay of Plenty would like to congratulate the NZCT AIMS Games Trust on their tenth year.

"After watching the week of competition and great sportsmanship, the smiles and the friendships, I can see the wonderful opportunity the AIMS Games gives the future sporting stars of New Zealand," said chief executive Wayne Werder.

"Sport Bay of Plenty is pleased to be associated with the event and look forward to the next ten years."