The Southern Area Schools Tournament was a whirlwind event that took place last week at Lawrance Area School. A total of 30 athletes representing our school travelled down to Lawrance to participate in the thrilling three-day tournament, filled with a variety of sports. Upon arrival, our students were warmly welcomed by the Lawrance community, who graciously provided billeting accommodations. It was heartening to receive such positive feedback about our students' behaviour and demeanour during their stay.The tournament kicked off with a formal ceremony, where representatives from Lawrance and other Area Schools delivered speeches. Each school also performed skits, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and entertainment.Wednesday's sports schedule was packed with excitement, featuring girls' basketball, mixed football, rugby trials, computer-based games, Ki-O-Rahi, badminton, squash, and indoor bowls. Notable achievements included our team securing 1st place in girls' basketball, mixed football, and squash, as well as a respectable 3rd place in Ki-O-Rahi.Thursday's lineup continued the adrenaline-fueled action, encompassing netball, boys' basketball, e-sports, chess, golf, gold panning, boys' volleyball, girls' volleyball, darts, and table tennis. Notable achievements on this day included our boys' basketball team taking 1st place, our chess team emerging victorious, and our e-sports team claiming the top spot. Additionally, our netball team secured a commendable 2nd place, while our boys' volleyball team achieved 3rd place.Friday marked the final day of the tournament and featured sports such as Rippa rugby, dodgeball, petanque, and a quiz. Our Rippa rugby team showcased their skills and clinched the 1st place victory, while our quiz team performed admirably and secured the 2nd place position.The tournament concluded with the presentation of fair play awards, where two students from each school were recognized for their outstanding sportsmanship. Congratulations to Sadie Mason and Finn McKinley from Twizel Area School for receiving these awards.Moreover, a panel of selectors identified stand-out students from the tournament, who have now been chosen to represent the South of the South team at the upcoming National Area School Tournament. This year, the national tournament will be held in Rangiora during the first week of the school holidays, and we eagerly anticipate the participation of our exceptional athletes.Overall, the Southern Area Schools Tournament was a fast-paced and exhilarating experience for our students. Their commendable performances, both on and off the field, were a testament to their dedication, sportsmanship, and teamwork.Congratulations to the following students on their selection to the Nationals Tournament:Sadie Mason - Netball, Basketball, VolleyballKiara Thyne - Netball, BasketballHazel Mason - Netball, Basketball, FootballRiley Beattie - Netball, Basketball, VolleyballRalph Henderson - Basketball, Rugby, Ki O RahiJack McLellan - Basketball, FootballFinn McKinley - Rugby, Ki o RahiJackson Parata - Basketball, Football, Ki o RahiCameron Smith - Basketball, FootballDave White - Basketball, Volleyball, RugbyUrgen Tamang - Volleyball, FootballLastly, we would like to extend a big thank you to the dedicated staff members who accompanied our students on this memorable trip. Mark and Clare Frost, Denise Arkless, and Chelsea Lousley played pivotal roles in ensuring the smooth organization and supervision of the tournament. Their commitment and support were instrumental in creating a positive and enriching experience for our students. We deeply appreciate their efforts and the invaluable contributions they made throughout the event.