Photo Karen Graham.
Last week’s elementary school Gymnastics competition brought students from dozens of schools in the area to demonstrate their skills in pre-established routines for a standing-room-only crowd at the Peterborough Wellness Centre.
Last week, local elementary students participated in the annual Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board Gymnastics and Dance competition at the Wellness Centre in Peterborough.
This year there were over 650 athletes from all parts of the Board participating in this amazing event.
North Cavan took an incredible 53 gymnasts to the competition, consisting of 21 boys and 32 girls. Students practiced their routines at lunch recesses, Phys. Ed classes and even at home! All athletes performed set routines in front of judges and were awarded bronze, silver or gold ribbons based on assessment criteria. The students were coached by Mr. Hamel and Mrs. Woollacott. Mr. Hamel has brought a team from North Cavan for almost 20 years now and was amazed at the continued interest by so many students.
The 53 athletes were also beyond excited to present their dance to the crowd of standing-room-only spectators. This compelling dance was based on some of the breakdancing routines they learned under the direction of local instructor Jimmy Chapman at sessions which took place during the schoolyear. It was a rewarding day for all of the athletes, educators and spectators. Go cougars go!
Millbrook South Cavan students were led by Mrs. Nelson and Ms. Greer who coached this team of participants. These coaches felt the meet was a huge success for the Millbrook South Cavan Hawks team, which was comprised of “hardworking, talented and dedicated Junior students who have been practicing over the past month to perfect individual routines and a group dance. The MSC Hawks showed wonderful spirit at the meet, and each gymnast brought home either a bronze, silver or gold ribbon. Overall, the event a wonderful display of skill and an exceptional outcome for the MSC Hawks!”
Elementary school activities like this allow all students to try their hand at a variety of sports where they get a taste of different options they can pursue outside the classroom, and performing in front of a crowd develops poise and confidence a builds critical life skills that extend far beyond their physical performances. Well done, everyone! KG