The British School Al Khubairat are set host the BSME (British Schools in the Middle East) Games for the U13 age group over three days later this month in a highly anticipated event at New York University’s Abu Dhabi campus.
The competition will see 15 schools travel to Abu Dhabi from across the Middle East to join hosts BSAK in the multi-sport event, which attracts some of the biggest names in school sport from across the region.
Headmaster of The British School Al Khubairat, Mark Leppard, spoke to the BSME website ahead of the Games, he said:
“With competition in a variety of sports for both girls and boys, I know there will be a great deal of excitement and nerves as well as highs and lows when the final whistles blow. However, I have no doubt that each and every competitor will be striving to perform at their very best.”
Leppard emphasised the importance of promoting positive sporting values throughout the event, which runs between 19th and 21st February, adding that sporting success is not the only focus.
“The competition and results are one element of this event, but the Games are far more than what takes place in the pool, on the pitch or on court,” he said.
“They are about team spirit, new friendships and camaraderie that will last beyond the event itself.”
With the Games fast approaching, students and staff at BSAK are busy making sure that everything is in place for the biggest multi-school sports event of the academic year.
Jonny Coombs, Head of PE at BSAK, has been in charge of the team tasked with organising the U13 Games this year. He told Gulf Youth Sport he is looking forward to the event and says the organisational aspects of the competition are close to completion.
“Preparations are well underway with 15 schools joining BSAK for the tournament from across the Middle East. The event promises to be a showcase of sporting talent, and the logistics and planning is almost finished.”
Like Leppard, Coombs was keen to emphasise the wider benefits of taking part in an event like the BSME Games. He said the Games offered students “friendships, competition and a unique opportunity to participate in a top class event at world class facilities.”
Turning his thoughts to BSAK’s chances of sporting success, Coombs added: “BSAK are current U15 champions and won the event in Bahrain in November and we hope to make this a unique double next week.”
With football, volleyball, netball, and athletics on the menu, the event is a mouth-watering prospect for any sports fan. As well as hosting a successful Game, BSAK will also be hoping for some success of their own. Coombs was optimistic of his own team’s chances, particularly on the soccer pitch: “Football is the major strength of BSAK and we are hoping for a double football gold.”
The Gulf Youth Sport cameras will be in attendance at the BSME Games throughout the weekend. We'll bring you the best of the action from what is sure to be an unforgettable 3-days.
For more information about the BSME Games, visit their website here. To find out more about the event times and venues, you can contact the British School of Al Khubairat directly on +971 (0)4 226 2280, or email: secondaryenquiries@britishschool.sch.ae.