450 students representing 16 schools and 6 countries gathered at our school over the weekend as we proudly hosted the British Schools in the Middle East (BSME) under 11 Games. This competition is open to the larger schools in the region, is highly competitive and provides an opportunity for athletes to test themselves at the highest level in a friendly environment. It also afforded us the opportunity to showcase our school and facilities which the other schools were envious of.
Hosting such a major event is no mean feat and we must congratulate the outstanding PE department we have at BIS Abu Dhabi along with the numerous parents, teachers, staff, students and sports leaders who gave freely of their time to make this a truly memorable event for all involved.
The term “Friendly Games” is often over used in sporting competitions but the atmosphere over the 3 days was truly friendly and supportive yet retaining the highly competitive element given the amount of training that the students put into this. A number of parents and PE teachers from many schools who have been to numerous sporting events over the years were quick to praise the event saying that this was the best one they had ever attended.
Following a superb opening ceremony attended by the entire school, the athletes then set about 3 days of intensive competition in Girls Football, Boys Football, Swimming, Basketball, Netball and Athletics.
During the 3 days there was excitement and disappointment for individuals and teams along the way but we were always proud of the effort our students placed into every performance and the way they supported each other and conducted themselves at all times. We were delighted with our overall position of 5th in this International Competition making us the highest placed Abu Dhabi School and our best performance ever at a BSME event.
Sport at BISAD continues to develop and grow and we are firmly establishing ourselves as a top sporting school throughout the region. Well done to our outstanding students for all of their hard work and the staff who put in countless hours in preparing for all sporting events. To the parents who spend countless hours supporting and taking students to and from events, we thank you for your support. Well done to everyone involved!
The British International School Abu Dhabi
