A DOMINANT sporting display has landed Mil Lel Primary School its first Mount Gambier District Small Schools Sports Day crown in almost three decades.
The small school – situated just north of Mount Gambier – stormed home to win by over 300 points and claim the silverware for the first time in 24 years, finishing ahead of Suttontown and Moorak primary schools respectively.
Bringing together the district’s rural primary schools for competitive fun at Blue Lake Sports Park, the event also features the traditional street parade which brings Mount Gambier’s central business district to a halt.
Limestone Coast education director Adam Box said the day was something students looked forward to every year.
“The day is massively supported by community members with parents preparing and their kids ready,” he said.
“I think the event is valued by the smaller schools and gives a fun opportunity to develop a healthier and happier lifestyle.
“I think it also gives the schools a community presence but they are already valued anyway due to the quality education they provide.”
Mr Box said before the event was formed years ago, the day may have been the only time for students to socalise with other schools.
“Times have changed with schools now combining and going on camps and trip with each other,” he said.
“Although, the tradition of this event has been sustained and is still heavily alive.
“The tradition is valued by community members and I think that will continue.”
Mil Lel Primary School wellbeing coordinator Michelle Schutz said students literally marched to the own beat of their drum, making music for the street parade to set the tone for a strong day out for the school.
“The students had a few practices to get their rhythm going with the upper primary school teacher showing them the ropes throughout the year,” she said.
“All small schools participate in the street parade before the sports day, calling out their war cries to the public.
“The vibe it brings is positive and the kids really enjoy shouting and representing their school.”
Ms Schutz said the event gave students a unique opportunity to compete against peers outside of their normal school networks.
“They do not usually have many to compete against in their own year levels, especially in our internal sports day.
“Unless students go to South Australian Primary Schools Amateur Sports Association (SAPSASA) events, students do not get that opportunity to compete and interact with other schools so this is perfect for that.
“Our whole school is involved whether it be our championship sprinters or through novelty events.”
