The long-awaited day greeted Sacred Heart Nursery and Primary School, Ozoro, Delta State, Nigeria with a brisk sun and a lovely smile. Yes, indeed the sun decided to take it easy on us that morning as we marked the 7th edition of interhouse sports on the 6th of March, 2026. One could feel the excitement in the air bursting out from the pupils, staff and parents of this noble institution as they all waited to hear the whistle of the challenge.
The event kicked off at 10am with an opening prayer. Then the national flag with its notable colours, “green, white, green”, swayed with the delight of the beautiful breeze as it was ceremoniously raised while the National Anthem was sung by the pupils. The entire group of athletes and competitors was reminded of the spirit of sportsmanship, team work, perseverance, unity and a healthy competition.
As the adage says, the winner takes it all; the looser standing small. This was not the case on this day and in this space, as the pupils were encouraged that Everyone Is A Winner based on their efforts and capabilities, though the best of the winners will emerge.
A lot of age-related activities followed and everyone kicked off to a flying start. The activities included races: 20m for pre-nursery pupils; filling in the basket race; filling in the bottle race; two-legged race; relay race, 200m, 100m, 50m; staff race and parents’ race. Catching the Delta train was not left out. This is a competition teaching children how to dress themselves properly in their native attire. Again, catching the school bus left all thrilled as everyone watched the children dress themselves up for school without been helped by parents. This was also to teach children independence and the ability to take up responsibilities for themselves at this age.
Another notable activity was the march past, so beautiful to behold and loved by parents and all invited guests. The display of their children’s God-given legs in unison and style to emerge the best, made their faces light up as they proudly watched. Meanwhile, the children, intent on not disappointing their audience on a day like this after all the long days of practising, were really ready and hoped for the best.
It was indeed very clement weather for us, though, as the event proceeded, the sun got delighted as if to join in the event and shone so hard. Nevertheless, the best in all the activities emerged and trophies were presented to each house according to first, second and third positions. The atmosphere was just so glorious watching the children dance in different styles to celebrate themselves in their various positions. Then came the song, Stand Up for the Champion by Right Said Fred, which left all jumping up in excitement.
Days like these remain imprinted in our hearts and indeed in the children’s hearts. Everyone was glad to be part of the story, encouraging children about the reality of healthy competition, perseverance, respect and resilience till the end. Lastly, keeping fit can never be underestimated and this legacy will continually be practised by all here and passed on to younger generations.
Sr. Gertrude Nkwocha RSC.
