The 2015 Halberg Games hold a special place in my heart as they came at a crossroads in my life. Sport was always something familiar to me, both from watching events like the Olympics and being active in primary school. However, in my teen years, it became something difficult and isolating. Long gone were the days of teachers and peers making an effort to make it enjoyable.
This is why the Games were so significant for me. Earlier that year, I had attended Outward Bound with Halberg, which completely changed my understanding of what it meant to be included. I had just discovered adapted and modified sports again, and the Games provided a space for me to continue learning and growing in my sporting journey. Some of my favourite memories include discovering archery for the first time, a sport I had never explored before, which I loved (and actually continued for a while after the Games). I also had the honour of reading the athlete’s oath and lighting the flame, which was such a cool moment. While these are really great memories of the first Games, what I remember most is how the Games felt. Being included, having fun, side by side with my peers. It’s the feeling of discovering a new sport or ability that can’t be compared to anything in the world.
While writing this, I have been able to reflect on the years I have attended the Games and, as simple as it sounds, I’ve realised the Games have shifted my thinking from ‘sport is pointless’ to ‘Hey! This is actually pretty cool’ and ‘What? I can be part of this??’ Growing up in New Zealand, there was always a part of me that longed to be part of the sporting culture, and I’ve realised recently that through the Games, I was able to fulfil this wish. That is one heck of a confidence boost that has had ripple effects across my whole life, from applying for the Halberg Youth Council, my academic studies, and even chasing my dreams of creating and mixing music. I’m more willing to go on adventures with my friends to the beach or walking tracks, continually asking why not? Surely this activity can be adapted or changed?
There are often moments in our lives that define us or our thinking, moments that on the surface appear trivial but have such an impact. The Games are partly the origin of where my mindset shifted, where I learned to truly step outside of my defined comfort zone and experience new things, like archery, running, or swimming. When faced with a challenging situation, I often ask myself, “Who told you that you can’t achieve that?” This has fuelled my confidence in all aspects of life. It wasn’t a massive revelatory experience, just a mindset that was built up by people at the Games making a way for me to thrive.
Speaking of confidence building, I am reminded of having the honour to speak to the Governor-General, Her Excellency Dame Patsy Reddy, on behalf of the Halberg Youth Council about the importance of disability inclusion and to attend the dinner to celebrate diversity at Government House. A moment that wouldn’t have been possible without the Games. Imagine, if I hadn’t gone to Outward Bound, experienced such an inclusive space that was reinforced by the Games in 2015, I wouldn’t be in the position I am now. It’s amazing how such little things can have such an impact on who we are and our self-belief.
If you’ll allow some musings and advice from a slightly older person, you have such an opportunity to be part of a unique event! Please, please have fun across the weekend! Yes, the competition can be exciting but never let that get in the way of the joy of being active, the joy of sport. We only get one life, so make the most of it! While the Games has and will continue to change over time, our coaches and providers have gotten better at supporting you with each year that passes, so you don’t need to be afraid to try new things. Remember, at its core, the Games have always been about community and moments of joy, and that will never change. So, in light of that, you should give that sport a go. Who knows where it’ll take you!
Ten years after the first Halberg Games, I write this as the Data and Insights Officer at Halberg. Working for the organisation that helped change my life has been a unique experience and continues to influence my perspective. Going all the way from a participant to a youth council member to a staff member, has offered a depth of knowledge and understanding that I didn’t expect, and being able to contribute to the vision of an Inclusive New Zealand has been an honour.
While sport and Halberg will always have a place in my heart, my goals for the future revolve around music—writing, producing, mixing, and mastering, which has always been a passion of mine. Guess what had an influence on me pursuing my dreams? That’s right, being at the Games!
Have an amazing 10th Halberg Games, don’t take the opportunity for granted, and I look forward to the day when the Halberg Games have thousands of athletes from all walks of life, having fun together, and experiencing moments of joy.
