THE recent school holidays saw a flurry of activity for the Whakatāne Intermediate School badminton team.

With 13 talented students competing in the Western Bay of Plenty Badminton competition, every team member returned home with a medal, showcasing their hard work and dedication.

Annabelle Plunket, in particular, continued her impressive winning streak. She faced off against more experienced opponents in the under-19 division, competing against players with extensive national-grade experience and even national champion squash players.

Although she faced a challenging start, losing her first match 17-21, Annabelle quickly adapted to her opponents’ powerful and strategic shots.

She triumphed in the final, winning 21-16. Her success sets her up well for this year’s AIMS Games, where she aims to make Bay of Plenty history and vie for a medal in a sport dominated by Auckland and Hamilton players.

In the under-15 boys’ division, Keelan Dawson remained unbeatable, delivering strong serves and returns throughout the day. His main competition came from his schoolmates, Dillon Ford and Luka Drayson.

Dillon nearly toppled Keelan, but his powerful smashes secured Keelan the win, with Dillon claiming second place. Luka had a memorable day, stepping up into the under-15 division, staying composed during his bronze medal match and executing a five-point winning streak to secure victory against his Tauranga opponent, 21-20.

Mia Hyndman also shone in the under-15 girls’ division, winning all her matches.

Her toughest competition came from her teammate, Ella Copeland, who secured second place.

In the under-13 girls’ division, Silvie Brunetti used her experience to claim gold over Willow Peden.

Myanna Wilshier Tepania and Isabella Mitton battled closely in the bronze medal final, with Myanna executing some classy shots to secure third place.

The team’s success continued into the doubles’ competition. Willow and Parker Taare claimed gold in the under-13 girls’ category, with Olivia Hathaway and Isabella taking home bronze.

Annabelle and Ella secured gold in the under-15 girls’ division, followed by Mia and Sophia Hall with silver, and Myanna and Silvie with bronze.

In the boys’ doubles, Keelan and Dillon clinched gold in the under-15 division.

Looking ahead, the Whakatāne Intermediate badminton team are gearing up for the Eastern Bay of Plenty teams competition in August, followed by the Bay of Plenty champs later in the month.

The team are excited to continue their winning streak and make their mark on the regional badminton scene.