Wheel Blacks Paralympic Qualifier Tournament - Day Eight

Day 8: A Test of Resilience 🏉
Day eight brought forth a whirlwind of emotions and challenges as we embarked on our first game in the Paralympic Qualifier tournament against the Netherlands.
The day commenced with a visit to the gym, where I sought solace in physical exertion to calm my nerves ahead of the crucial match. After breakfast, our video session took on a different tone as we sought to ignite motivation and excitement by reliving some of our team's standout moments from the past year—a reminder of our collective strength and resilience.
Following lunch, we prepared meticulously, strapping up in our rugby chairs and engaging in a focused warm-up session. The anticipation mounted as we stepped onto the court, the energy palpable as we prepared to showcase our hard work and dedication.
The moment arrived for the unveiling of our new version of the Haka, a source of both pride and nervousness for me personally. As the ritual concluded, I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride, knowing the effort and passion poured into its creation.
However, the game proved to be a formidable challenge. Despite a tight first quarter, the Netherlands' formidable defence caught us off guard, and we found ourselves trailing at halftime. Our processes faltered, and the game slipped from our grasp, resulting in a disappointing loss.
The atmosphere was sombre as we faced the reality of defeat. Acknowledging the disappointment, I allowed space for everyone to process their emotions, recognizing the importance of embracing vulnerability in moments of defeat, this is an important part of the culture I nurture in this team.
Tomorrow presents an opportunity to regroup, refocus, and rise to the challenge as we prepare to face Brazil—a crucial game where victory is imperative.
As we turn our attention to recovery and dinner, tomorrow is a new day—a chance to bounce back stronger than ever before.
Stay tuned as we continue to navigate the highs and lows of competition with unwavering determination and resilience.