Wheel Blacks Paralympic Qualifier Tournament - Day Two

Day 2: Embracing Culture and Challenges 🏉
Day two of our journey in Wellington was filled with enriching experiences, challenges, and camaraderie as we continued to prepare for the Paralympic qualifier tournament.
The day kicked off early for me, as I hit the gym at 6am, prioritizing my health and well-being—a crucial aspect of leading this incredible team. Following a tough workout, we gathered for a team breakfast at 8, fueling ourselves for the day ahead.
At 9am, we were privileged to host Jason and Trish, esteemed leaders in their respective Iwi, who shared profound insights into cultural belonging and its significance within our team. Their wisdom, particularly regarding the Haka, resonated deeply with us, reinforcing our sense of identity and unity.
Left inspired, the team had some free time until the afternoon.
Meanwhile, I took the opportunity to visit the NZCIS, our tournament venue, to ensure accessibility for all our players. Despite encountering various challenges, the remarkable staff at the New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport worked tirelessly to address our concerns, exemplifying their commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
As the afternoon approached, we embarked on a unique team-building activity: axe throwing Sweet Axe Throwing! Laughter and friendly competition filled the air as we honed our skills and embraced the thrill of the challenge. Congratulations to Greg, Dan, Maia, (and myself ;) ) for making it to the finals, with Maia emerging victorious by a mere point—truly a testament to our team's competitive spirit.
The day concluded with a delightful team dinner at Shed 22, providing a final opportunity for relaxation and bonding before transitioning into tournament mode.
Stay tuned as we gear up for the battles ahead, fortified by the strength of our team and the richness of our cultural heritage.