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Kia ora koutou!
I was extremely fortunate to become a recipient of the 2007 John Tapiata Memorial Scholarship as a first year Physical Education student at University of Otago. This year I have delved into the ground knowledge of the phys-ed degree including the socio-cultural and biophysical foundations - looking at physical education as an integrative science with the human body and also as a cohering factor in society.
I am currently employed as Co-ordinator at Unipol Recreation Centre where I train and supervise ~35 tertiary student staff; run an exciting aerobics programme and organise recreational events for tertiary students. I am an aerobics instructor myself and have this year gained the credentials to teach cardio, step and pump classes!! My physical education knowledge has helped with preparation for the aspect of aerobics education.
In the winter sport season I umpire netball every Saturday in our local Premier Competition. This year I umpired at the South Island Secondary Schools Championships in Nelson and was chosen to officiate the A Grade Final; I was also selected to officiate at the NZ Netball Age Group Championships in Hamilton and as a reserve umpire at Round One of Scottwood Netball Championships; I was awarded the Achievement Cup for Dunedin Netball Umpiring. I keep busy around my own umpiring by coaching and supporting other budding Otago umpires from beginner to elite levels in training and competition.
I completed a Bachelor of Science (major in Pharmacology) last year and wasn't completely satisfied with that area of science; I have participated in Sport for as long as I can remember and simply love every aspect of it. My decision to begin a Bachelor of Physical Education is one I will not regret and I cannot wait for the next few years of study. My interests are in Exercise Science and Prescription where my future aspirations include: increasing skill acquisition in young netball players; motor efficiency in netball umpires and clinical exercise rehabilitation. This scholarship has not only provided recovery to costs incurred for my studies but also as extra motivation to pursue my dreams in Physical Education. Not only does it empower me as a student but also my mana and place in Māori Society. My advice: love your mahi and you can live your dreams.
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