Rex Morpeth Park came alive with flying discs last week as eight the Bay of Plenty secondary schools gathered for a spirited contest of ultimate frisbee.

With the National Secondary Schools Ultimate Championships set to take place in Taupō later this month, teams were eager to sharpen their skills and assess potential competition.

Sixteen teams took the field, representing Whakatāne High School, Trident High School, Rangitaiki College, Mount Maunganui College, Papamoa College, Otumoetai College, Katikati College and Te Puke High School, ensuring fierce competition throughout the day.

Whakatāne High School entered five teams – three boys’ and two girls’ – and enjoyed strong results.

The Boys’ A team secured second place, as did the school’s Girls Gold squad.

Sports coordinator Renske Forsyth was pleased with the school’s results.

“Our teams demonstrated some great skills, awesome teamwork and played within the spirit of the game. Our two top teams will be heading to the national championships,” said Forsyth.

Trident High School fielded one senior team this year, led by head boy Traize Jobe. It was the team’s first outing in a competition of this scale, but they quickly adapted to the pace and skill level, acquitting themselves well, to the delight of Trident sports co-ordinator Steph Walker.

“The team took a bit of time to get used to the games but had a lot of fun. It was a great experience. However, most of the boys will be leaving next year, and we don’t currently have the staffing to manage a team long term,” said Walker.