While the medals, trophies and championship banners reflect Drasa Avenue Primary School’s dominance in the pool, team captain and deputy head girl Samoana Powell believes their success was built long before race day.
Standing before fellow students, officials and supporters, Powell delivered an emotional speech that paid tribute to everyone who helped the girls secure a fourth consecutive National Schools Swimming Championship title.
Rather than focusing on personal achievements, the young leader chose to shine the spotlight on the people behind the success.
“First and foremost, we give all glory and praise to God for blessing us with the strength, determination and endurance to swim our very best throughout the season,” she said.
She recalled the sacrifices made by the team during months of preparation, from early morning training sessions to the countless laps completed when exhaustion threatened to take over.
“There were times we honestly wondered if Coach was preparing us for the Olympics.
Powell praised praise for head coach Salaseini Lele, crediting her unwavering belief and demanding training sessions for helping transform the swimmers into champions.
“Looking back now, we realise every lap, every drill and every early morning training session was worth it.”
She also acknowledged the many people who worked quietly behind the scenes, including volunteers, team supporters, school management, teachers and donors who ensured the swimmers had everything they needed throughout the season.
For Powell, the biggest appreciation belonged to the parents and guardians.
She thanked them for waking before sunrise, ensuring swimmers reached training by 6am with their gear packed and for cheering loudly from the stands during competitions.
“Whether we won, lost or swallowed half the pool water, you were always there supporting us,” she said.
Powell also recognised sponsors whose generosity helped ease the financial burden of competing.
She thanked the school’s head, Master Sharma, for his leadership and encouragement, saying his presence at the National Schools Swimming Championship boosted the team’s confidence.
The captain also paid tribute to her teammates, describing them as her second family.
Her heartfelt speech reflected the values synonymous with the Super Dolphers programme: faith, discipline, teamwork and gratitude.
As the school celebrated another historic championship, Powell reminded everyone that while medals are won in the pool, true champions are shaped by the people who stand beside them every step of the journey.
