On June 8th, the Stallion athletes gathered in the Harmony Theatre after school, to celebrate the sports accomplishments from 2025 to 2026. Athletes from both boys and girls teams, ranging from U14 to U20, along with coaches, came together to reflect on a year defined by teamwork, dedication and growth. While this banquet served as a tradition for recognition of student athletes, attendees also enjoyed pizza and beverages. To many players’ surprise, every athlete received a gift from the school for this year.
At 3 p.m., as students finished their last period of class, student athletes and coaches gathered in the Harmony Theatre. The Harmony Theatre has already been set with tables and chairs, creating an exciting atmosphere for celebration.
As student-athletes took their seats according to their age groups and gender, they enjoyed pizza and drinks while socializing with teammates. Once everyone had settled in, Ms. Maddie and Mr. Rodel officially opened the banquet with a welcome speech, congratulating athletes on their accomplishments throughout the year.
Later on, it’s time for each team to step on the stage for their moments of highlight – the awarding section. Every player in each team received a certificate of participation. Most importantly, three players in each team were awarded with the MVP, MIP and Stallions trophy.
One of the awards students look forward to the most is the MVP (Most Valuable Player) Award, which recognizes one athlete in each team whose performance had the greatest impact on their teams. Winning the MVP Award does not only indicate outstanding athletic ability, but also reflects a player’s positive influence on and off the court.
MIP (Most Improved Player) Awards were also given to students who showed significant improvement in sport skills. While the MVP Award highlights excellence, the MIP Award celebrates progress.
In addition, the Stallions Award valued athletes who best demonstrated the sportsmanship of the Stallions. Athletes often showed support and encouragement toward their teammates.
Throughout the year, coaches played a crucial role in the success of teams. Behind every game were coaches who dedicated their time and energy.
When the U16 girls tried their best at UCIS and PTIS, the athletic director Ms. Maddie said, “I just watched them fight and they brought the team spirit up. It was incredible to watch. Their team became so strong together.” Even though it’s Ms. Maddie’s first year at NIS, “The seniors had the best energy and excitement.”
For many athletes, the season was about more than wins and losses. Seah Min from Grade 10 shared how she overcame challenges both physically and mentally throughout the year.
Although the team struggled with results, Seah remained motivated by her love for football and the opportunity to play with her friends. She also shared a simple message for younger athletes:
“It’s okay if you lose. Sometimes you’ll win, sometimes you’ll lose.”
What made this year’s banquet unique was that this was the first time the school had hosted a banquet that brought together athletes from all three seasons.
“Normally, we do it just at the end of each season,” as the school principal Mr. Ben said. “This is something our new athletic director, Ms. Maddie, wanted to bring to the table, and I fully support it.”
“Playing sports is one of the highlights of your school career, and I hope that all students do it, regardless of their skill level.” Mr. Ben also says.
For the future, Mr. Ben hoped more students would participate in girls’ sports. For improving the students’ athletic developments, Mr. Ben also shared that the gym will be going through renovations with a new air conditioning system during this summer break.
