By Louis Johnston

An inspirational coach has helped transform netballers into rugby players, to bring Kaitaia Intermediate students to New Zealand’s biggest sporting event.

It’s the first time the school has brought a girls' rugby sevens side to the Zespri AIMS Games in Tauranga. 

This year, the annual tournament has pulled in more than 14,000 intermediate-age athletes from 431 schools from as far afield as Southland and the Pacific Islands.

Coach Skarn Hokia was quick to credit others for the team’s achievements at the week-long competition. 

“Some of the girls hadn’t played rugby before,” Skarn says.

“But through the support of the school and the parents, the kids themselves have helped one another to get here.”

However, it was the coach who picked up a ‘Positive Vibes Only Champion Award’ at the games this week. The trophy celebrates parents, coaches, players and supporters who promote positive experiences for participants.

A team parent said the coach, who has led the team since March, played a major role in getting the girls to AIMS.

“The majority of the team are new players,” says player mum Brady Robson.

“It’s a big change from netball to tackling. Him (Skarn) encouraging and teaching them has helped them to come out of their shell a bit and take on a totally different sport.”

“I’m just proud to be part of the school,” Skarn says.

“We’re very proud of our girls and how far they’ve come.”

Article added: Friday 05 September 2025