AIMS GAMES 2026
5 - 11 September 2026
Each year, athletes from around the country compete at the AIMS Games, held in Tauranga Moana. In 2026, more than 14,000 competitors from 430+ schools will participate across 27 sports.
This year, we have athletes representing Ross Intermediate in Boys Futsal and Rippa Rugby (team events) as well as those competing in Golf, Gymnastics, BMX, Mt Biking [Enduro and X country] and Swimming (individual events).
Excited to be supporting our teams to excel at this event are our outstanding coaches and Managers. Boys Futsal with Marko De Vries (coach) and Mark Pinny (Manager). Rippa Rugby with Grant Marshall (Coach) and Jaime Court ( Manager). A huge thank you goes to these incredible people.
SPONSORS
A huge thank you goes out to our sponsors - without whom our teams wouldn't be able to attend the AIMS Games. Ngā mihi nui!
Introducing the first of our major sponsors:
Advanced Accounting
https://advancedaccounting.co.nz/
This is the second year they have generously supported our students in taking up this incredible opportunity.
our second major sponsor is:
Pinny & Associates Chartered Accountants
https://www.pinnyandassociates.co.nz/
our next sponsor is:
New Zealand Community Trust
https://www.nzct.org.nz/
We also give thanks to AGS Kitchens Limited for their support!
NEWS & UPDATES
Updates about the journey to AIMS will be posted here. Check back as we close in on the date!
AIMS Games 2026 – What a Campaign!
As our Ross Intermediate AIMS Games 2026 campaign comes to an end, we can look back on an incredible week filled with achievement, challenge, growth, friendship and memories that will last a lifetime.
Our Ross athletes have represented our school with immense pride, showing determination, resilience, sportsmanship and a willingness to give their very best. From the futsal court and Rippa field to BMX, swimming, gymnastics, golf and mountain biking, our athletes have taken on some of the best intermediate-aged competitors in the country and embraced every opportunity that AIMS Games provided.
There have been some outstanding results along the way, including our Ross Futsal team finishing 4th in New Zealand, an incredible achievement that reflects the skill, commitment and hard work of the players. But while the results are something to celebrate, AIMS Games is about so much more than where you finish. It is about stepping outside your comfort zone, representing your school, supporting your teammates, meeting new people, experiencing new challenges and creating memories together.
A huge thank you to our coaches and managers who gave up their time, energy and expertise to support our athletes throughout the campaign. Your commitment, encouragement and belief in our students has made a huge difference. We also extend our thanks to the many parents, whānau and supporters who travelled, cheered from the sidelines, helped behind the scenes and supported our teams throughout the week.
AIMS Games simply would not be possible without the incredible support of our wider Ross community.
Most importantly, we want our athletes to know just how proud we are of every one of you. You have represented Ross Intermediate with pride, shown great sportsmanship and made the most of every opportunity. The friendships made, challenges overcome, celebrations shared and memories created will be something you can look back on for years to come.
Congratulations, Ross!
What an incredible campaign. What an incredible group of young people. And what an incredible week of memories.
Be proud of what you have achieved, proud of how you have represented Ross, and proud of the memories you have created together.
Until AIMS 2027… go Ross!
Day Six of Competition | 10 September
Day 6 of AIMS Games marked the final day of competition for our Ross athletes, with our Rippa team and Sam Vaga competing in MTB Enduro.
Rippa
After a fantastic week of competition, our Rippa team moved into the 17th–24th placing section, knowing they had three tough games ahead of them to finish their AIMS campaign.
They started the morning with a 5–3 loss, but showed great fight in the second half, putting plenty of pressure on the opposition and never giving up. Next up was a local battle against our neighbours from Ashhurst. It was always going to be a hard-fought game, and the Ross team battled strongly, making Ashhurst work hard for their 3–2 win.
Their final game of the tournament was played in wet conditions. Things didn't always go our way, but the team continued to work hard and showed great determination right until the final whistle, eventually going down 3–1.
To finish 24th out of 99 teams is an amazing achievement and one every player should be incredibly proud of. The team showed plenty of skill, determination, teamwork and Ross spirit throughout the tournament. What a fantastic way to finish their AIMS campaign!
MTB Enduro
Sam Vaga took on the MTB Enduro this afternoon at the challenging Summerhill course, competing against around 200 riders.
The Summerhill course provides an exciting and demanding mountain-bike challenge through the Pāpāmoa Hills, combining fast-flowing sections with steep climbs, technical descents, tight corners, natural obstacles and jumps. Riders need a strong level of fitness, confidence and excellent bike-handling skills to choose the right lines and maintain speed through each timed stage.
Sam handled the challenge brilliantly, finishing 35th out of around 200 riders. This is a fantastic achievement and a great result in such a competitive field.
Well done, Sam!
Ross Futsal – 4th at AIMS Games 2026!
What an incredible week it has been for our Ross Intermediate Futsal team at the AIMS Games 2026 in Tauranga!
To finish 4th, out of some of the best intermediate school futsal teams in the country, is a huge achievement – and one that our boys should be incredibly proud of.
For Ross Intermediate, this is a huge achievement. To see our boys competing at this level, holding their own against schools from across the country, and finishing amongst the top four is something very special. More importantly, they represented Ross with pride, respect and a fantastic attitude throughout the week.
A huge thank you must go to our incredible coaching team — Mark, Marko and William. Your time, knowledge, encouragement and commitment to the boys has been outstanding. The impact you have had on this team goes well beyond the futsal court, and we are extremely grateful for everything you have done to make this experience so special.
We would also like to thank the families and supporters who got behind the team throughout the week. The support from home and from those who followed the games made a huge difference.
It has been a great week away in Tauranga, filled with competition, challenges, laughter and plenty of proud moments. The boys have created memories they will carry with them for a long time.
Day Five of Competition | 9 September
Day 5 was another busy and exciting day for Ross Intermediate, with our athletes and teams continuing to give their absolute best across a range of events.
Futsal
Our Futsal boys took to the court today for their 3rd and 4th place playoff, and what a game it was. It was a tough, end-to-end battle from the opening whistle, with the intensity high and emotions running strong.
Ross opened the scoring before Pukekohe hit back shortly after to level the game at 1-1 going into halftime. A quick goal after the break put Pukekohe ahead 2-1, but the boys continued to apply pressure and were rewarded with an equaliser.
The game remained incredibly tight, but Pukekohe managed to find a third goal late in the game. The Ross boys left absolutely everything out on the court and continued to push right through to the final whistle, eventually finishing 4th overall.
This is an outstanding achievement for the team, and they can hold their heads extremely high. The heart, determination and commitment they showed in every game throughout the tournament has been exceptional. They played skillful, high-quality Futsal and represented themselves, their families and Ross Intermediate to the highest standard. We are incredibly proud of them.
MTB
Ada Morrison was first up this morning in the Year 7 Girls Cross Country MTB. The course featured steep climbs, tricky corners and plenty of challenges, but Ada attacked the course with confidence and determination.
She was particularly strong on the climbs and put in a fantastic effort to finish 6th overall. An excellent performance from Ada!
Gymnastics
Alex Mathews was competing in Gymnastics Tumbling today, taking on a huge field of 49 competitors. Alex performed brilliantly to finish 7th overall – an outstanding result in a very competitive field. Well done, Alex!
Golf
Our Ross golfer, Zac Tarrant, finished his AIMS Golf campaign today with a round of 85. Another challenging day where, unfortunately, the ball just wouldn't find the hole!
Across three days, Zac has taken on three amazing courses and continued to represent Ross with a great attitude and plenty of determination. Well done, Zac – a fantastic effort across the tournament.
Rippa
It was a tough day for our Rippa team as they entered the Round of 32, with three hard-fought games on the schedule.
The team battled through three real arm wrestles, finishing the day with two draws and one loss. They showed plenty of determination and continued to compete right to the final whistle in every game. The team heads into tomorrow playing for 17-24.
Events Thursday 10th September
-
Sam Vaga MBT Enduro
-
Rippa - 9.40am, 12.30pm, 3.55pm
Day Four of Competition | 8 September
AIMS Futsal - Day Four
Game 8 – Ross vs St Kentigern
Game 8 saw the Ross boys take on St Kentigern in a high-energy game with emotions and passion running high from the first whistle. The boys showed great composure, working hard for each other and playing with confidence and purpose.
Ross were clinical in front of goal, combining skillful play with excellent teamwork to produce a complete team performance. Every player contributed, and the boys continued to lift their intensity as the game progressed.
The final score was Ross 7 – 1 St Kentigern, a fantastic result that sees the boys progress into the Top 4!
The boys now turn their attention to the semi-final on Tuesday night at 7.20pm against Fairfield. We are incredibly proud of the way they have represented Ross throughout the tournament and wish them all the best as they chase a place in the final! ⚽️💙
RIPPA
After a very successful opening day of competition, our Ross Rippa team started Day 2 full of confidence and ready to build on their strong performances.
Their first game was against John Paul, with Kian Buttriunu opening the scoring with a great breakaway try. In the dry conditions, the team was able to move the ball around well, creating plenty of opportunities and finishing with an impressive 11–0 win.
The final pool game was against St Mary’s, and once again the boys produced a solid all-round performance. They continued to move the ball well, defended strongly and finished with a convincing 10–0 victory.
This result saw Ross top their pool convincingly and progress into the Top 32. A fantastic effort from the whole team, who continue to show great attitude, teamwork and determination.
BMX
Day 2 of competition saw Kasey Southee back on the BMX track, putting together some solid performances across his final rides of the competition.
Kasey finished 10th overall, a fantastic achievement in his first AIMS BMX competition. Well done, Kasey!
GOLF
Zac, our Ross golfer, was back out on the course today for Day 2 of competition. It was a tougher course and a tougher day, with Zac shooting a round of 87 to currently sit in 12th place.
He continues to show great determination and is putting in a solid effort as he continues his AIMS Games campaign heading into day 3 tomorrow
Swimming & MTB
Ada Morrison had a great AIMS Swimming company, ending her competition with 8 PBs across 8 events.
She now moves onto her next event, MTB. Skills testing was held today, which qualified her for 5th in the Y7 Girls XCO. Her MTB race is at 9am Wednesday
Futsal Semi Final -
Final score 4-2 unfortunately Ross on the wrong end of it, they played super hard and we are so proud of them!
Wednesday 9th September
MTB - Ada
Golf - Zac
Rippa
- vs Takapuna Normal Intermediate
- vs Belmont
Day Three of Competition | 7 September
AIMS Futsal
Day Three - Round of 32 ⚽
Our final game of the Round of 32 was against Chisnallwood Intermediate — a game we knew we needed to win to secure a slightly easier pathway into tonight’s Pool of 16.
The first half was intense, with both teams working hard to find their rhythm and settle into the game. We went into halftime locked at 1–1, with everything still to play for.
The boys came out firing in the second half, scoring two quick goals to build momentum and confidence. From there, they continued to apply pressure and took control of the game, finishing with a commanding 5–1 victory.
Another fantastic team performance, showing great attitude, composure and determination when it mattered. The boys now head into the Pool of 16 tonight full of confidence! 💪⚽️
Lining up against Napier Intermediate we needed the win to ensure a quarter final spot. Things didn't start well with goalie Louie Boyack injured in the warm up and nerves running high. It was intense and fast paced but Ross scored first, continuing this momentum to end the game with a 7 - 2 win.
AIMS Rippa - Day One
Game 1 – Ross vs Auckland Normal Intermediate
Game one of the Rippa campaign got underway this morning against Auckland Normal Intermediate. With wet conditions making the ball slippery, the team needed to adapt quickly.
The Ross team had a focused warm-up and were locked in and ready to go. A few early nerves saw us concede the first try, but a great breakaway from Kian Butturini settled the team and gave them the confidence to build into the game. Kaylee Court scored the first girl try further bolstering morale.
From there, the team continued to improve, showing great determination and teamwork to take control. A strong first-up performance saw Ross come away with a 4–1 victory.
A great win to get the campaign underway and a positive start for the team! 👏🏉
Game 2 - vs Pyes Pa School saw Ross dominate play from start to finish. Dryer conditions meant the ball moved with pace. The team showed good speed, great agility to run away with the game 15 - 0
Game 3 - vs Paremata School - Still riding the high from 2 wins, the team was well focused and ready to close the day with 3 wins. Showing great team work, with the girls getting on the score sheet it was another across the park dominance winning 10-0. Bring on day 2 11.45am V John Paul College
AIMS BMX
Wet but warm conditions greeted Kasey Southee as he started his BMX campaign today. This is the first time Ross has had a BMX rider competing at AIMS Games, making it an exciting milestone for the school.
All BMX rides are being livestreamed through the AIMS Games website, so be sure to check out Kasey in action!
AIMS Golf
Zac Tarrant tee off for his first round at the Mt course. The rain and wind stayed away and Zac had a great round of 82 - finishing 9th after the first round.
Events Tuesday 8th September:
Futsal - Quarter final @ 12.40pm
Rippa - 11.45am & 3.30pm
Golf - Zac Tarrant Round 2
BMX - Kasey Southee
Day Two of Competition | 6 September
AIMS Futsal – Day Two ⚽
After topping their pool on Day One, our Ross boys crossed over into the Top 32 section of the draw for Day Two.
Our first game was against Wairarapa Cobham Intermediate from Christchurch, and the boys were dominant from the first whistle. Tommy Rudman opened the scoring early, giving the team confidence and setting the tone for the game. The boys continued to build, heading into halftime with a 3–0 lead before finishing with a convincing 10–1 victory.
It was a complete team performance, showcasing precise passing, great teamwork, individual skill and excellent movement off the ball. The boys also showed a great attitude and presence on the court, competing with confidence, composure and purpose from start to finish. Every player contributed to a fantastic result.
Game Two saw the intensity, physicality and speed go up another notch as we faced Katikati. The boys responded brilliantly, producing another high-energy and skilful display of futsal. They went into halftime 3–0 up and continued to control the game in the second half, finishing with a 6–1 win.
Two games, two convincing victories — an outstanding start to Day Two for our Ross boys! 👏⚽🔥
Day 3 @ 9.20am Ross will play their final round of 32, with 2 wins on Day 2 we have secured our position in the top 16.
AIMS Swimming
Ada Morrison has had 2 big days in the pool, Performing personal best times in the 100IM and 100 Free
Events Monday 7th September:
Futsal @ 9.20am
Rippa @ 9.40am
Golf - Zac Tarrant teeing off @ 12.25pm
AIMS Gymnastics Competition | 6 September
Congratulations to Alex Mathews placing 3rd on the Vault in the AIMS gymnastics competition this morning. Amilea Duffy is competing this evening.
Rippa Rugby Departure | 6 September
Our Ross Rippa team departed this morning for Tauranga. We wish then safe travels on their journey to Aims.
FUTSAL AIMS PLAYER CARDS
RIPPA AIMS PLAYER CARDS
Day One of Competition | 5 September
AIMS Futsal
Game One: Ross vs Waimauku School
It was an early start for the Ross boys, with Game One kicking off at 8:00am against Waimauku School. The game was played at a high intensity, with both teams showing plenty of skill and determination.
Jayden De Vries opened the scoring early in the first half, giving Ross a 1–0 lead heading into halftime.
Waimauku came out firing in the second half and quickly found the net to level the score at 1–1. The Ross boys responded by lifting the intensity and creating plenty of opportunities, with numerous shots on goal. Tommy Rudman eventually found the back of the net to put Ross ahead 2–1.
The boys maintained great structure, worked hard for each other, and showed excellent teamwork to secure a 2–1 victory in what was a tough first-up game.
A fantastic start to the tournament! 👏⚽
Game Two: Ross vs Taumata School
Ross recorded a convincing 17–0 win over Taumata School in Game Two. Playing against a less experienced side, the boys controlled the game from the outset and showed great attacking intent.
It was fantastic to see almost every player make their way onto the scoresheet. Louie also had the opportunity to come out of goal and enjoy a run on court, scoring two goals in the process.
The boys continue to build momentum, but the challenge steps up next as we take on Howick. This is expected to be a much tighter contest and a game the team is really looking forward to—and determined to win.
Game 3 – Ross vs Howick
Game three against Howick was an important one, with top spot in our pool up for grabs. The boys were focused from the outset and played with confidence and purpose. They opened the scoring early, with two quick goals following to give Ross a strong 3–0 lead at half-time.
The boys came out firing in the second half, putting the foot down and producing their best performance of the day. Excellent passing, movement and teamwork saw them add another four goals to finish with a convincing 7–0 victory.
A fantastic overall team performance, with every player contributing to a well-deserved result and top spot in the pool secured.
Sunday’s Events Include:
Futsal : Games @ 9.20am and 12.40pm
Swimming: Ada
Gymnastics: Alex Mathews @ 2pm and Ameila Duffy @ 5pm
Rippa Team arrives
JOURNEY TO AIMS GAMES
Our Ross AIMS Futsal team has arrived safely in Tauranga and is ready for an exciting week of competition, with their campaign getting underway early Saturday morning against Waimauku School.
Our Rippa team will depart on Sunday, with their tournament beginning on Monday. We also have a number of individual Ross athletes competing in Swimming and Gymnastics over the weekend.
It’s a busy and exciting time for our athletes, and we are incredibly proud of everyone representing Ross.
We wish all our athletes the very best for the coming week. Show your Ross spirit, give your best, support one another, demonstrate great sportsmanship, and most importantly, enjoy the experience! ~ Go Ross!
GEARING UP FOR AIMS GAMES
AIMS GAMES FITNESS CHALLENGE
Boys Futsal SuperSport Banner Champions | 6 August
Congratulations to our Ross Futsal teams for their achievements in the SuperSport Futsal competition. Both teams played outstandingly and made the final! After an enthusiastic match our Boys' team won the banner, with the girls coming runner up. Well done all!
The Boys' team continue to challenge themselves and hone their teamwork in the lead up to AIMS 2026.
Rippa Team-building | 2 August
Our AIMS Games Rippa Rugby team enjoyed a fantastic team-building day at the Ashhurst Fire Station on Sunday as part of their preparation for AIMS Games.
The day was filled with a variety of team-building activities designed to build confidence, strengthen communication, and bring the team closer together. It was wonderful to see the players stepping outside their comfort zones, supporting one another, and developing stronger connections both on and off the field.
A huge thank you to our coach, manager, and the parents who gave up their time to support the day and help make it such a success. Your commitment and encouragement are greatly appreciated.
The team has come away stronger, more connected, and well prepared for the exciting challenge ahead at AIMS Games. We can't wait to see them represent Ross with pride.
PLAYER PROFILES
Dedication. Drive. Determination.
Athlete Profiles Coming Soon!
Team Details
Position Played
Profiles will include the athletes:
* Favourite Sports Person
* Favourite Sports Moment
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Ada Morrison
Sport: Swimming, Mountain Biking
Event: 50 fly, 100 free, 100 fly, 50 breast, 50 free
* Favourite Sports Moment
Competing in Relays
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience of AIMs Games
Alex Mathews
Sport: Gymnastics
Event: Vault, Bar, Beam, Floor
* Favourite Sportsperson
Amelia Walmsley
* Favourite Sports Moment
Coming first in nationals
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience and completing my goals I have set.
Amelia Duffy
Sport: Gymnastics
Event: Bar, Vault, Beam, Floor
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Having fun and trying to beat the place I got last time.
Ataliyah Ruruku Kauri
Team: Ross Rippa
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience of playing against other schools and meeting new people.
Bella Marshall
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Ardie Savea
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Challenging myself and the experience
Cohen Pinny
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: Fixo/GK
* Favourite Sportsperson
Novak Djokavic
* Favourite Sports Moment
At AIMs 2025 I scored 3 goals from goalkeeper.
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Playing futsal and having a really good experience.
Davi Thum Cardoso
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: Left Wing / Right Wing
* Favourite Sportsperson
Ronaldinho & Neymar Jr
* Favourite Sports Moment
Scoring 9 goals in one game
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Having fun with my friends and winning.
Finn Williams
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Dan Carter
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience of playing other top Rippa teams over the North Island
Flynn Murphy
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: Fixo/ Flanker
* Favourite Sportsperson
Virgil van Dijk
* Favourite Sports Moment
Beating Leo’s team 6-1 in 2025
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Going to my first Futsal tournament.
Isaac Mayo
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Jackson Goldstone
* Favourite Sports Moment
Profiles will include the athletes:
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
To improve my ripper skills.
Isla Butturini
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Christian Cullen
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience, and playing against new schools.
Jaxson Marshall
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Dan Carter
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
I am most looking forward to seeing the atmosphere of aims games and our Rippa team having a good time.
Jayden de Vries
Team Details
Position Played
* Favourite Sportsperson
Cristiano Ronaldo
* Favourite Sports Moment
Scoring in the last minutes of AIMs Games 2025
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Just having the best time and trying to win AIMs.
Joe Linklater
Team: Ross Rippa
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The competitive spirit and team banter.
Kasey Southee
Sport: BMX 12s
* Favourite Sportsperson
Josh Jolly
* Favourite Sports Moment
Making North Island title final.
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Racing and always try to do better each race.
Kaylee Court
Team: Ross Rippa
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience and increasing my skills.
Kian Butturini
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Aaron Smith
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
For the experience and to learn new skills.
Leo Dale
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: Left Wing / Flanker
* Favourite Sportsperson
Cristiano Ronaldo
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Assisting the winning goal to make my club team 3rd place in HB tournament in 2025.
Liam Bearda
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: Flanker / Fixo
* Favourite Sportsperson
Cristiano Ronaldo & Neymar Jr
* Favourite Sports Moment
3rd place at the Napier Tournament '25
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Competing against the best teams in NZ and the experience I will get.
Louie Boyack
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: GK
* Favourite Sportsperson
Morgan Rogers
* Favourite Sports Moment
Winning MVP in Marist Tournament
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Just playing the sport and having Up & Go’s
Melody Machuca
Team: Ross Rippa
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Playing different schools for Rippa
Myles Kelly
Team: Ross Rippa
* Favourite Sportsperson
Dan Carter
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The experience of competing against other top Rippa teams.
Sam Vega
Sport: Mountain Biking
Event: Enduro
* Favourite Sportsperson
Jackson Goldstone
* Favourite Sports Moment
Winning the schools Downhill
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
To improve my MTB skills.
Tommy Rudman
Team: Ross Futsal
Position: Right Wing / Flanker
* Favourite Sportsperson
Lionel Messi & Lamine Yamal
* Favourite Sports Moment
Scoring hat trick first game at AIMs '25
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
The tournament and spending time with my friends.
Zac Tarrant
Sport: Golf
Event: 18 Hole
* Favourite Sportsperson
Rory
* Favourite Sports Moment
Rory back to back masters
* What they are looking forward to most about the AIMS Games
Getting to play golf for a week.