St John youth cadets compete for titles
Cadets from three regions contested St John titles on Saturday with the Central Region team winning three of the five awards.
St John youth cadets tested their leadership and first aid skills in the Hamilton Gardens on Saturday in the organisation’s annual competition.
Ten teams with cadets ranging from 13 to 17 years of age had a full day of competitions on Saturday and that night enjoyed a social and prize giving.
Despite the combination of rain and sunshine, fluorescent clad cadets were situated throughout the gardens during the tests.
Hamilton cadet, Andrew Hallberg, 15, competed for the individual title this year and completed seven tests overall.
For the past 11 years Andrew has been involved with St John Youth after his parents recommended it to him as sports were not really his thing.
“I went along and loved it and here I am 11 years later. I have learnt lots of good skills and lots of good friends. It’s an awesome way to meet new people and a cool way of living life,” he said.
When it comes to looking at his future and possible career choices Andrew said that St John may be on the cards.
“It’s definitely one of my options, but I’m still young so it might be one of the paths I may or may not follow.”
Andrew was proud to be selected for his region, with as many as 100 or more cadets applying for the 12 positions available in any of the three regions.
Regional Community Programmes Manager Jen Richardson said the cadets were tested on a variety of disciplines including drill, clinical tests, communication and leadership skills.
St John Youth was about providing positive opportunities to young people where they could be themselves and grow in a safe environment, Mrs Richardson said.
”It’s not only a competition, it’s also about making new friends, developing social skills, confidence and self esteem. Just all of the good things young people need in their lives to develop into good citizens.”
The organisation is reliant on the support and time from the volunteers who turn up for events such as this to help it all run smoothly.
“I am proud every day to belong to an organisation with such incredible people who do such incredible things and all for the good of others. We often refer to our St John people as our St John whanau,” she said.
Results: Champion Individual: Jim Fan (Northern Region); runner-up Champion Individual: Narika Hunter (Central Region). Champion Team Leader: Evelyn Wills (Central Region); Champion Team: Southern Region; overall Champion Region: Central Region.
