Williams finds his ultimate fit

Thirteen-year-old Sam Williams found himself on in indoor court at the 2026 Zespri AIMS Games, playing for the Pukekohe Intermediate futsal boys’ team.

I’ve been playing other sports, but Futsal is fun and energetic to play,” Williams said.

The week long tournament for intermediate students attracts as many competitors as the Olympics with more than 23,400 visitors travelling from outside the Bay of Plenty, according to tournament director Kelly Scischka.

Loaded with excitement and energy, Sam, 13 expressed his excitement at participating and representing Pukekohe Intermediate School.

“The best thing about being part of the tournament is getting to have time with my friends having fun playing the sport I love,” he said.

Futsal is really a fun game to play and I love to play along with my friends

William’s side finished their campaign with a top four finish taking out third place.