At the heart of Ōpōtiki lies a passion for nurturing the next generation, and Tamarau Karepa, the CAYAD (Community Action Youth and Drugs) coordinator, embodies this commitment. In early October, Tamarau approached the sports coordinators at Ōpōtiki College with a heartfelt proposal: to coach the mixed touch rugby team.
Driven by a vision to provide rangatahi (youth) with opportunities to thrive both on and off the field, Tamarau saw touch rugby as more than just a sport. It became a platform to weave together physical training, teamwork, and life skills while addressing critical issues that affect our young people today.
A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing
Over the past three months, Tamarau’s coaching sessions have been about much more than drills and games. Through structured training, the rangatahi have learned not only the intricacies of touch rugby but also valuable lessons about resilience, respect, and connection. Tamarau uses the sessions as a vehicle to deliver education on the harmful effects of vaping, drugs, and alcohol, challenges that many rangatahi face in today’s world.
“Providing support to our rangatahi is the goal,” says Tamarau, “but being able to deliver it in a holistic approach means I’ve been able to connect deeper with our youth”
By integrating health education with physical activity, Tamarau nurtures an environment where rangatahi can grow, both as athletes and as individuals. This holistic model not only enhances their skills on the field but also instills values and knowledge that will serve them for a lifetime.
Building a Brighter Future
The impact of Tamarau’s work extends far beyond the touch field. By promoting wellbeing through sport, he empowers rangatahi to make informed decisions, build positive habits, and support one another. His approach reflects the essence of whanaungatanga (connectedness), strengthening the bonds within the team and the wider community.
Whakaatu Whanaunga Trusts dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment is an inspiring reminder of how sports can be a powerful tool for change. With every practice, game, and kōrero, this kaupapa is shaping future leaders who understand the importance of teamwork, self-discipline, and making choices that uplift their wellbeing and that of their whānau.
A Model for Other Communities
Tamarau Karepa’s journey with the Ōpōtiki College mixed touch team serves as a blueprint for communities across Aotearoa. By aligning a passion for sport with a commitment to holistic wellbeing, we can support our rangatahi to grow into strong, capable, and connected individuals who will lead the way for generations to come.
Mā te mahi tahi, ka ora ai te iwi - through working together, the people will thrive.
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