Paralympics

This term, Mrs. Mantzanidis asked our class, 8F, as part of our curriculum, to write letters to the Paralympians competing in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

We got to choose a Paralympian who inspired us to write our letter to.  In our letters, we included things like: why we chose them, what sport we play, and things that are happening in Australia since they are away.  This gives us the chance to practice and develop new skills for writing letters and gets us involved in global and community events.  This task also makes us aware of what is happening in the world.

We wish all athletes competing in the Paralympic Games the best of luck!

We were able to tell them how proud we are that they’re representing our country in their sport and their attempt at gold!

We sent these letters off on the 29th of August 2016 to support and encourage them!

By Mackensy Tait and Katerina Andonopoulos  8F

Letter to Paralympians

Dear Angie,

My name is Katerina Andonopoulos and I’m 14 years of age currently attending Wantirna Secondary College – Year 8. I enjoy school but enjoy my sports more.  

Our teacher Mrs. Mantzanidis  has encouraged us and has given us an opportunity to write a little letter to the athletes competing at the Rio Paralympics 2016.

Reading your biography, I understand that you’re a paraplegic. I think you’re an inspiration to all. Winning your 1st individual medal at the 2004 Paralympic games in Athens and winning gold in the 100m at the 2002 world championships is AMAZING! You should be proud of yourself.

I chose you as my best Paralympic Athlete because I feel we have something in common. I play domestic and rep netball. I have been playing since the age of 7 and love the sport. I have been scouted to trial for the Victorian State Netball Team for 2017.

Although I am still developing and learning different skills in defence and attack, I feel I am still lacking something and would like some direction from an athlete such as you.

I would like to ask you what motivated you and inspired you to be where you are today. You’re an inspiration to all athletes and I would like some direction from a champion such as yourself.

How many hours a day are you training to achieve your goal? Are there times where you believe you have given all you’ve got and have nothing more to give? Do you have your own personal trainer and if so, does he or she put you on a strict diet prior to the Paralympic games? I have so many questions I would like to ask you but I also understand that most of your time is continuous training therefore I will keep it brief.

I train Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays and play games on Thursday nights and Saturday afternoons but I still feel I’m lacking speed and drive. Can you give me your personal expertise on what you believe I should be focusing on and how to improve my endurance? I sometimes feel under pressure and feel I am not capable of giving anymore; is this something you have felt while training or trying to achieve your personal best.

I would however like to wish you the best of luck at the Rio Paralympic Games from 7th September-18th September. I will definitely be cheering you on and supporting you all the way.

Give it your all and whatever you place believe in yourself that you are still number one and hold your head up high telling yourself that you will be back in 4 years.

Best Wishes

Katerina (Kat) Andonopoulos