Sport

Trinity Schools Sports Code of Conduct Trinity Schools Sports Player Trial and Selection Process Trinity Schools Sports Dispute and Complaints Procedure Trinity Schools Sports Strategy and Framework Trinity Schools Sports Summary Report

Sport at St Matthew’s

Sport is about far more than wins, losses, or results on a scoreboard. It is a powerful vehicle for growth, helping young women develop the confidence, resilience, and determination they need to thrive in every aspect of life.

The lessons learned through sport extend well beyond the playing field. When students challenge themselves in competition, they learn to embrace challenges in the classroom. They discover the value of perseverance, self-discipline, commitment, and hard work, qualities that underpin success in both learning and life.

Sport teaches our girls to be courageous in the face of setbacks and gracious in moments of success. They learn that winning and losing are both temporary, but character, resilience, and integrity endure. Like the athletes they admire, they learn to stay focused, keep striving, and continue giving their best, even when the outcome is uncertain.

Just as importantly, sport fosters connection and belonging. Through shared experiences, students learn to work as part of a team, support one another, celebrate achievements, and overcome challenges together. These experiences build friendships, leadership skills, and a sense of community that lasts long after the final whistle.

At St Matthew’s, we believe every girl can benefit from sport, regardless of her experience or ability. Whether competing at a high level or participating for enjoyment, every student is encouraged to discover her strengths, challenge herself, and take pride in doing her personal best.

Supported by excellent facilities and a strong culture of participation, our students are inspired to grow in confidence, develop lifelong healthy habits, and embrace every opportunity to shine.

A Place to Belong. A Place to Grow. A Place to Shine. Sport is one of the many ways our girls do exactly that.

St Matthew’s Collegiate Sport

Sport is an important part of life at St Matthew’s Collegiate, and all students are expected to participate in at least one sport each year. Students may choose either:

A summer sport (Terms 1 and 4), or
A winter sport (Terms 2 and 3).

Some sports, such as Equestrian, operate across multiple seasons. Students are expected to commit fully to their chosen sport, including attending all trainings and games throughout the season. Those who wish to participate in additional sports are welcome to do so, provided they can honour all commitments.

Sport Registration

Students must register their chosen sport by the end of Week 1, Term 1. Early registrations allow sufficient time for team organisation, trials, coach recruitment, and competition planning.

Students and families are encouraged to carefully consider their commitment before registering. If a student does not register by the deadline, or later changes their chosen sport, the Sport Department may allocate them to a team where participation is required.

Once teams have been announced, students and parents will have one week to notify the Sport Department of any withdrawals before registration fees are charged. Further information about team selections and deadlines will be communicated at the appropriate time.

Summer Sports (Terms 1 & 4)

Please note: The sports listed below are those generally offered at St Matthew’s Collegiate. Availability may vary from year to year and is dependent on student interest, registrations, competition availability, and sufficient numbers to form teams.

Term 1: Sports generally begin in February
Term 4: Sports generally begin in October

Cricket
Clay Target Shooting (Years 9–13)
Cycling (Years 9–13)
Equestrian
Running Group
Swimming Group
Tennis
Touch Rugby
Volleyball
Summer Sport Fun (social/in-house)
Sport Officiating (e.g. cricket umpiring, scorekeeping, touch rugby refereeing)

Winter Sports (Terms 2 & 3)

Season: Generally runs from May to August

Badminton
Basketball
Clay Target Shooting
Cycling
Equestrian
Football
Hockey
Netball
Rifle Shooting
Squash
Sport Officiating (e.g. netball umpiring, football, basketball or hockey refereeing)

If none of the available sports appeal to you, or if participation presents challenges, please contact the Sport Department as soon as possible. We will work with you to find an alternative solution that meets your needs.

Sport Officiating Opportunities

Students interested in officiating can gain valuable training and practical experience within their chosen sport. This initiative supports the development of future officials and helps address the growing shortage of referees and umpires across many sporting codes.

Students who choose this pathway will:

Attend regular training sessions.
Gain practical officiating experience at school and regional fixtures.
Be mentored by an experienced official within their chosen sport.

Officiating is a fantastic opportunity to develop leadership, confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of sport.

Coaching, Managing and Volunteering

Our sports programme relies on the support of volunteers. We are always looking for assistance with coaching, managing teams, officiating, and helping at events.

Whether you have extensive sporting experience or simply want to support our students, we would love to hear from you. Any contribution is greatly appreciated.

To get involved, please email: sport@stmatts.school.nz

Sports Alerts and Updates

All sports notices, cancellations, draws, and important updates are communicated through the St Matthew’s Collegiate School App.

To ensure you receive important information, please make sure both you and your daughter have the app installed and notifications enabled.

New Opportunities

We are always interested in expanding our sporting programme. If you have expertise in a sport or activity that you believe would benefit our students, please get in touch. We welcome new ideas and opportunities that enrich the sporting experience at St Matthew’s Collegiate.

“

The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s determination.
Kiri Gill, Principal