A group of 14 Form 4 and 5 students from Stella Maris College, Gzira travelled to Switzerland for a week-long Sports Camp between 4 and 11 August.

The group were hosted in a typical Swiss chalet in Leysin, a small village surrounded by the imposing Alps situated in the French-speaking part of Switzerland.

It was a week full of activities as the boys started off their adventure with a football match at the Leysin Sports Centre followed by a session of beachvolley. A night hike between Leysin and Lac de Mayen followed, a task that lasted around three whole hours.

The following day the group enjoyed a relaxing day at the state-of-the-art Aquaparc in Le Bouveret where some of the boys also found the time to enjoy some exhilarating banana rides.

Next on the programme was an official visit to the Olympic Museum in Lausanne where the students could admire the creation and heritage of the Olympic Movement. This was followed by a strenuous bike ride from Lausanne to Chexbres and back.

Back at the Leysin Sports Centre mini-tournaments of basketball, handball, futsal and volleyball were organised as the main highlight of the week arrived on Thursday when the entire group ventured their way to Sion for a unique rafting experience, an activity that was held in waters averaging 4 degrees.

After such a fantastic time, the group travelled to Villeneuve where the boys played bowling and took part in a karting competition at the Fun Planet complex.

The final day started with a treasure hunt around Leysin while later on in the afternoon a mini-golf session was organised. The Camp was brought to an end with two other exciting activities – ice-skating and climbing.

During the week two knock-out competitions – one for table-tennis and one for table soccer – were organised at the group’s chalet. Jairo Caruana ended up winning the table-tennis competition while Chris Xuereb conquered the table soccer title.

Prior to returning to Malta, Benjamin Zammit McKeon was presented with the Pierre de Coubertin Award for his determination, perseverance and helpful attitude during the whole week.

The Sports Camp was organised by the College Physical Education teacher Kevin Azzopardi who was assisted by Manuel Cilia and Lara May Debono. Special thanks also went to Bro. Martin Borg, Director and Mrs. Rose D. Griscti, Head of Senior School.