Storming the Courts

Storming the Courts

Paris Lokotui is one to watch after being selected for the 2016 U16 New Zealand Development Basketball Team (Korus).

At only 13 years of age and the only player from Wellington City, the selection is particularly significant for the Queen Margaret College student, who is excited to be representing New Zealand.

“I have never represented New Zealand in sport before so I am really looking forward it,” Paris comments.

“It will be a great opportunity to improve my game and play against top teams.”

The team is scheduled to compete in the 2016 Australian Country Cup in January 2016.

“I will be spending my school holidays training and improving my fitness to play at my best,” Paris says.

This up-and-coming sportswomen has already had an extremely successful year in sport

This year Paris was selected for the 2015 U15 Wellington Girls Rep Basketball team and the U15 Wellington Rep Netball team, the first time she has been eligible to trial for both teams.

“Being able to represent Wellington has been such a pleasure,” Paris says.

“I’m so motivated and inspired by the amazing talent around me.”

Her skill on the court has not gone unnoticed as she was selected to attend the Basketball New Zealand National Talent Development Camp last August after her performance at the U15 Basketball Nationals.

Her sporting talent is not just reserved for the court.

Paris also made the New Zealand U15 Waterpolo Squad this year but had to make herself unavailable as the tour clashed with Netball Nationals.

Not to mention she was invited to train with the U19 New Zealand Handball team this year.

Paris has enjoyed playing sport since she was a little girl, playing team sports from Year 3.

“It runs through my family. We all support one another,” she explains.

“I love being part of a team, encouraging others and playing in a competitive environment.”

Paris plays six sports at Queen Margaret College, three of which are Senior A teams: Netball, Waterpolo and Basketball.

“I’ve managed to make it work so that I don’t have to choose one of them yet,” Paris comments.

“I know many girls that represent New Zealand in multiple sports and I want to aim to do the same thing for Queen Margaret College.”

Paris is grateful to have had some inspiring coaches and a supportive family network that push her to be the best she can be.

ENDS

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