NAE Global Games: A Recap of the MET Jaguar’s Experience in Orlando, Florida

Sports have the power to push us further than we ever imagined. Once again, the MET 8th and 9th grade students took part in the Nord Anglia Global Games. This is a three-day event packed with competitions and activities to teach students the meaning of teamwork whilst playing against other teams from sister schools from across the Americas.

Nord Anglia Education schools across the Americas competed in a range of sports at Windermere Preparatory School in Orlando, Florida. A record-breaking 44 MET Jaguars embarked on this journey, competing in flag football, track, swimming, volleyball, and more.

This five-day trip brought together an impressive 1,250 students, aged between 12-14 years, from across 19 schools in The Americas to work together, make new friends and inspire each other to explore their potential.

The journey was not just about competition and victories; it was also about fostering a sense of sportsmanship and creating memorable experiences. The trip allowed students to explore new heights, try different activities, and forge connections with peers from different cultures.

MET student – Luke B. from Grade 7 said “Some of the things that I liked about the trip were the sports and the activities that we did after. It was a great time to enjoy those activities with our friends and with the new people we met there. I also really enjoyed going to the amusement parks with friends because you normally don’t get the opportunity to go those types of places with so many of your friends.”

MET Jaguars achieved remarkable success in various sporting events. Notable accomplishments included:
- 2nd Place in the 200-freestyle swimming relay
- 3rd Place in the 200-medley swimming relay
- 3rd Place in the 200-meter track relay
- 3rd Place in the boy's silver division soccer
- 4th Place in the girl's gold division soccer

While medals and trophies certainly added a touch to the trip, the real victories were in the sportsmanship displayed, the unique experiences gained, and the formation of lasting bonds and friendships. Some MET students shared with us some of their thoughts on this unique experience:

“I loved playing all of the sports and to meet people from all over the world!”
Penelope R. - Grade 8 student

“It was one of the best experiences and one of the best trips I’ve ever been to!”
Isabella P. - Grade 8 student

Even one of the chaperones, Mr. McKevett shared his thoughts on this amazing competition: "The days are jam packed with activities, but it felt like this just gave students more opportunities to grow and try more things! The growth in just a few days was amazing; from trying new things to pushing themselves to new heights it was great to see."

In addition to the sports competitions, the 5-day trip offered unique leisure experiences. Students truly enjoyed their free time in the on-campus Olympic Village, SeaWorld, the park’s Wild Artic Exhibit and unlimited rides on the Ice Breaker and brand-new Pipeline roller coasters, Islands of Adventure where they enjoyed Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™, and the amazing Jurassic World VelociCoaster -- among many other exciting rides.

Nord Anglia Global Games was more than a sporting event; it was a celebration of growth, camaraderie, and shared experiences. This showcases our commitment to delivering our mission of empowering students to succeed in school and life by providing opportunities for them to build relationships and leadership skills through athletic competition, as well as broaden their understanding of global connectedness and the ways they can make a positive impact in their communities when they play fair and well with others.

Congratulations to all the schools for another successful Global Games! In case you missed the action, click this link to see all the highlights.

Stay tuned for the upcoming Junior Global Games 2024 adventures in March for our 6th graders. The spirit of friendly competition, personal growth, and cultural exploration continues!