Champions

Stratford has some amazing young people who are excelling in their sports and interests.
Ashley Rupapera is the golden girl and at aged 15 she looks to have a bright future in swimming, Her Mountain Motors Flyers teammates Brock Wilson, Jackson Arlidge and Rebecca Johnston are proving themselves to be powerful in the pool.
They also have bright futures in the pool.
The Step 'N Out hip hop crew are another Stratford group which has excelled with their win against stiff competition in Wellington.
Early mornings and evening trainings, discipline and sacrifices while everyone is out having a social time, are what makes a champion.
Commitment to succeed underscores the pursuit of excellence.
Parents are the backbone to these aspiring athletes and performers who ensure they're fed and clothed and transported to their practices on time.
The costs involved in buying uniforms and other necessary clothing as well as the time it takes to fundraise are all part of the unseen commitment.
We know teenagers enjoy their sleep, but that inner drive is what gets them up when they'd rather be sleeping.
They're also growing years with developmental changes as these young people juggle studies with their extra-curricular commitments.
The socialisation with their peers and through their pursuits is a necessary component in their drive and commitment, which contributes to well-rounded healthy adjusted teenagers.
As parents we all want out children to be safe, healthy and happy.
Striving for excellence, whether they win or lose, sets them on the path to manage their lives and make choices that will steer them in the direction of more personal successes, however big or small.
In time our children move out of the nest, and for some parents this can be difficult.
Their friendships are no longer under the discerning eye of the parent, but even more difficult are the temptations that are on offer in the wider world.
Trust and open communication, and allowing our children to discover within the boundaries set during their formative years, will guide them as they step out on their personal quest of discovery.