Shining a Light on our Year 7 and 8 Student Stars

By Shaun Haig | Posted: Tuesday July 2, 2024

This is the third article in our series celebrating the achievements of our Year 7 and 8 cohort at Trinity Catholic College.

Sean Racaza (Year 8)

Great to chat Sean

How have you enjoyed sport at Trinity so far? What sports do you play for school? 

Sports have been really good and lots of fun. I've been playing volleyball, touch and basketball.

Outside of school what are your sporting/training commitments?

Basketball with our Filipino community ball, school games, 7&8 Academy and year 9 training.

Sean, you have represented Otago in Basketball. Tell us a little bit about this.

It's been an honor to be part of the BBO (Basketball Otago) community. Great games and training. I always love to compete.

What are some challenges you have faced in sport?

My height is a challenge. I need to train hard especially on my dribbling and fakes. I also work hard at training on my speed. Dad is a great mentor to help my focus.

Sport is very rewarding, what are some of the highlights you have experienced?

I scored 30 points in one game and I was one of the ‘mythical three’ in the Filipino community ball. I've had some memorable MVP performances but it's always been because of great team performances.

Leadership and sportsmanship are very important. If people were to watch Sean Racaza play sport, what skills and attributes would they see?

Never talking bad about players or coaches. I always help others out.

How can students at Trinity show the 4 core school values on the sports field/ court?

Respect everyone you come up against.

Who are your role models and why? What are your sporting goals?

Kyrie Irving-Mavericks, is my favorite player. Really good play-maker and creative at the game. 

I'd love to get to nationals with my basketball team and push for a professional basketball contract.

Favorite pre and post competition foods?

Lollies, chocolate and bananas.

If you could give any advice to students wanting to achieve in their chosen sport(s) what would it be? 

Don't ever give up, keep training really hard.

Zkaria Pasese (Year 8)

Great to chat Zkaria

How have you enjoyed sport at Trinity so far? What sports do you play? 

I've enjoyed it a lot. Its been great playing basketball, touch, netball and volleyball for Trinity.

Outside of school what are your sporting/training commitments?

Basketball Otago commitments and netball training and games.

You have represented Otago in Basketball. Tell us a little bit about this .

We have had squad training and playing matches against year 9 teams. The lead up has been cool with lots of good players.

What are some challenges you have faced in sport Zkaria?

Sometimes it can be hard to maintain confidence. It's important to work with your coaches and set good goals 

Sport can be very rewarding, what are some of the highlights you have experienced?

I've had some great tournaments as an individual and as part of a team. Its satisfying doing well and learning skills off new coaches

Leadership and sportsmanship are very important. If people were to watch Zkaria Pasese play sport, what skills and attributes would they see?

Trying to lead my team mates in the right direction, make sure they know what they are doing. Leading by example.

How can students at Trinity show the 4 core school values on the sports field/ court?

Having really good team work. If things go wrong, do your best to fix it.

Who are your role models and why? What are your sporting goals?

Paige Beuckers - She sets a great example and has lots of followers. She is always very humble.

My goals are to try my hardest to make the highest teams I can.

Favorite pre and post competition foods?

Fruit and protein bars

If you could give any advice to students wanting to achieve in their chosen sport(s) what would it be? 

Have lots of confidence and give it your all. Don't worry about what others think.

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