OLYMPIC SPIRIT IGNITES AT ODA CENTRAL
A WEEK OF UNFORGETTABLE FUN
What happens when you introduce the Olympics to a
Group of eager kids at ODA Central?
Magic!
Winners were definitely Grinners – if fact everyone laughed happily the whole time.
The excitement began with a simple idea shared with teachers Sanchhay, MySung and Sok Vun. From there, it grew into a week of unforgettable experiences, fuelled by creativity and enthusiasm.
They had never heard of Olympics before but after a quick intro to it, our IT maestro Trai Van played highlights from the Opening Ceremony, sparking curiosity and setting the stage. The kids brainstormed a list of events, their imaginations running wild as they planned their own ODA Olympics.
Crafting Olympic torches from coloured paper around water bottles became an art project, with even the youngest students joining in. Then on to the important task of making Olympic Medals.. We put competing country names in a box and each student lucky dipped for the country they would be representing. The kids then meticulously decorated their torches and proudly added their country flags, teaching themselves about global diversity in the process.
No sweeping for a few days as we pinched the broomsticks to hold the flag
Inventive teacher Sanchhay came up with this great idea of how to make medals, and the students made zillions!!! They sure were planning for a successful ODA Olympics
The games kicked off with track events held on the rugged dirt road beside the school. Even in the blistering 35-degree heat, the kids ran barefoot, determined to give it their all. Meta, the smallest girl, stunned everyone with her speed, winning the big girls' race (after being granted too big a start obviously), while a little boy, running in his own heat, earned his gold medal too. The energy and sportsmanship were heartwarming across the kids as they competed and enjoyed watching and cheering on each other. If giggles were counted they would all have won GOLD!!!
As the competition heated up, the students excelled in long jump, high jump, volleyball, and football, showcasing their growing athletic skills. The volleyball match, played with a makeshift string tied to either side fence and a net of rubber bands, had everyone laughing as the ball rarely made it over the string, but the fun never stopped.
ODA Overall Olympic Country Winners were
1st China Manith
2nd Mexico Sahar
3rd Canada Sok Lek
The week culminated in a joyous medal ceremony, followed by a festive closing party. The students feasted on Khmer chicken curry and duck sour curry soup, all made with ingredients from the ODA organic farm. Trai Van’s video montage of the week’s events had everyone in stitches, especially with laughing at their less successful attempts.
Watch the kids in Olympic action. Undaunted by the 35 degrees heat – they took it in their stride and gave their all!!! and they thought watching his video clips were as much fun as the competing. Giggling at all their mishaps, false starts, tumbles – you name it - it happened here at ODA!!!
But the excitement didn’t end there! Despite internet issues, the kids enjoyed watching some of the Paris Closing Ceremony and then their own Closing Ceremony dance party, showing off their moves to the delight of everyone. It was a perfect ending to a week filled with learning, laughter, and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Special mention must go to teacher Sanchhay and IT teacher Trai Van – GOLD both of them for their huge time and effort input.
The ODA Olympics were more than just games—they were a celebration of spirit, creativity, and the incredible potential of these wonderful children. Their enthusiasm and joy remind us why we do what we do to help them improve their lives. This was a week they’ll never forget, and neither will we!
Thanks Leng and Sry On for guiding these lovely children so well over their early lives. They are encouraged to be respectful, study hard but also have a good sense of fun together. A joy to work with and be around.
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