Nathaniel Atherton, Primary Principal
14 March 2025
Last weekend, I had the privilege of traveling with our Middle School boys basketball team to Prague for a two-day tournament at the International School of Prague. The students competed exceptionally well, winning several games, some by large margins. But beyond their on-court performance, what stood out most was their behaviour off the court—the friendships they formed, the moments they shared, and the experiences they will carry with them for years to come.
One of the most rewarding aspects of these tournaments is watching how players, who arrive as competitors, leave as part of a larger international sporting community. SCIS—now in its second year at our school—has given our students the chance to connect with peers from around the world, fostering a sense of internationalism that extends well beyond the final score.
SCIS: More Than Just Sports
For those unfamiliar with SCIS (Sports Council of International Schools), it is an international league that brings together schools across different countries to compete in various sports. But SCIS is about much more than just competition. These tournaments foster global citizenship, allowing students to experience different cultures, engage in meaningful exchanges, and develop friendships that last long after the tournament weekend.
Unlike local leagues, international sports programs like SCIS create opportunities that shape students' worldviews, helping them develop cultural awareness, respect, and adaptability—all through the universal language of sport.
The Unique Value of International School Sports
Cultural Exchange Through Homestays & Travel-Based Tournaments: One of the most defining features of SCIS is its homestay program. Instead of staying in hotels, students live with host families, offering a firsthand glimpse into daily life in another country. They share meals, navigate different customs, and form meaningful connections that wouldn’t be possible in a traditional tournament setting.
Beyond homestays, traveling for tournaments itself is an eye-opening experience. For many students, it’s their first time navigating a new city or country independently. These experiences help them develop confidence, cultural competence, and adaptability, preparing them for an increasingly interconnected world.
Hosting is equally rewarding. Having hosted visiting students myself, I’ve seen firsthand how both the guest students and the host families benefit. It’s a unique opportunity to build cultural bridges and deepen our school’s international identity.
Building Global Friendships & Sportsmanship: Unlike in local leagues where teams may only interact during the game, SCIS intentionally fosters camaraderie between competitors. Schools meet repeatedly across multiple tournaments, allowing students to develop real connections over time.
This was evident in Prague. Players from different schools exchanged words of encouragement, sat together between games, and genuinely enjoyed the shared experience of international competition. The spirit of sportsmanship and respect that SCIS promotes is unique, reinforcing that these tournaments aren’t just about winning—they’re about learning from each other.
Live-Streaming: Keeping Families Connected Across Borders: Given the global nature of our school community, many of our athletes have family members living in different countries. SCIS schools do a fantastic job of live-streaming games, allowing parents, grandparents, and friends from around the world to cheer on their children.
This small but powerful feature ensures that, no matter where they are, our families remain part of the experience—whether they’re watching from Zurich, Tokyo, or New York. It’s another way international sports leagues bring people together across borders, reinforcing a sense of belonging even for those cheering from afar.
Reflecting on our experience in Prague, it’s clear that SCIS is more than just a sports league—it’s an extension of our international mission. Through travel, homestays, and global competition, our students gain experiences that shape their perspectives, build lifelong friendships, and develop an appreciation for the world beyond their own.
As our school continues its journey in SCIS, I look forward to seeing more of our students step onto the court—not just to play, but to learn, connect, and grow as global citizens.
Mark your calendars: 15-17 May High School Tennis and 21-23 March for Middle School Girls Volleyball for the next opportunity to host Athletes. More information will be sent out by the Student Life Team closer to the events.
Kind regards,
Nathaniel Atherton
Primary Principal