Nanyang Girls’ High School kept hold of the National School Games B Division volleyball title by defeating River Valley High School 25-16, 25-14 on May 4 at Our Tampines Hub in Singapore [1, 2]. The win marked a successful defence of their crown following their rise from the C Division in 2024.
The team credited Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figurines as lucky charms that helped boost morale and calm nerves during matches. The figurines were introduced by player Amelia Wouterson in 2024 during their C Division campaign and have become a symbol of hope and unity for the squad [1, 2].
Team captain Valerie Lim, 15, said, "Back then, they were more like a symbol of hope for us. But after we won, we started to see them as lucky charms. When they’re there, I think the team morale is higher" [1]. Vice-captain Karen Kok, also 15, added that the figurines remind her of their breakthrough first big win: "Every time I see the ninja turtles, it brings me back to that moment" [1].
Valerie Lim explained the team’s inspiration: "They fight together. As a team, we’re fighting together towards the (same) goal every match. Because volleyball is a team sport, you can’t rely on just one person to carry the team. It takes a full team effort" [1]. The players reflected on how the turtles’ teamwork mirrored their collective effort on court [1, 2].
In the boys’ division, St Hilda's College won their 21st consecutive volleyball title. The team credited coach Teo Siew Lan’s emphasis on bravery and vocal communication for sustaining their dominance [1, 2].
Bukit Panjang Government High School secured bronze medals in both the boys’ and girls’ divisions. The girls defeated Xinmin Secondary, while the boys beat Catholic High School (Secondary) to claim third place [1, 2].
