Student Voice: Celebrating Mustang Spirit on Sports Day 2025
Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi is made up of students from around the world, with a depth and breadth of experiences that create a vibrant, thriving student body community. Our goal is for all students to Live Worldwise; to leave the College with the knowledge, skills and motivation to make a positive difference in the world as successful 21st century global citizens. When our students go out into the world, they do so having been guided to lead, work collaboratively, seek connections, find common ground and to be empathetic.
In our Student Voice series of articles, we provide a platform for the students in our community to share their experiences and passions.
In this edition, we spotlight one of the most anticipated events in our school calendar: Sports Day, which brings together students, parents, and teachers to celebrate the spirit of competition and teamwork. This exciting day showcases the numerous benefits of sports, allowing students to demonstrate the skills they have honed in their lessons and as part of our Mustangs programme.
Annabelle R, our dynamic Student Voice Champion, shares her reflections on this powerful day and what true Mustang spirit means to her.
Annabelle R | Student Voice Champion
Celebrating Mustang Spirit: Sports Day at Dulwich College Shanghai Puxi
At Dulwich Puxi, Sports Day is more than just an event - it’s a tradition that brings our community together through Pride, Passion, Respect, and Resilience
As a Student Voice Champion, I’ve had the privilege of seeing how much this day means to students across all age groups. From DUCKS to Senior School, it’s a powerful reminder of what it means to be part of the Mustangs and Dulwich family.
What makes Sports Day truly special is that it gives every student the chance to shine. It’s not only about who finishes first; it’s about showing courage, trying your best, supporting your friends, and having fun. That’s what Mustang spirit is all about and it's excatly what universities look for too: students who are passionate, resilient, and team-oriented.
DUCKS Sports Day: Joy in the Journey
Our DUCKS students kicked off the week, and their enthusiasm set the tone for everything that followed. From football shooting to nerf throwing and obstacle races, our littlest Mustangs gave it their all. As I cheered them on, I was inspired by how fearless they were - running full speed in sack races, laughing through challenges, and never giving up. A special moment was watching the Year 1 and Year 2 students compete in their sprint finals, supported by our brilliant Year 5 and 6 leaders. It showed how even our youngest students are already learning about teamwork and leadership.
Junior School Sports Day: Rising to the Challenge
29 April brought an exciting new format to our Junior School Sports Day, turning it into a multisport experience. With swimming, football, and athletics on the schedule, students had the chance to challenge themselves in different ways. As I moved between events, I saw determination and joy in equal measure - students sprinting for their Houses, diving into the pool with confidence, and shouting encouragement from the sidelines. The energy during the sprint finals was unforgettable. It was more than a race; it was a display of unity and support, with every house cheering each other on. That’s what sportsmanship looks like.
Senior School Sports Day: Competing With Heart
In Senior School, the focus was not just on physical ability, but also on strategy, leadership, and personal growth. Events like the aquathon, chess, E-Sports, and traditional athletics showed that there’s a place for every kind of competitor. Our "Aiming Further, Faster, Higher" challenges encouraged students to beat their own bests - something I found personally motivating. Watching my classmates push themselves while also lifting each other up reminded me how sport can build character. It wasn’t just about winning - it was about growing!
What Sports Day Means to Me?
As a Student Voice Champion, I’m proud to be part of a school that values not only achievement but also efforts, respect, and connection. Sports Day is a celebration of our identity as Mustangs - and every jump, sprint, swim, and cheer echoes our values. It brings out the best in us, uniting us as one community. And most importantly, it reminds us that success isn’t just measured in medals or points - it’s measured in the pride we carry, the passion we show, the respect we give, and the resilience we build together. I can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve next year!
