KOTA MARUDU: Two students from Sekolah Menengah Advent Goshen (SMAG) have once again demonstrated that excellence extends beyond the classroom after capturing one gold medal and one silver medal at the Keningau Open Muaythai Championship 3.0, further enhancing the school’s growing reputation for sporting achievement.
Competing against talented fighters from across Sabah, Charice Aurelia Lee Victor emerged as champion after winning the gold medal in the 16–17 years, 49kg category, while fellow student Aricca Evea Noemi delivered an impressive performance to secure the silver medal in the 16-year-old, 49–51kg category.
Their outstanding performances reflected months of disciplined training, physical endurance and mental resilience, qualities that enabled both athletes to perform confidently under pressure throughout the state-level championship.
The achievements have been widely celebrated by the SMAG community, with school administrators describing the medals as another milestone in the institution’s mission to nurture students who excel academically, physically and morally.
School officials noted that success in competitive sports is never achieved overnight, but is built upon consistent commitment, perseverance and the willingness to overcome challenges through hard work and self-discipline.
According to the school, the accomplishments of Charice and Aricca are the result of dedicated coaching, unwavering support from teachers and parents, and the determination shown by the athletes themselves in balancing rigorous training schedules with their academic responsibilities.
The victories also reflect SMAG’s holistic educational philosophy, which places equal emphasis on academic excellence, co-curricular development, character building and spiritual growth in accordance with Adventist educational values.
School leaders believe that participation in competitive sports provides students with valuable life lessons beyond winning medals, including discipline, humility, resilience, respect and teamwork—qualities that will continue to benefit them throughout their lives.
SMAG also expressed its appreciation to the athletes’ coaches, teachers, parents and supporters, whose encouragement and sacrifices played a significant role in helping the students perform at their best on the state stage.
The school described the medals as a shared achievement that belongs not only to the athletes, but also to everyone who contributed to their journey towards success.
For Charice and Aricca, the championship represents another important step in their sporting careers while inspiring younger students to pursue their own dreams with dedication and confidence.
