Illinois Cooney

Tuesday, 4th November 2025 at 8:20am

Illinois Cooney (Year 12) certainly makes the most of every opportunity!

His positive attitude was featured in a recent RNZ news item, by Digital Journalist Serena Solomon, outlining the importance of keeping busy, less device time and following your passion.

Having overcome the trials and tribulations of Covid lockdowns during his formative teenage years, Illinois turned his frown upside down, replacing his online devices with sports and the great outdoors, re-igniting his zest for life.

The article highlights the importance of being social, spending less 'spare time' on devices, and staying active.

Click HERE to read the article, published 27 October 2025.

image sourced from RNZ.co.nz: https://www.rnz.co.nz/life/wellbeing/social-media-depressed-him-lifeguarding-saved-him?fbclid=IwY2xjawN11pNleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETE1V2ZuOUUyWTNyRm5rVkRnAR5SaZrUjGhhnJPhQZADHZnrPBeJlL89uykheQt-hWmCI1RB2MJnKtTHjs6edQ_aem_vVyMKnueN_WlMP-lbc1qJQ