Where Friendship, Joy and Teamwork Take the Field
Playing sport offers a wonderful opportunity to give our best, to practice sacrifice and above all, to discover that we are not alone. In a world where it is all too easy to retreat into virtual connections that leave us isolated, sport draws us back into genuine relationships.
When we play with a ball, we learn to share, to pass, to think tactically and to work with and for others. The ball becomes more than a piece of equipment; it becomes an instrument that invites us into friendship, draws us into real spaces face to face and calls us to test our skills alongside and against one another.
Some of my fondest sporting memories are not from grand stadiums, but from backyard cricket with friends and family. On a turning pitch, with a touch of friendly sledging, you discover the gift of companionship and the simple joy of play. St John Bosco captured it perfectly when he said, “You want children? Throw a ball into the air and before it hits the ground, just see how many will have turned up!” Sport has that magnetic power to draw people together.
I have always believed in the all-round benefits of ‘sport done well’ in schools. Sport offers boys a healthy channel for energy, while also building a strong sense of belonging. It teaches generosity, respect, resilience and celebrates involvement, effort and achievement. Of course, so too do music, drama, and art; each enriching our boys.
Sport also strengthens the qualities we most want to see in our young men: self-discipline, perseverance, selflessness and humility. It builds confidence, teaches them to face challenges and encourages a healthy lifestyle. While we rightly support our elite athletes with expertise and opportunities, we also hold close the wisdom of a youth coach I once heard: ‘On the field, you need to walk on tiptoes so as not to trample on the dreams of youngsters.’ I am grateful that the culture of sport at our College reflects this philosophy; competitive but never crushing, ambitious but always with dignity.
None of this happens by accident. Our sports program flourishes because of the generosity of so many people. To our teaching staff who coach and manage teams, thank you. Their willingness to give time and energy speaks volumes about their dedication to the boys and the College. To our parent body, all of whom give freely of their time as coaches, managers, first aiders, canteen helpers and committee members, we are deeply grateful. Your expertise and support make a tremendous difference and have helped shape not only better players but finer young men
Perhaps the greatest gift of sport is enjoyment; the simple delight of playing with and for others. The laughter on the sidelines, the shared celebrations, even the disappointments, all build bonds that last. Sport reminds us of that truth: that joy, laughter and friendship are as vital to education as books and exams.
Matthew Hutchison
Headmaster
