Deputy Principal

The Power of Sport

I was reminded over the weekend of the power of sport. Sport in so many ways brings the community together. I was lucky enough to watch live and on television three magical games of football. On Saturday at 12:40 PM our First XI team played their semi-final against St Pius X College. It was a very tense game, played in good spirits. St Pius controlled the ball better in the first half, yet we still went into half-time at nil all. In the second half we created many chances, yet we could not put one in the back of the net. As the full-time whistle blew, it was still nil all, which sent the game into extra time. At the conclusion of extra time, the score remained unchanged and that sent the game into a penalty shootout. What amazed me throughout the entire game was the composure of both sides. The ability to keep playing under immense pressure. The penalty shootout was nail-biting, and we managed to inch past the St Pius team on penalties with some wonderful saves by our goalkeeper Marc Ferro. 

On Saturday night I settled down on the lounge with my family to watch the Matildas. This team has captivated the nation and brought us all together. The skill of this team is second to none and the way they have conducted themselves by supporting each other, playing the game in the spirit that should be, is something that we can all learn from. I still cannot believe the penalty shootout went to ten goals. I read an amazing piece in the paper on Sunday about Cortnee Vine who kicked the final goal to put us through to the Women’s World Cup semi-final. Cortnee said she had struggled with imposter syndrome as most of the team play in football leagues around the world and she plays in the A-League here in Australia. She said that she has always questioned whether she belongs. What an amazing story and such a teachable moment for us as parents/carers. I know I sat down with my daughters and spoke to them about believing in themselves and that they can achieve anything they put their minds to.

On Sunday morning the football marathon continued with my daughter’s grand final: Strathfield against Marrickville. My daughter’s team went into the game as minor premiers but had lost two weeks before to Marrickville in a semi-final. It was great to see children running around with their friends and playing sport. The game was played in good spirits. A close game that was one all until the last ten minutes when Marrickville scored the decider. No penalty shootout in this game and while disappointed, the girls and families could celebrate their achievements which included great positive coaching and a group of young girls who had fun.

Not a bad weekend, two wins and one loss. When you think about it though, through sport, everyone is a winner.

Adrian Byrne

Deputy Principal