Co-Curricular

The Risk of Showing Up

I am taking a risk this week and somewhat stealing from Dr Lavorato. 

At last week’s assembly, Dr Lavorato spoke to our students about the importance of risk. Not reckless risk, but the kind that is calculated and calls something out of you. Risk that requires you to step forward, to make yourself visible, and to take responsibility for what might follow. 

She shared the example of our College Captain, Francesco, who took it upon himself to contact GWS Giants captain Stephen Coniglio and invite him to speak at the Year 12 Young Leaders’ Afternoon Tea. No intermediary. No guarantee of a reply. Just a student, reaching out.

And Stephen showed up.

He reportedly noted in his address – and I hope I got this right – that “you shouldn’t risk everything, but sometimes taking a risk is everything.” The opportunity for our students and those attending from other schools that afternoon, existed because one of their peers was willing to risk the possibility of being ignored, declined, or even embarrassed.

It reminded me of my own 19-year-old self – not equally willing to risk embarrassment, but certainly a little – emailing Wayne Bennett through the Brisbane Broncos website to ask for advice about rugby union (yes, union… which may have been reason enough not to reply). At the time, I had read his book Don’t Die With the Music in You and found myself at a crossroads in both rugby and life.

To my genuine amazement, a few days later, I received a reply.

The advice was clear, honest, and tough – delivered in the unmistakable Bennett style many will have come to recognise in his interviews or writing. It didn’t flatter or indulge. It challenged. But more importantly, it was given because someone on the other end of that exchange chose to take a risk.

Dr Lavorato also made an important distinction; that showing up is very different from showing off. In a world that often rewards image and attention, there remains something deeply formative and dignified about the consistency of presence.

This cannot be overstated in the co-curricular space.

It was demonstrated just this week by a parent who had respectfully sought leave from a basketball fixture for their son. The request came late and, unfortunately, could not be accommodated without impacting the team. The parent accepted the decision and confirmed their son would be at the game.

That is showing up.

Not because it is convenient. Not because it draws attention. But because others are relying on you.

In many ways, as Dr Lavorato alluded to, this is the kind of masculinity we seek to develop at St Patrick’s – one grounded in responsibility, in presence, and in commitment to something beyond ourselves.

It has also been a reminder for me personally. To show up more consistently – physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually – in all aspects of life.

As our co-curricular program gains some momentum in 2026, I hope to see our boys continue to take the right kinds of risks.

“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” - Proverbs 16:3

Adam Watson

Director of Co-Curricular