Girls' Firsts

Jasmine Paice, Year 11, Ridgeway Campus 

Co-Captain of Girls' Firsts Softball

Being a co-captain of the Ivanhoe Softball Firsts team was honestly one of the best experiences I have had at Ivanhoe. At the beginning of the season, we were not the strongest team as some of our outstanding players had graduated. However, as the season continued, everyone’s skills really developed, which was so rewarding as we ended up winning and playing some successful games. 

It was such an amazing opportunity to lead a team that was supportive and motivated, and I am so grateful for the friendships I made along the way. The team culture, enthusiasm, and skill from everyone grew noticeably, and it made every training session and game something to look forward to. Even though we didn’t finish at the top, the effort, improvement, and energy from everyone is truly what made it a memorable season. I loved seeing how we all bonded, and how much fun we had both on and off the field. 

Sadie Cleary, Year 12, Ridgeway Campus 

Co-Captain of Girls' Firsts Softball

This Summer Sport season for the girls’ Firsts softball team was a complicated one with many challenges that the team had to face together to overcome. We had seven girls from the class of 2024 leave us, meaning we had seven spots to be filled by new players. This resulted in a relatively young team of students who were less experienced and more timid leading up to the first competition. As team captain, I had the privilege of mentoring these younger girls and bringing them into the team with the hope that they feel both comfortable and supported in their efforts. I hoped that through my time as captain I was able to make a positive impact on the team culture, which I had the pleasure of being a part of and loved through my four years in the team. This year I was able to build connections with girls in younger year levels and in my opinion, this made our team stronger. Although we didn’t have the most successful year (only winning three out of our twelve games), the bonds that were created within the team will be valued for a long time to come. 

Alessia Jones, Year 11, Ridgeway Campus 

Captain of Girls' Firsts Tennis

Representing Ivanhoe Grammar School as the 2025 Girls Firsts’ Tennis Captain was an absolute privilege, it has been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my school life. From the moment I joined the team I felt a strong sense of belonging through the generosity displayed by the wonderful coaches Jo and Jeremy, who both put in 100% effort by dedicating their time to training sessions and Saturday morning sport. Through their large engagement with the team, the girls Firsts has undoubtably improved in not only the results displayed on the tennis court but through the culture and community exemplified off the court. Holding this significant leadership role and title has allowed me to build and maintain a team culture based on respect, dedication and sportsmanship, which has shone through so much this season.  

The Girls Firsts Tennis team has come a long way, from not having a team to represent Ivanhoe Grammar School, to now being an exceptionally talented group of individuals who proudly represent the school at competitions. We began the season in ECP winning our first few matches, soon followed by a few losses, but there is no doubt that effort, resilience and eagerness to win was demonstrated by all individuals. All players bring unique qualities to the team, creating a positive and inclusive environment, making it feel more like a family. Personally, I enjoyed every second of being part of this group where I can lead through not only my skills on court but also leading by example off the court. Being part of a team where you can be yourself, laugh and have a good time is pivotal in playing a sport, it provides an environment where everyone feels as if they belong and this is why I love the Girls’ Firsts Tennis team, I love the people I am surrounded by as well as the game I get to play. Overall, it is evident that all players have talent, so despite not finishing at the top of the ladder, as Captain of the team I couldn’t be prouder of the game all girls put forward and of the love for the sport they displayed. I cannot wait for next season where we can come back better than ever and fight for our position at the top of the ladder, because that is what this team deserves.