From the Principal

Welcome to the new term

Best wishes to all students, staff and families for the new term. It has already been a busy month for our Year 12 students as they undertake final school-based assessments. We wish all students and staff well for the this term.

The ride home 

Last weekend I had a discussion with my 23 year old daughter as follows:

“In Australian Rules Football, there are lots of rotations, so players are kept fresh, why don’t they do the same thing in netball?’

‘Dad, netball is not football and you do not fully understand the game!’

My daughter had just played a state league final, so it was a good reality check for a ‘well meaning’ Dad.

I had the pleasure of attending our annual Sport Awards’ Evening this week. It was brilliant that we were able to celebrate achievement in sport at the College given the circumstances of 2020. It is also great that so many of our students combine an interest in sport with many other pursuits at the College and beyond.

Like many parents I have spent a lot of time watching my own children playing netball and other games and my job has enabled me to view countless hours of school and community events as well. It is always a labour of love and the benefits of an active lifestyle are very clear for all participants.

Some years ago, I was referred to an excellent study that focused on reasons why children stop playing sport. High on the list was the over analysis by parents in the ride home after the game. It was a good lesson for this netball Dad to ensure that the focus is on enjoyment rather than a critique of performance.

Our College is part of the Associated and Catholic Colleges (ACC) sporting network and the Northern Associated Schools (NAS) has spent time examining its sport offerings. There is more work to be completed in this area but there is no doubt that our young people are looking for alternative recreational activities which may differ from traditional sports. It is an exciting time as we look to find avenues to engage all our students in healthy physical pursuits.

Congratulations to all our sport award winners this week and well done to all our students and staff for their involvement in our programs. As with all our programs, it is wonderful that we have such great parental support and encouragement.

Robert Henderson

Principal