Especean

Co-Curricular - Junior Sport Stage 3

Earlier this term, we began an exciting new opportunity for the boys in Junior School. Each Tuesday at Lunch, the College Gym was open specifically for the boys for some focused athletic development sessions. Sessions are designed specifically for the 10-12 age group and focuses on utilising the whole body better to move more effectively and efficiently. Due to the nature of the sessions, boys will also achieve cardiovascular benefit as well. Sessions are fun and engaging, often ending with a small group challenge or a game.

 

At present, only a small number of regular trainers attend the Tuesday sessions. We hope to increase this number in Term 4. To encourage more boys to participate and provide greater access, the Gym will also be open on Thursdays. Below are some quotes from Year 6 boys who regularly attend the sessions, sharing their experiences.

 

The Junior School Athletic Development is a fun and amazing activity to participate in at the gym. It is every Tuesday at lunch, and we work on new things each week like running and jumping. It is extremely fun, and you can bring your friends. It is a great activity to participate in and helps you get better at different aspects of athletics.                

Luca Spadaccini, 6 Red

 

Joining the Athletics Development Group has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Being part of the athletics development training has helped me grow in so many ways. Training pushes you but it also allows you to have so much fun at the same time. Throughout the time I’ve been a part of the training I have developed in my speed, jump and stamina. It has made me stronger and more focused. The support from Mr McCann and peers pushes me to improve and believe in myself. It’s made me more confident, resilient, and proud to be part of something that challenges me every week.         

Noah Pytraczyk, 6 Black

 

These sessions are not targeted at any specific student; anyone is welcome to join at any time. There is no restriction on how often you attend and whether you play sport or not. The benefits are tailored to the individual. In saying that, if you play in a school team and have intentions of achieving a high level, then these sessions are a must. They will provide you with body awareness and movement ability to progress through the levels of any sport. If you are in an A or B College Team, these sessions are going to keep you competitive, if not give you the edge over our opposition, many of them having already implemented similar programs in their schools. 

 

Over the years at St Patrick’s College, we have been fortunate to have many professional athletes come and speak to the boys at the College. Overwhelmingly, one of their main points for young athletes is to play as many different sports as they can. The skills that you gain, and the game sense are all transferable to your chosen sport. You take bits and pieces from your experience that make you a better player. The other advantage is your body develops movement patterns and strength through a variety of different movements and body loadings. Ultimately making you a more rounded, balanced athlete.

 

As we near the end of Term 3 and the beginning of Term 4, we start to get busy with a number of events and activities. A few reminders for the end of Term 3 and beginning of Term 4.

 

  • Junior School Sport Photos – Monday 22 September. Boys come to school in winter uniform and bring their playing uniforms to change into for photos. Boots should be worn for winter sport photos.

     

  • Junior School Winter Sport Presentation Night – Thursday 25 September in the College Gym. Boys wear winter uniform (no blue cap), please be seated at 5:45 PM for a 6:00 PM start. Presentation should be concluded by 7:30 PM.

     

  • Summer Sport commencement in Term 4 – Training will start as per the schedule on Wednesday 15 October (first day back). We continue the season with Round 7 on Saturday 18 October. The draft draw is available on the SPC App and Parent Orbit App.

     

  • All Junior School PE practical lessons will be held at the College swimming pool. Boys should have their College jammers ready for these lessons.

 

“The only place that success comes before work is in the dictionary.”

                                                                                                                                   Vince Lombardi

 

John Locke 

Head of Stage 3 Co-Curricular