FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Term 3 - Week 5

Last night many of us sat down with our families to watch the mighty Matildas take on England in the semi-final of the Women’s FIFA World Cup. While the result did not go the way we wished, we can all hold our heads sky high as Matildas supporters. 

I have thoroughly enjoyed our nation coming together as one to support the Matildas. I cannot think of a time in recent history where the entire country was so united in their support for a cause.

Sport is a wonderful metaphor for life! For our school community there are so many learnings from the Matildas World Cup Campaign:

• The power of unity: A united country lifted our girls to exceed expectations 
• Resilience: The Matildas faced considerable adversity throughout the tournament (losing their star player before the tournament, losing their second pool game, going behind in a penalty shootout …), though displayed exceptional resilience in accepting each setback as a challenge to reach the semi-finals.
• Teamwork: Our Matildas are unbelievable athletes and remarkable soccer players. The world is however home to more gifted soccer players than our Matildas squad, yet our girls once again proved a champion team is far more successful than a team of champions.
• Diversity: Our Matildas are a very diverse group of girls who come together in a way which embraces and amplifies the strengths of each individual.
• Grit: Hard work is the foundation to any success.
• Winning and losing with dignity: We all experience success and failure, though our true character is revealed when we are at our highest and lowest.

At St Nicholas we are so very proud of the Matildas. I trust our school community can honour the girls by embracing the character they continue to display. 

Have a great week

John Clery

Principal