From the Principal

Father’s Day celebrations

Last year, the Hon Kristina Keneally spoke to a meeting of Catholic Principals on leadership and what leaders can do to avoid having to throw a ‘Hail Mary’ pass.

Part of her address included the following introduction:

In 1975 the Dallas Cowboys' quarterback Roger Staubach made a desperation pass in the last 30 seconds of a playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings. It was a long forward pass to his receiver Drew Pearson. The chances of an accurate pass, of Pearson catching it, and of Pearson making into the end zone without being tackled were all minimal. But there was a chance. It was a desperate act by a desperate leader in the final minutes. For Staubach, it worked. The Cowboys won 17-14.

When asked after the game how he completed the pass in such difficult circumstances, the Catholic Staubach simply said, "I closed my eyes and said a Hail Mary."

A Hail Mary pass tells us about the person in charge, the one carrying the ball, and their instinctual leap of faith and final attempt at success. Will it succeed? Maybe. Possibly not. But at least there is a chance of success.

The English cricketer, Ben Stokes, played some extraordinary cricket shots to win a test match last weekend. He showed incredible skill; lots of audacity and rode his luck. It was a fairy tale ending for all but Australian supporters!

Parenting is much more than throwing miraculous passes or incredible batting skill. It is often hard work, but it is incredibly rewarding and the love of any good parent for a child is unconditional. This week we honour our fathers and remember all those whom have impacted our lives so positively. It is not always the work of miracles, but it is the work of love. Best wishes to all our Dads for Father’s Day.

Robert Henderson

Principal