Principal

It is a funny thing, sportsmanship. While we are competitive and want to win every game we play, we cannot let the win be the only thing. If we do this in a game and more importantly in life, who are we? How far are we willing to go to “win”? Who are we willing to hurt? How many teammates have we disappointed with this “win at all costs” attitude? Competition can be healthy and fun, and it can drive us to do our best, but not if it clashes with more important values. 

I recently read a story about two runners. One runner stopped just short of the finishing line, thinking he had already won. The second runner chose not to rush past him to claim the victory, rather telling the other to keep going and helped him to the finish line. A journalist at the end of the race asked the man why, and the runner responded, “What would be the merit of my victory? What would be the honour of that medal? What would my mum think of that?” This is a great example of sportsmanship and values. 

This doesn’t happen as much as it should in sport or in our society. In this difficult age of COVID-19, we see values on stark display as people are willing to wrestle and fight for a roll of toilet paper. I was recently in the line at the supermarket and a new register opened up. The two people in front of me charged to the new register.  The person who “won” snidely commented “you have to be quick!” to the person who was behind him. What do we really win with this sort of aggressive approach, and what do we lose? Having coached school and children’s sport over many years, I have seen the ugly side of this “win at all costs” attitude, ranging from ‘A’ grade to Under 8s. It is a shame to see. What lessons are we setting for our children when a coach or parent on the sidelines has this attitude?

Other reasons to play sport, beyond “winning”? We play for fitness, to socialise and to have fun with mates. Daniel Herbert, a famous Wallaby who played in the winning 1999 World Cup team, was asked for one of his fondest memories of Rugby. His response? Playing with his mates at high school. St Patrick’s gives all students the opportunity to compete in co-curricular activities in sport and numerous other offerings. Boys have the opportunity to develop their skills, not just in the co-curricular arena but in a social setting: making new friends, forming new relationships and enjoying an activity outside of the classroom. Sport gives us more lessons in life than just winning and losing – consider the value of teamwork, perseverance, socialisation, co-operation, confidence, accountability, resilience, to name just a few – playing sport and being part of a team are skills we need for life. 

Finally, these are some of the skills our Year 12 students will need as they embark on their Trial HSC exam period over the next two weeks. They too will want to be competitive and do their very best. Please keep the boys in your prayers during this time. We wish them the very best.

Thank you to all parents and carers who complied with our COVID-19 rules and regulations at co-curricular events over the weekend, keeping safe distance to help protect ourselves and others and remembering our values of co-operation and community spirit.

Condolence

Please pray for Anthony and Nathan Sleiman (Year 7), Aiden Wehbe (Year 6) and their families as they mourn the loss of their grandfather George Abdo who passed away last week. Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.

Damian Chase

Acting Principal