SSP NEWS

James Worpel alumni visit

We were thrilled to welcome back WHC alumni AFL footballer James Worpel yesterday to inspire our students.

James graduated from WHC in the Class of 2016 and was drafted the following year by the Hawthorn Football Club, where he still plays today. He kindly volunteered to come back to his old school on his day off to take part in an afternoon of activities.

His visit began with a quick Q&A during assembly for Year 10-12 students, hosted by Susie Robinson from our football program. He spoke about how he became interested in footy, the challenges of transitioning from school to professional sports, working hard at school and in his sport, the attributes club recruiters are looking for, planning for his future beyond sport, his advice for current students and much more. 

Summer Field, Y12: "I found James to be a great motivational speaker, he was easy to relate to as he was recently in the same position as us (studying VCE). Great to see an ex WHC student succeed!'

Lu Temelkovski, staff: "I enjoyed the way he spoke about the great interpersonal qualities you need to develop to be successful in the professional sporting world. He is a good person!"

He was also good enough to help us acknowledge our Open Night volunteers, new school student leaders and Year 12 students. To wrap up the assembly, James presented us with a signed Hawks jumper with the words: “Thanks for the memories!”

After assembly, we took James on a school tour to see how much the school has changed in the last six years. 

Then, we headed to the Green building to conduct a longer Q&A with some students from Year 9 and 10 and the Academy. Questions flowed thick and fast from the students, covering topics like his weekly schedule, diet, responding to feedback, becoming a more mature and independent person, and the hard work required to play at the top level.

Izzy Triaca, Y10: "It is so great to have the opportunity to listen to someone who has achieved what we (in the Specialist Sporting AFL Program) are striving for!"

The Academy Y12 boys: "Inspirational!" "He worked hard!" “Keep pushing even when it doesn't work out, don't give up!"

Throughout the afternoon, James was gracious and patient in taking selfies and signing items for students and staff. His humble and down-to-earth nature shone through. 

Marli McCarthy, Y7 LCL: “When I had James as a student, I always found him to be a hard worker and a decent person. He was the type of student you could have a joke with, but he knew when it was time to work. I admired the way his family supported his sporting endeavours and I think this helped shape the character traits he displays today."

Thank you to James for coming back to WHC. The WHC Alumni Program looks forward to organising more opportunities with James in the future!

• Jennifer Chiu and Cate Johnson

UNIFORM FOR SALE 

We have some old stock available for sale at the General Office for a discounted price. 

Very limited sizes available, first in best dressed!

SBP Everyday shorts: 3xs

SBP Training top: kids 14, xs

SBP Softshell Jacket: kids 14

SBP grey zip jacket: 2xs, XS, M, L, XL, 2XL

SBP Trackies:  2xs

SBP Orange/Navy shorts: xs, kids 12, kids 14

Navy playing shorts: M,L, XL

Reversible singlet: M

SFP Longsleeve Training top/jersey: small, 2xs, 3xs, Medium, Large 

SFP Polo: kids 14, small 

SFP Training top: kids 12, kids 14, small, Xs

SFP Womens shorts: 10/small 

SFP Footy Shorts: XL, Xs 

SFP Everyday Shorts: 3xs 

Cap: x5

Mid Length Socks:x5(2-8)

Long Footy socks: x8

Ankle length socks: x5(2-8)

Grey zip jackets - 50% off 

All other stock - 30% off 

If you need to purchase SSP Uniform throughout the year you will need to order through this link - https://orders.indigowolf.com.au/whcssp

Please note we will no longer be keeping stock here at WHC, once you place an order through Indigo Wolf they will send it directly to your address. Any issues with sizing, you will need to contact Indigo Wolf directly.