2015 Sport Summary
The Wesley College 2015 sport program has again been one featuring involvement and development across all teams and sports. As a member of the Associated Public Schools (APS), Wesley values its sporting traditions and its history of success in the sporting arena. We recognise that sport is an essential part of Australian culture and we share the passion for sporting success enjoyed in our community.
We celebrate individual and team achievement in sport equally for boys and girls. Students build stronger friendships with each other and with their coaches through their interactions on the sporting field. Students’ school spirit and pride is enhanced when they are part of a competitive sports team.
Sport is also about being physically active, having fun, enjoying good health and trying something new. With 19 sports to choose from, and a range of other diverse sporting opportunities, Wesley offers something for everyone.
In 2015 Wesley students have embraced these sporting opportunities, both within the APS/AGSV competition, as well as state and national streams. I hope that all Wesley students and families have benefited from their involvement in the program and sampled development and success. Our focus continues to be on all areas of the program, to provide all students the best sporting opportunities and experiences.
This year’s College theme of Living Memory has been a great one for sport, as each of us reflects on the highs and lows of competition.
If I relive some of the sporting memories in the wider world of sport this year I think of:
- The tragic death of Philip Hughes at the Sydney Cricket Ground and the impact that had on the world of cricket and communities
- The ongoing Essendon Football Club supplement saga and drugs in many other sports
- The Diamonds winning the World Netball Championship against arch-rival, the Silver Ferns
- The Adam Goodes booing incidents and the ensuing discussions about racism and sport or can we use sport as a way to educate people about issues
- The tragic death of Adelaide Crows AFL coach Phil Walsh father, coach, teacher, leader of young men. His life tragically cut short - which also highlighted violence and community concerns around drug use – something that knows no boundaries
- Greed and corruption at the highest levels of the world game at FIFA
- The inequity of male/female sport at so many levels - media coverage, sponsorship and player payments to name a few, but also the excitement of Michelle Payne being the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup
Then there are the lessons of commitment to training, dealing with winning/losing, umpiring decisions, your own form etc. Sport certainly does mirror life.
At the First team level, the highlights of the year were undoubtedly our girls’ premierships in diving, swimming, cross country, athletics, water polo, as well as the second placing by boys’ table tennis, cross country and basketball.
A huge thank you to the College grounds and maintenance staff who have prepared and presented the sporting grounds and venues in first-class condition each week.
I congratulate all students and families for their participation and hope that the students feel proud of their efforts in 2015 and are looking forward to further improvement and involvement in 2016.
