In Term 4, students and staff alike have welcomed the opportunity to engage in School Sport once again. While we are proud of the online sporting opportunities that were available to students during remote learning, they cannot replicate the enjoyment that comes from physical engagement in Sport with others. Activities offered this term have included Netball, Tennis, Run Group, Swim Group, Strength & Conditioning and Rowing. We have also enjoyed renewing our partnerships with the Victorian Tennis Academy, Aussie Aths, H2O Swimming Works and our community-based netball teams.

Celebration of Sport Evening guest speaker and ultra-marathon runner, Jacqui Bell

The term started with our annual ‘Celebration of Sport Event’, where we recognised the performances and spirit of our student athletes. Guest speaker and ultra-marathon runner Jacqui Bell was highly inspiring in describing her journey to becoming the youngest female in the world to conquer Racing the Planets x4 Desert Grand Slam, and the youngest person to run an ultra-marathon on all seven continents. Her story of resilience, purpose and what it takes to strive for a higher potential, regardless of the opportunities, was pertinent for not only our students’ sporting pursuits, but also their academic and personal lives.

The success of our program is without doubt due to the support of our Physical Education & Sport staff and specialist coaches. The ongoing innovation, creativity and enthusiasm displayed by these staff has been integral in ensuring Sport has continued in its various forms this year. A big congratulations must go to all students who have been involved in St Catherine’s Sport this year. The Sport department is incredibly proud of the resilience and determination shown by the St Catherine’s students through their efforts to remain active.

We look forward to Term 1 Sport in 2021, with GSV Swimming, Diving, Softball and Tennis all scheduled to commence upon our return to School. A busy term will also see our rowers working towards the HOSG regatta, as well as the Girlsail, GSV Golf and GSV Triathlon events all taking place. Information regarding these programs will be communicated in January. We wish everyone a restful upcoming break and encourage students to keep up their physical activity throughout the holidays.