The Olympic and Paralympic Games, those weeks-long extravaganzas of athletic competition that happen every four years, have long been more than just games. The Olympics, in their essence, are a stage for showcasing the best human values – like fair play, respect and the courage to strive for excellence. These ideas are not just important, they are the very fabric of our shared humanity and encourage reflection on our own democratic underpinnings.
Just like the ancient games, the modern Olympics have always included people from all walks of life – different countries, races and religions. The sight of athletes worldwide chasing their dreams and pushing their limits is not just inspiring, it’s a testament to the potential of the human spirit. It’s a powerful message about the importance of diligence, perseverance, and the transformative power to inspire us to be our best selves.
Every Olympic Games is remembered for stories of endeavour and friendship which will stay with us for a long time. Countless stories have come out of the last two weeks and many of us would have a favourite. For myself, there are many, but one story that really stood out during the first week of the Olympics occurred when the North Korean and South Korean medalists posed together for a ‘selfie’ on the podium following the table tennis final. The scene was one that transcends borders and governments; a true example of the Olympics power to unite people through sport.
At OHR we had our own Olympic Day! We had an unseasonal fine day for our OHR Olympic Day on Tuesday, 6 August. We began the day by gathering in the Hall as a school community where our leaders read the Athlete’s Oath, shared a brief history of the Olympic Games, and explored the significant Olympians after whom our four school houses are named. As part of our Opening Ceremony, we invited two special guest speakers, David and Siobhan Crawshay. David spoke of his Olympic experience, sharing insights into his training regime and diet, before commentating on the video capturing David and Scott Brennan’s gold medal win in the men’s double sculls at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Siobhan spoke very passionately about the courage of those in the Australian Paralympic team. Siobhan will be the lead dietician for many of the Australian Paralympians in Paris this year.
Following the Opening Ceremony, the students rotated through a range of activities across the day. A special thanks to the senior students and teachers who lead these activities.
Following lunch, we had a surprise visit from six members of the Richmond AFLW team, including their captain Katie Brennan. All the students were gathered outside to listen to these young women speak and answer any questions. Afterwards our visitors toured the school grounds and engaged with the students as they completed their final rotations of activities. What a great way to conclude our Olympic day!
Boroondara Division Soccer Day – students in Year 5/6 competed in three sports during our weekly Winter Interschool Sports Season. Our boys/mixed soccer team won every game and thus were the North Balwyn District Small School Premiers for 2024. This qualified them to enter the Boroondara Division Soccer Finals which were held on Wednesday, 31 July at Hartwell Sports Ground. Of the five schools competing, we were comfortably the smallest in terms of students attending the school – so we were definitely up for a challenge.
Our first two games against Mont Albert PS and Canterbury PS were closely fought but a few late goals in both games resulted in 3-0 losses. Our third game was a see-sawing affair that ultimately resulted in a narrow 3-2 loss to Ashburton PS. Our final game against Kew PS, again saw us fall behind 2-1 at half time. An inspired final effort saw us slot home 3 goals in the second half for a 4-2 victory.
These results saw the team finish in fourth place out of five schools. The whole team should be proud that they took it right up to every team including the eventual winners Canterbury PS. Congratulations to all the students who represented OHR so enthusiastically and respectfully on the day, as well as quite a few other students who played games of soccer for the team during Interschool Sport this season.
What a wonderful start to term 3 we have had, filled with excitement, great learning opportunities, and inspirational and memorable events.
Published: 9 August 2024
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