Captains’ Corner | Vice Captain, Angus White

Last Saturday marked a highlight on the Terrace calendar, the annual clash between Terrace and Nudgee. It was an excellent community day. No different to any other year, thousands from both schools went to Nudgee to support their mates on the field and court. Despite the fierce nature of the rivalry, sportsmanship was on display from 9am on Flat 8 to 2.15pm on Ross Oval. Sportsmanship that reflected the Edmund Rice charism that both schools actively engage in. Moreover, these small acts of sportsmanship reminded me of the story of Cecil Healy, whose reputation was built from his exploits at the 1912 summer Olympics in Stockholm.

Cecil demonstrated unparalleled sportsmanship, selflessness and a genuine and natural willingness to do the right thing. The build-up to the Stockholm Olympics centred around the anticipated performance from the Hawaiian “freestyle freak” Duke Khanamoku, who was expected to dominate the pool and shatter his own world record.  During the heat stages of the 100m freestyle Duke clearly outperformed the rest of the pool, which further enhanced and increased anticipation. Leading into the semi-finals, Duke was the fastest qualifier, with Cecil a distant second. However, due to mismanagement in the American Team, Duke and the rest of the American swimmers missed the semi-finals. Instead of Cecil embracing the opportunity of an almost guaranteed Gold medal, he protested. Cecil insisted that Duke and his team should be extended the opportunity to swim. Cecil sacrificed his virtual guarantee of a gold medal simply because he didn't think it was right and he didn't think it was fair. After the final, which Duke duly won, Duke raised Cecil’s arm and said that “ this is the true Olympic champion” Cecil undoubtedly was a man of character and depth. He prioritised what was right and what was fair, well above personal gain and achievement. 

Sadly, the Stockholm Olympics would be Cecil’s last due to the outbreak of World War 1. During this time, Cecil didn't get upset that he would never be able to compete and prove himself on the world stage. Once again, he did what he thought was the right thing and enlisted to fight in the Australian Army. He spent most of his time working as a mechanic on warships in Libya and Egypt. However, weeks before the war ended, when the Allies were desperately struggling, a call for soldiers on the front line was required. Once again Cecil didn't shy away from the challenge, didn’t question it, put the needs of others before himself and answered the call to fight. On the battlegrounds in Somme, Cecil made the ultimate sacrifice, dying a couple of days before the war ended, and is thought to be the last general to die in the war. 

Cecil clearly is a positive role model and his values, attributes and heroism are applicable in many different environments, but it has particular relevance to the Terrace Family. Much of the way Cecil acted reflects the values of the Terrace Gentleman and is consistent with the College’s moral code. Cecil’s legend and story lives 100 years on. Cecil was a man of honour and respect, his strong and gracious character overshadowed all else. His story is a reminder of values that are important and that sticking to them is imperative. As our values only begin to mean something when we stick to them. This is what being a Terrace Gentleman is. Cecil inspires selfless action and is an inspiring guide for all Terrace Gentlemen on their chosen pathway in academic, cultural or sporting pursuits. You can be a champion without coming first. 

All in!