Captains' Corner | Vice Captain, Noah Stevens
During the Term 2 break, a number of boys found themselves busy, as if the term was still going - assignments, study, sport camps and clinics happening every day. There is always an easy option in the holidays to switch off, stay at home and, for me, lounge around and play games all day. But this holidays was distinctly different.
After spending nearly all of Term 2 training, some boys came into the break exhausted and in need of rest. Members of the 1st XV squad, Oliver Nash and Harry Walters suffered early injuries in the preseason with Oliver recently pulling his hamstring after only just returning from a shoulder injury. These boys have been through the wringer. But despite injuries, these two men have been some of the most hardworking, vocal and supportive players of the squad. Oliver had a huge preseason with a distinct drive for the Firsts this year. He trained hard, continuing to use gym as rehab as well as strengthen as much as possible. Every session he would be there early, rolling out or talking to gym staff about possible workouts. Even after doing his second injury, he has worked even harder, with nearly perfect attendance and finding odd jobs and learning to do while not participating in field sessions, to ensure he is ready for a shorter and more intense GPS season. Harry Walters has followed this same path, continuing to train as much as physically possible to prepare himself for the return to the season. One of the leaders of the squad, Harry has organised the team with off field commitments and communication after sessions, whilst always finding time to have a laugh.
These two men are just a couple of examples of the many boys who, despite setbacks, recently have continued to strive for success. Hopefully crowds can soon return to Tennyson, and young fellas will be able to look out for Olly and Harry in the back line this year. It will be a site to see! Particularly for me, these two men, and so many more, have been inspirational in getting back into this term. With new, and better habits, hopefully we can all take their lessons of resilience into the final half of this year, especially for seniors going into external exams. Also a big thank you to all the parents who continue to guide our resilience in school.
Finally good luck to all teams this week. Sadly there are no crowds, but the whole GT community is with you. Don't forget to show your red and black support this Friday, with a very special Red and Black day at Terrace, and a gold coin for education in Timor Leste.