On Friday 1 September, the college hosted its annual Father’s Day breakfast, with guest speaker two time Olympian and basketball legend Chris Anstey.
Welcomed by Principal Mrs Jacqui Layfield, around 200 parents and students gathered on our stadium steps to hear stories about Chris’s time in the NBL and NBA, including a career highlight playing as a rookie against Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippin and Dennis Rodman.
Chris started out as a dominant junior tennis player alongside good friend Essendon superstar Dustin Fletcher, before both taking a detour, aged 16. Chris shared some memorable messages with our parents and students including the importance of giving things a go, saying yes instead of no and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone (because you never know the opportunity that awaits). He talked about his own role as a parent and the importance of being your child’s supporter and champion, not their coach (unless that’s your job!).
Following Chris’s speech, guests enjoyed barista made hot drinks and a range of delicious breakfast treats, and an opportunity to chat with Chris, grab a photo and autograph. Afterwards Chris conducted a workshop with our ASPIRE students. The Advanced Support Program and Individual Recognition of Excellence (ASPIRE) is designed to identify, support and recognise students who are pursuing performance excellence in the fields of Performing Arts or Sport. It was a great session, with plenty of interaction and conversation.
Thank you to our Year 9 students Alexis, Ava, Cate, Emmy, Lisa, Sarah, Sarah and Ruby (pictured with Chris below) who are currently undertaking the Innovating for a Creative Future elective for their assistance in serving food and taking coffee orders, ably guided by baristas and college alumni Rachel and Abbey. It was a great opportunity for these students, their hard work, smiling faces and enthusiasm evident from the minute they arrived.
It was a great opportunity to welcome our dads and special people onto campus.
Wishing all our fathers a very Happy Father’s Day.
