The winter sport season is greatly anticipated at King’s, with our boys competing in the Athletic Association of the Great Public Schools (AAGPS) competitions across Rugby, Football, Volleyball, Snowsports and Cross Country.
Captains are chosen by the Masters in Charge (MIC) in consultation with the Head Coach and Director of Sport to lead each of the teams and sports into the season. These boys are chosen for how they model the values of the School, particularly in character and leadership qualities.
We took the opportunity to interview a few of the captains to hear what they look forward to most this winter sport season, their goals as leaders and how they define effective leadership.
To lead the Rugby program this season, Year 12 student Isaac was chosen by MIC Mr Jay Tregonning.
“A good captain demonstrates leadership and acts as a role model for the younger grades. I believe how you act off the field plays the biggest part because that’s how people see your authentic character as a leader”, says Isaac.
Reflecting on his goal for the Rugby program this season, he shares, “In the Opens, the overall goal is to get the triple crown across the Ones, Twos and Threes” (1st, 2nd and 3rd XV).
The Captain of Football this year is Jack in Year 12, chosen by the Director of Football, Mr David O’Keefe and the coach of the King’s 1st XI Football Team.
Jack says, “It’s great getting the boys all together and leading the training sessions. I really enjoy motivating them with captain talks and encouraging them all.”
“I’m most looking forward to playing all the Saturday games and to win the Premiership, which would be a huge achievement for the Football program at King’s.”
He emphasises the importance of leading by example, as it can have a significant impact on team morale. “If you’re on your game, everyone will be on their game. But if you have a bad attitude, everyone’s going to have a bad attitude because they’re looking to you.”
Suhas in Year 12 was selected as Captain of Volleyball by MIC Bobby Gange, with Daniel as Vice-Captain (Year 12).
“Everytime I see the younger boys play, I’m reminded of why we do this. They’re the proof this program is improving season by season” reflects Suhas.
“When we step onto that court, our aim is to leave the jersey and King’s crest in a better position than we found it.”
For Snowsports, Edward in Year 12 was selected as Captain by MIC Mrs Mandy Burley, along with Pierce as Vice-Captain (Year 12).
“This year, I think the biggest goal for the Snowsports team is to win as many championships as we can” says Edward.
“Leading by example is the biggest piece of advice I’d give anyone in a leadership position. Don’t make anyone else do something you wouldn’t do.”
Leading Cross Country this year is Tom in Year 12, selected by MIC Mr Ben Gavan, alongside Oscar and Aidan as Vice-Captains (both Year 12).
Tom shares, “It’s a sport that shows true character while on the course. You’re alone and those decisions really reflect who you are. Being able to encourage people to make good decisions is what shows strong character.”
“That flows into having strong teamwork: if you have good chemistry, you’re going to run well for each other.”
As the winter sport season unfolds, we extend our best wishes to all teams for continued success, spirited competition and memorable moments on and off the field. While the captains lead with distinction, we also recognise the important role every student plays in shaping the culture of sportsmanship and leadership at The King’s School.
As we head into the final stanza of the winter season in Term 3, may the boys continue to foster not only athletic excellence but also the growth of character, teamwork and integrity in every boy who wears the Sky Blue and White.