CO-CURRICULAR 200 ST PATRICK’S COLLEGE STRATHFIELD LUMEN 2024 RUGBY CAPTAIN Memories of playing rugby with my mates are easily the happiest times of my life over the past eight years at the College. From the first time you play on Breen Oval or chant the war cry, the fact that you are doing it with your mates for the pride of your school leaves an indelible mark on your heart. Being able to don the black jersey is a privilege that connects each player to a long, proud lineage spanning nearly 100 years. Wearing the black jersey, you are keenly aware that you are not only representing yourself, the College, and your family, but also all those players who wore it before you. This is simultaneously a tremendous honour and a great burden of responsibility, one you strive to do justice to. Riding high off the back of a gritty 2023 season where the First XV achieved beyond expectations and embraced our traditional role as ISA underdogs, hopes were high that we would ride that same wave into the 2024 season. Early success in the muchanticipated local derby trial grudge match against Trinity further fuelled our determination. We hoped to build on that decisive win, where the boys came together to overpower our fierce local rivals. Since the conclusion of the competition, it has been said many times... this was not the season we wanted. The results belie the blood, sweat, and tears we put into training and the bonds of brotherhood we forged in what turned out to be a season of adversity. Despite this, the boys never gave up on each other. To the Year 12s who have finished their rugby careers at St Pat’s, I have loved playing alongside you. The camaraderie and friendship we have shared as classmates and teammates over the past eight years is something we will hold dear forever. The solid success of the 13As is promising for the talent depth within the grades, indicating a positive future for the First XV. We cannot thank the coaching staff enough for their unwavering commitment and dedication to supporting us over the season. Our heartfelt thanks go to Mr Fox and Mr Mafu, who tirelessly worked to instil their knowledge and expertise, helping us develop as players and people. Special thanks to Mr Tatola, who was a constant support behind the scenes and is working to strengthen our younger grades, building a bright future for SPC Rugby. Alex Conti Rugby Captain First XV Vs. Sydney Grammar
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