Sports stars inspire student-athletes
Sports stars took time out of their busy schedules to visit St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School’s High Performance Program (HPP) students during the annual Seminar Day.
Organised by program coordinator, Scott Armour, HPP students in Years 7 to 12 across the St Paul’s Warragul and Traralgon campuses were fortunate to hear from four presenters: Hana Basic (Australian track athlete – sprinter), Ben McKay (AFL footballer), Jaimee Fourlis (Australian tennis player) and Sam Bramham (Australian Paralympic gold medallist swimmer).
Students were eager to hear from each guest about their experiences in sport and how they balanced their education with their early professional careers. A particularly relatable perspective came from St Paul’s Class of 2015 alumnus, Ben McKay, who was supported by the St Paul’s Elite Sports Performers Program branch of HPP to balance both school and sport. Ben spoke about being in the same position current HPP students find themselves in today, balancing hours of training with schoolwork. Now, playing with the Essendon Football Club, he encouraged students to believe that they too, can achieve their goals.
After their presentation, the guests stayed on to answer further questions and chat with the students, also posing for photos that are sure to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Students can personalise their educational experience with the High Performance Program, which caters to secondary students who are competing at an advanced level in their chosen sport. Teachers provide additional guidance and flexibility, ensuring that students can thrive by balancing their studies and sporting commitments.