The HBHS Sports Committee, from left, Thomas Burt, Quinn Boyle, William Milne, Captain of Sports and leader of the Sports Committee, Tama Hodgson, Oliver Mathis, Tom McCarthy, and Kurtis Hana. Absent, Charlie Moon.

Photo by Oliver Mathis

Meet the Sports Committee! ⚽ 🏀 🏉 🏏

Tama Hodgson & the 2023 Sports Committee — April 5th, 2023

Meet our multi-talented, multi-equipped Sports Committee for 2023...

Captain of Sport for 2023, Tama Hodgson, reports on the year at the Senior Sports Awards Evening:

It is a great privilege for me, Tama Hodgson, to stand before you as the Sports Captain of HBHS. Tonight, we gather to celebrate the achievements of our outstanding athletes and to express our gratitude to some remarkable individuals who have made this journey possible.

I would like to start with a little bit about me. My journey at HBHS began in 2021 when I arrived as a Year 11 student, not entirely sure what to expect. What I did know was that this school was renowned as one of the best in the world for rugby and sports. My singular goal in coming here was to earn a place in the 1st XV Rugby team. Little did I know that this journey would offer so much more than I initially imagined. Throughout my time here, I have not only achieved my dream of playing for the 1st XV but also forged lifelong friendships and gained experiences I never thought possible. Being a member of the Top 6 has been an incredible experience, filled with invaluable life lessons and personal growth. The opportunity to travel overseas and represent our school while doing what I love on the rugby field is a privilege I hold close to my heart. I can say with certainty that these opportunities and experiences would have remained dreams without the unwavering support and environment provided by this exceptional school.

The year of 2023 has been a remarkable one, filled with personal growth and valuable experiences. As the Sports Committee we were responsible for continuing and creating sports events.This year, we continued the boot drive initiated last year. We also organised the much-anticipated Dio versus HBHS netball game and the Staff versus Prefects games, fostering a sense of camaraderie among students and teachers alike. In addition, we scheduled an exciting bench press competition. These initiatives have not only added to the vibrant sports culture at our school but have also taught us valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and organisation. This year has indeed been challenging, but the amount of responsibility we've been entrusted with has provided us with life experience that will serve us well in the future.

First and foremost, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our retiring Headmaster, Mrs Hassall, for her remarkable service to our school for the past 25 years. Your dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of our institution have left a lasting mark on our hearts. Your legacy will be felt for generations to come, and we are immensely grateful for your service and the culture and values that you have instilled in us.

I would also like to take a moment to express my gratitude to my parents, who provided me with the opportunity to move from Australia to attend HBHS. Your support and belief in my potential have been instrumental in my journey here, and I will forever be grateful for the chance to be part of this incredible community.

Tonight, I want to give special recognition to the Sports Committee, a group of dedicated individuals who have played a pivotal role in promoting sports within the school and organising events to strengthen the sporting culture. Will, Oli, Tom, Thomas, Charlie, Kurtis, and Quinn, your hard work, commitment and leadership as a prefect and as athletes representing the crest have been truly commendable. You have not only been my teammates but also my friends and mentors, and I am proud to have had the privilege to work alongside each and every one of you.

In my three years at HBHS, I have had the immense privilege of being guided by two exceptional coaches, Mr Hotham and Mr Kirkham. Your leadership, knowledge, and unwavering support have been instrumental in my growth as an athlete and as a person. You have not only taught me the technical aspects of rugby but also the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. I am deeply grateful for the lessons you have imparted and for the opportunity to play for your team.

Additionally, I want to express my appreciation for Mr McKenzie, our Director of Sports, for his continuous support throughout the year. Your guidance has been invaluable in navigating the challenges that come with the role of Sports Captain. I know it can’t be easy doing what you do and I want to thank you for your leadership.

As we gather here to celebrate the achievements of our athletes and the contributions of these remarkable individuals, let us remember the importance of unity and the spirit of sports that runs deep within our school community. Sports are not just about competition; they are about building character, forging friendships, and creating lasting memories.

In closing, I would like to thank each and every one of you for being part of this wonderful evening. Let us continue to support and encourage our athletes as they strive for excellence, and let us carry forward the legacy of Mrs Hassall as we look ahead to a bright and promising future. I wish you all a pleasant evening, filled with joy, celebration, and the spirit of camaraderie that makes our school community so special.