Our championship winning 1st XV

Meet the 2022 Sports Committee!

Payton Spencer — October 30th, 2022

Captain of Sports and Leader of the Sports Committee, Payton Spencer, takes us through the triumphs and tribulations of HBHS Sport in 2022 with his address at the HBHS Sports Awards.

My name is Payton Spencer and it is my honour and privilege to stand before you all as your Captain of Sports for 2022. I want to acknowledge those who have come before me and those who will fill my shoes in years to come.

We have had, by all accounts, a somewhat normal year and there was a sense of calm as we embarked on what looked like a year where, dare I say it, the word “COVID” was diminishing and we were starting to feel as though we were back on track. Many events that had been previously cancelled were being scheduled and it looked as though we were in for a busy year ahead. This meant my Committee and I were very busy organising and preparing for what was a full calendar of events in 2022.

I want to sincerely congratulate those of you who are sitting here today, hopeful of being recognised in your chosen field. These awards are a combination of hard mahi and hours of endless training and perfecting and critiquing your sport. I have sat where you sit and I know what that nervous anticipation feels like. Enjoy these moments, they are a reflection of what you have achieved and also a challenge of what lies ahead. For tonight enjoy the moment, smile for the photos, as tomorrow you begin your next journey. I would, at this stage, like to acknowledge the immense support of coaches and staff who have given up endless hours to help you achieve your goals.

A little about me. From an early age I have had a ball in my hand, and have always relished the competition that came with it, be it cricket, rugby, or soccer. I love the challenge and figuring out how to be better than yesterday.

I have moved many times and have lived in two other countries and throughout all the upheaval my love of sports never wavered. I am so thankful that my journey resulted in my attending Hamilton Boys' High School and a new story began. There is a sense of pride and mana here, it brings out the best in us and as you rise to each challenge, a new one presents itself. Yes we are called the factory, but there is a sense of brotherhood like no other. In the words of the legendary Michael Jordan, ` "talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence wins championships."

I have had so many opportunities to better myself, and to push myself when I wasn't sure I could. I have grown as an athlete, but, most importantly, as a young man who is now comfortable to address a full school assembly and here this evening. As Captain of Sports we have organised and overseen many initiatives such as the boot drive where we ask students to donate their used boots and in return parents and caregivers can purchase these boots with a gold coin donation. In addition basketball and volleyball games versus teachers were well attended and highly competitive!

Lastly there are people I need to say thank you to who have been on this epic journey with me. I would like to thank Mr McKenzie for his guidance during my tenure as Sports Captain and kicking me up the backside when I needed it.

Thank you to our Headmaster Mrs Hassall for her unwavering support and encouragement. Pacing up and down that rugby field can't be easy!

Thank you to Mr Hotham, Mr Kirkham, and Mr Asplin for gently guiding, pushing and enabling me to be the sportsman that I am. Not going to lie, those training sessions were intense.

Thank you to Paul, my physio, who has spent endless hours treating, taping and keeping me together, literally.

Thank you to Mr Power for the epic basketball matches. I'm happy to play anytime again soon.

Someone who has been by my side for years is Mr Kuggeleijn. Where do I begin? You selected me early, I made mistakes but I learnt, you persevered and I grew. You picked me up, literally, because I was too young to drive, you bestowed upon me your knowledge and your love and passion for cricket and for self empowerment, and I cannot thank you enough. You mean a lot to me and I will forever be grateful for your patience and guidance as I navigated my successes and failures.

To my teachers, thank you. As an active student I can't do it without your patience, compassion and support of my sporting endeavours.

My fellow committee members, it has been a pleasure working with you.

To my family, I thank you, the endless meals, pep talks and constant support and gentle pushing….maybe not so gentle!! You are always there for me. Dad, I am so proud to call you my dad and I have enjoyed admiring your success as an athlete. I hope I can make you proud as you now watch my path as an athlete. Mum, I know we don't always see eye to eye, but I can't thank you enough for all your sacrifices and time. It's fair to say that I wouldn't be here where I am today without you.

To finish, in the words of Steph Curry “Be the best version of yourself in anything you do. You don’t have to live anybody else’s story.“

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