Dorm-tutor, IRP English teacher and coach intern

Judah Word has arrived from Los Angeles ahead of his 2020 rugby adventure. As an extension of St. Bede's connection with ICEF (Inner City Education Foundation of Los Angeles) we have been able to create an opportunity for a very capable young man to join our system. Judah will work as a Boarding House tutor, the IRP English teacher and will be assistant coach in the U16B rugby team.

Judah comments on his rugby background as follows: "I began my rugby endeavours at the age of 14 under the tutelage of Stuart Krohn, David Hughes, Laloa Milford, all of whom are amazing coaches and mentors in their own right. I began at tighthead prop and eventually transitioned into tighthead lock. I fell in love with the position and the style of play that my coaches had me adopt."

He explains his educational and work background, saying, "I attended the University of California - San Diego, which is known as a high intensity research-oriented university. I played rugby while studying History, with a focus on History of Science / Bioethics. After graduation I left the States to teach English in Shanghai for about two years, which was an enjoyable and memorable ordeal for all sorts of reasons."

When asked about his goals here in Christchurch he said, "What I hope to achieve is to instill humility, camaraderie, and a healthy degree of confidence in the young men in my charge. I hope that they transfer skills from our great game of rugby to their everyday lives."

Judah is impressed with us so far, saying, "Although I’ve encountered Kiwis before, I am still humbled and amazed by your kindness as a people. I truly think that if we were friendlier in Los Angeles maybe we’d be a more convivial people, but we aren’t as naturally open and warm as New Zealanders, so please do forgive me if I seem sheepish to start with." 

Let's welcome Judah into the St. Bede's community and make the year he spends with us something that he will treasure for life.