Brooke Callon - Sports Prefect

Prior to attending St Hilda’s, I was at Kaikorai Primary and then Balmacewen Intermediate - both of which I loved! But when the time came around, I faced what seemed like the biggest decision of my life; Would I wear the bright blue or the green blazer for the next 5 years? It’s fair to say that after touring both schools it was no longer a decision for me - St Hilda’s was where I wanted to go.

St Hilda’s has provided me with numerous opportunities across several fields. As much as I’ve enjoyed my time on site, the best highlights are always the trips away representing the school. I’ve been fortunate to be involved in regional, national and international excursions. In 2018 I visited Japan on a cultural trip with around 20 St Hilda’s girls. This was a life-changing experience and something I feel extremely grateful to have experienced given the state of the world today.

Another highlight has to be tournaments. There's nothing more fulfilling than creating a tight-knit between like-minded people who are all striving for success. I’m grateful for the opportunities that St Hilda’s has given me to travel throughout the South and North Islands, facing some of the best competition the country has to offer. While concentrating most of my time on netball and basketball, I’ve also dabbled in tennis, volleyball, handball, and water polo.

Something I think that makes St Hilda’s special is the size. It’s big enough that there’s something for all, but also small enough that you know just about everyone. I can confidently say that when I walk out of the arch for the last time, I’ll be heading out with lifelong friends. I think this is what helps to create the sisterhood bond that is so distinctive in our community.

With the end of the year creeping closer, I am thankful to have had the role of sports prefect throughout 2021. It has taught me to be selfless through service and to look at the bigger picture. Small gestures can make a big difference to someone's day. We’ve run fitness and yoga classes as well as started a lunch-time walking group through the summer terms. These initiatives have allowed me to mix with students with whom I may not have otherwise crossed paths. I also have to give a shout out to my partner in crime - the other Brooke - for supporting me through the role. It’s been great to bounce ideas off each other and have someone so similar to work alongside and I’m looking forward to finishing off Term 4 the same way.

Now for the dreaded question every Year 13 faces… What are your plans for next year?

I’m one of the ones who has an answer. In 2020 I’ll be studying a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Information Science here at the University of Otago. I’m thoroughly looking forward to this, as I feel St Hilda’s has equipped me with the tools I need to go out into the big wide world. Although I’ll miss the comfort that the four walls of the school provide, I am excited for this next step.