I have heard lots of stories about the McEvedy Shield and the day itself.

The superb efforts of the athletes have often been overshadowed by poor behaviour from students and spectators, before the event, during the event and after the event. Last year, because of Covid, the event was held without spectators. Fortunately, this year 750 students from each of the four participating schools were able to watch the event. We took our Year 13s and Year 9s: the Year 13s because they had never been to a McKevedy, and our Year 9s because I think it is important for them to experience a strong feeling of school spirit.

I have complete faith in our boys. I told the Year 13s to lead us forward, to take care of the Year 9s that were with us and take care of staff. They did not let me or you down. They were tremendous. They were everything that I knew they were: mature, respectful, encouraging and connected. The behaviour before, during and after the event was outstanding, and it was a special day for us all. Boys, it was special because you made it special. Thank you to our future leaders, our Year 9s and our brilliant Year 13s.

The day was hosted superbly by St. Pats Town Rector Mr Savali and his staff. Mr Tinkle, our Director of Athletics, who is a staff member, old boy and past McEvedy Shield superstar athlete, had our team firing. Our athletics coaches had dotted every i and crossed every t. Thank you all for your time and commitment to our boys. The teams were triumphant and sealed our 8th win in a row. Doing that at the 100th McEvedy was truly special. You created history with your effort that day boys, and I can't thank you enough for being class acts on the day. You won with humility and accepted defeat with grace.

I want to acknowledge all the athletes from St. Pats Silverstream, Rongotai and St. Pats Town, all of whom did their schools proud and were champions on the day.

Blessings and thanks to our awesome staff who made the day so successful. It's a long day on your feet and you made it so enjoyable for our boys, encouraging them and highlighting the great things they were doing, both on the track and on the sidelines. Your never-ending positivity was inspirational. Thank you for making the day so memorable for us all.

A new narrative was created on the 7th of March 2023 at Newtown Stadium. A benchmark was set. We now have something to live up to in the coming years, in every respect. Humility, grace, manaakitanga, aroha, effort and a spirit of giving your best. These attributes will be our hallmark at this and every event we attend.

Heartfelt thanks to you all. 

Glen Denham
Headmaster