Water Boys: St Andrew's Victories Make a Splash
Many visitors and prospective families to the School find it difficult to fathom just how our students excel at sport within the apparent confines of Sydney’s CBD. The remarkable achievements of Matthew Levy, a 22 year old Paralympian and Old Andrean, are indicative of the role that our student’s resourcefulness and hard work plays in their numerous successes.
What St Andrew’s may lack in on the spot sporting facilities, is overcompensated for by an unshakeable spirit of determination.
Matthew, who has cerebral palsy and is vision impaired, broke three world records at the Australian short-course swimming titles last week and is set to travel to the World Championships in December. On Saturday 22nd August he featured in Peter Fitzsimons’ 'Team of the Week' in the Herald 'Fitz Files'; quite an achievement for the emerging athlete. Whilst still in school he broke the 200m freestyle short course world record and competed in the 2004 Athens Paralympics.
Acting Head of School, Mr. Graeme Kightley, couldn’t be prouder.
“Matthew and many other individuals provide the example for others to follow as they strive to do their very best each time they train or play. His is not a team sport, although the resilience that he shows, to not only overcome but to excel, is inspiring and helps lift the whole school.”
The recent Grand Final victory of our Junior Boys Water Polo team, winning 5 to 3 in extra time, continues to show how St Andrew’s students are far from limited by their cosmopolitan city surrounds. Their triumph is the culmination of over three years of committed training and perseverance by students and their coach Kate Sharpe.
“Our players come from all over Sydney, some as far away as Campbelltown; our Coach from Kurnell,” Mr. Kightley today remarked.
“Their commitment to one another and to the “blue and white”, as well as the support of their parents, is the key ingredient to their ultimate success”.
Not too bad for a school without a pool.
