SPORT

Hello Tokyo

It was a case of better late than never for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Held a year later than planned because of the COVID-19 pandemic, on 23 July, 11,417 athletes from around the world finally had the chance to compete and become a medal-winning Olympian.

Among Australia’s team were three Haileyburians vying for a place on an Olympic podium.

David Powell, Deputy Head of Mathematics (Year 7 & 8) and Head of Table Tennis at Haileybury City, advanced to the second round of the Men’s Singles Table Tennis but was then defeated by Yang Wang, of Slovakia.

“I tried not to have too many expectations heading into the Games because we come up against some of the best countries and best athletes in the world. I knew this would likely be my last Olympic Games, so I wanted to enjoy myself!” says David. “To simply be part of the Olympic movement is a proud moment for any athlete. The Olympic Games bring thousands of athletes together from across the world and it’s a humbling experience to play a small part in that. Hopefully I can inspire future generations to work hard and follow their dreams of representing Australia on the biggest sporting stage.”

Laetisha Scanlan, a Haileybury graduate of 2007, finished fourth in the Women’s Trap Shooting final and seventh in the Mixed Team Trap.

“There was a definite sigh of relief when getting on the plane to Tokyo. I was so excited to compete again and to experience another Olympic Games. I competed in Rio in 2016 and placed fifth then, so if the trend continues, I should medal in Paris!” says Laetisha.

Amy Lawton (OH 2019)

“I think the standout moment for me was that Japan was able to run the biggest multi-sport event in the world during a pandemic. It is a huge credit to their country.”

Thinking back to her sporting days at Haileybury, Laetisha always felt supported.

“Even though Clay Target Shooting isn’t a mainstream school sport, I always felt encouraged to pursue my goals and dreams,” she says.

Amy Lawton, from the graduating class of 2019, arrived in Tokyo with the talented and competitive Hockeyroos. They were undefeated until a quarter-final loss to India ended their medal hopes.

“I remember the moment when we lost our quarter-final game. The feeling of being eliminated for a medal chance was absolutely devastating and left me feeling as if it wasn’t real—it wasn’t how our campaign was supposed to end. But as much as myself and my teammates were so upset, I also felt so connected with them,” says Amy.

“Doing Sport at Haileybury continuously reminded me how enjoyable it can be. As much as the early Saturday mornings were tiring, they encouraged me to go out and have fun with my mates across year levels. That’s something I now miss every weekend.”

On the ball

The students who are part of the Haileybury Cricket Program today are following in the footsteps of some illustrious company. Fast bowler James Pattinson and left-arm orthodox spinner Jon Holland have both worn the ‘baggy green’ and they also played cricket for Haileybury.

James and Jon have both represented Australia and their home state of Victoria— but before that they were showing off their talents on the pitches at Haileybury.

For generations, the Haileybury Cricket Program has had a knack for spotting talent and developing it further. Among the current crop of potential stars is Year 10 student Zac Grech, who has been picked for the 2021/2022 Vic Metro Under-17 squad. He was also recently announced in the Cricket Australia Indoor Cricket 21 and Under Men’s summer training squad.

The Girls Cricket Program is also scoring runs with Katherine Dekel (Year 10) being selected for the 2021/2022 Vic Metro Under-16 squad.

“Three years ago, we had 18 players and next season we will have 45 players across four teams —it’s amazing how quickly we’ve grown,” says Girls Cricket Coach Cameron Davidson.

“The Girls Senior Team remains undefeated for the third consecutive year which is a huge achievement. There are many girls whose cricketing ability transcends Haileybury who have been playing in Premier competitions for many years. I encourage all our cricketers to keep working hard and enjoying cricket. It’s a tremendously frustrating game—but one that rewards hard work and determination.”

The Boys Cricket Program continues to produce players who take handling a bat and ball to a whole new level. Year 12 students Reiley Mark and Raheel Bostan were named in the 2021/2022 Vic Country Under-19 squad, along with Shobit Singh. Shobit graduated from Haileybury in 2020 and was 2019/2020 Haileybury First XI Cricket Captain.

“There were over 240 boys who played cricket for Haileybury in the 2020/2021 season. These are phenomenal numbers and it is so pleasing to see young people passionate about the sport and representing their school,” says Head of Cricket Brent Ritchie.

“There are many moving parts to Haileybury Cricket but what makes it such a special community to be a part of is the fact that many quality people work together to create the most enjoyable and rewarding experiences possible.”