Principal News
Dear Parents and Carers,
If you are like me and enjoy almost any sporting event that is available to watch, you might have found yourself up early over the last few weeks cheering on Australia (or others) in the multitude of events at the Paris Olympic Games. It was fantastic to see 53 medals won by Australians who all achieved to their potential or close to their potential when it mattered the most to them.
However, there were even more athletes who attended the Olympics and didn't achieve as they had hoped. How many things have to go right to win that medal? Forget the four years of training and preparation, how many things have to go right in the week leading up to competition? Is it more mental or physical? Cath Bishop (Olympic Silver Medalist) recently published an article looking at how athletes peak for their big day. She communicated 5 key points:
1. Focus on the present - concentrate on the session you're in and don't worry about the one ahead of time. Daily mindfulness activities can help to stay grounded as well as self compassion to accept that you are human and you will make mistakes.
2. Hold on to perspective - understand that your sport is important, however the sun will come up, the world will keep turning and you'll still be that human being that you have always been. Sticking to established routines can help with this.
3. Control the controllables - You can't influence what your competitors are doing.
4. Connect to others - You're not alone in this journey, so reach our for help when you need it.
5. Tell your own story - You don't need to be the next Usaine Bolt or Michael Jordan. Rather, what would you rather be remembered for when the nerves kick in, when the pressure ramps up, when luck goes the other way or when your teammates need you to stand up?
At SSPS, we are currently prioritising wellbeing initiatives for students and staff and don't these 5 key messages fit perfectly in that space? Several of our Mercy Values, Learner Qualities and key messages are also indirectly mentioned above.
The article certainly raised some interesting questions for myself as an adult who works in the business of educating children and is also a parent. Do we help our young people focus on the present and stay grounded? How do we help them understand that mistakes are inevitable and are worthwhile if we learn from them? Do we encourage them to reach out for help when they need it? When there is assessment or other potentially pressure situation coming up, do we teach them how to manage their stress?
Who knows, potentially some future olympians walking the corridors of SSPS in 2024. Very happy to hear your feedback. sam.hannant@twb.catholic.edu.au
Enjoy your weekend.
Sam Hannant