Without question, house spirit was in full display on Wednesday 5 February 2025 when our Years 7 to 12 students participated in the House Swimming Carnival at Croydon Memorial Pool. With perfect weather and a fantastic turnout of house colours, the event was a wonderful celebration of participation, spirit and friendly competition.
Nathan Bower, our Senior Head of Sports Strategy, Programs and Pathways, addressed students at the conclusion of the day and celebrated their active participation:
“Whether you finished first, second, third, or fourth, every effort you made played a vital role in your House’s success. What truly matters is that you gave it your all, supported your teammates, and celebrated the spirit of your House with passion and enthusiasm. Your participation is what makes this day so special, and each of you should be proud of the energy you brought to the competition.”
Students proudly wore their House colours and engaged in a variety of exciting events, beyond just the swimming strokes, such as Water Volleyball, the Continuous House Race, and House Chants. We are thrilled to announce that Paterson House emerged as the overall winner. Congratulations to Paterson!
Alex Wilson, our Senior School House Coordinator, praised the exceptional House spirit shown by the students:
“The energy and enthusiasm you brought today truly embodied the heart of House spirit. It wasn’t just about competing—it was about lifting each other up, supporting your teammates, and showing pride in your House. The sense of unity and camaraderie you displayed was nothing short of inspiring, and it made this event unforgettable.”
In the swimming competition, Paterson narrowly defeated Chisholm for first place by a mere 40 points! Chisholm claimed the House Spirit Award, and both Chisholm and Paterson tied for the Best Chanting title. Lawrence House triumphed in the Continuous Race, securing victory by just one point! The Principal’s Choice Chant Award was presented to Chisholm.
Alongside the team competition, several students were honoured for their exceptional individual performances as Age Group Champions. These athletes displayed remarkable skill and determination, and we eagerly anticipate seeing many of them represent our school at the upcoming EISM Divisional Carnival.
At the end of the day, Paterson House emerged as the overall winner, taking home the coveted House Swimming Trophy. Congratulations to Paterson! Paterson House Captains Maedy McLean and Jackson Chandra addressed their fellow students, sharing heartfelt words of thanks and encouragement:
“Firstly, congratulations to Paterson – it’s been a great day and we’re all really proud of you for your participation. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the day, from Mr Wilson to Mr Bower, and the prefects to the students – it was great to see you all there, in the pool and seeing so much house spirit. To our fellow students – keep up this participation for our upcoming House Athletics Day, that will be key! Thanks everyone!”
The House Swimming Carnival was a vibrant display of the students’ enthusiasm, camaraderie, and unwavering House spirit. With perfect weather and an incredible turnout of house spirit, the event truly captured the essence of community, the importance of participation and friendly competition. It was a memorable day that set the tone for the year ahead!
And as a bonus, our Year 12 students celebrated their final House Swimming event with a special fashion parade:
