Beyond the Sports Field

Now I don’t want to alarm anyone, but I’m going to be talking about cricket. I know, I know. You can pick your jaw up off the floor now. 

I’ve always found cricket to be a wonderful source of inspiration for many aspects of life. I grew up with a love for the game, right from the moment I could pick up a bat. My ego was nurtured due to the fact I could carry out the unnatural movement of one’s body to bowl a cricket ball. I found enjoyment in the technicalities of batting, as I strung up a cork ball to my Hills Hoist. I even loved fielding! I wasn’t the kid begging for a bat or a bowl, I genuinely loved working on my fielding (hence the name ‘Jonty’ for those in the know).

Despite any apparent physical skillset, cricket however, is a mental game. There can be little success without self-efficacy. Allow me to quote one of my childhood heroes: "Cricket is a game that obviously requires talent, but when talent is equal, as it so often is, the formula for success comes from strength of mind.'" Steve Waugh

I have lived much of my life with an idea in mind – greatness, whether on the sporting field or not, comes from strength of mind, heart, and soul. One’s character. 

So, I find myself on the oval believing I can make a difference in the lives of our children. As age takes its toll on my cricketing body, I find what I have left is my cricketer’s mind. Success in terms of medals, prizes and adulation can be nice, but my hopes and prayers are that our students find comfort in their own skin. I find purpose in nurturing self-belief, in building character that will last for eternity. 

My definition of ‘greatness’ as Waugh put it, or success, therefore extends beyond the sports field, and rather into the hope of eternity for our children. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Mr Johnny Edwards

Primary Sport Coordinator