The 2023 Chronicle

in various societies and academic accolades, including a Mathematics Olympiad semi-finalist title, embody the scholarly spirit. Tlhogi’s artistic flair has been recognised with half-colours in dramatic arts, and his sportsmanship is equally commendable. Dylan’s culinary expertise and service contributions align with the Block’s ethos of giving back. Alex’s musical achievements and leadership in soccer and basketball set a high bar for his peers. Maka, the House prefect, excels in sports and academics, demonstrating the Block’s versatility. Chris’s achievements in hockey and golf, along with his musical contributions, highlight the diverse talents within the Block. Lastly, Reece’s prowess in water polo and Akhona’s impressive rugby performances underscore the B Block’s athletic excellence. Pathfinders of Progress (A Block). The trailblazers of A Block. As our group for the 2023 matric year is about to step beyond the gates, we acknowledge the journey that has been made. Arriving in McCormick in 2020 from all different houses (Otsi and Samora from Tatham, Ona and Liam from Pascoe, myself from East, Nic and Erich from Mackenzie, Kofi from West and Jaden from Founders, thrown together with the new arrivals of Brad, Jason and Anesu), we made it our mission to contribute to a House that is progressive and where each individual feels noticed and accepted. Now we have a thriving house with a group of matrics that performed fantastically in all spheres of the holistic education that Michaelhouse offers: J1, our future Liverpool keeper; Otsi, a future Springbok playing for our country; I can’t wait for the day when I turn on the radio and hear: “This is the Top 40 SA No 1, Brad de Klerk”; Tibs, a top future Wall Street analyst; Erich, a future St Michael’s Award winner for his constant and unwavering support of those around him; Melon and Chase are Michaelhouse’s first future Nobel Peace Prize winners; Kofi and Nic are our future Ivy League alumni. As we reflect on our transformative journey through Michaelhouse, we must acknowledge the invaluable guidance and nurturing care provided by Ms Moffat, Mr Gruijters and Mrs Baillie. These remarkable individuals have been more than educators; they have been pillars of support, guiding us through our formative years. Mrs Baillie’s warm presence and the simple yet meaningful gesture of offering a cookie as we passed her office have added comfort and homeliness to our daily lives. Her kindness has not gone unnoticed and has often been a source of encouragement. Mr Gruijters’s wise counsel in resolving conflicts among us has been indispensable. His ability to provide essential advice has helped us navigate the complexities of growing up, teaching us valuable life lessons in understanding and empathy. Ms Moffat has been a mother away from home, present during our most crucial moments. Her blend of wisdom, fairness and kindness has transformed McCormick into more than just a residence; it has become a home. Her role as a parental figure has deeply impacted many of us, providing a sense of security and belonging. McCormick is more than just a residence; it’s a home where dreams are nurtured, talents are honed, and futures are forged. As we step out into the world, we carry the lessons learned and the bonds formed within these walls. McCormick, indeed, is where we learned to soar. SALVETE: Anathi Getyengana, Jaydon Jubber, Ethan Kruger, Zhengfei Li, Amo Mphaka, Connor Pattenden, Daniel Pieterse, Nathi Radebe, Nicholas Rencken, Oliver Thompson, Calum van Zyl, Leo Watson VALETE: Jaden Adam, Samora Apaa, Theo Apteker, Kofi Asumaning, Anesu Chasi, Bradley de Klerk, Jason Lawrence, Otsile Maphosa, Nicholas Pitt, Onalerona Sekgororwana, Liam Tibshraeny, Erich van Zyl

hockey exemplifies the E Block’s dedication to excellence. Calum van Zyl’s water polo leadership and academic rigour further emphasise the Block’s diverse strengths. Collaborate and diversify (D Block). The diverse talents in D Block highlighted the strength that comes from collaboration, teaching me always to seek synergy in differences. Remo Khoale’s dedication to first aid and music, and Alex Bothner’s aquatic water polo and football skills reveal a group committed to service and sportsmanship. Dimo Papadopoulos’s rhythmic talents with the Marimba Band and Nkgwete Tlailane’s musical and athletic endeavours portray a harmonious blend of the arts and athleticism. Matthew Hunter’s cricket and hockey accolades and Nkateko Mathebula’s all- round sportsmanship show the Block’s competitive spirit. The likes of Rhys Watson, Mulisa Phungo and Timothy Bokaba shone in their respective sports and brought intellectual rigour to their academic pursuits. At the same time, Willow Yeowart and Keegan Pattenden’s service and cultural contributions reflect the Block’s commitment to broader community engagement. Lee-Roy Mochan’s participation in the Junior Marimba Band and prowess on the sports field encapsulates the essence of D Block: a collective of young

men who embody the values of teamwork, dedication and resilience. Serve with purpose (C Block). Witnessing C Block’s dedication to service and community taught me the power of serving with purpose and the indelible mark it leaves on both the giver and the receiver. In the heart of McCormick, our C Block were full of intellectual curiosity, athletic determination and community engagement, with many achievements and much growth this year. Aras, with his strategic prowess, secured a place in the South African bridge championship and significantly contributed to various societies. Tinashe’s excellence is evident in his top 15 academic

placements and his dynamic presence on the basketball court. Despite injuries, Araf El-Mammary’s resilience shines through in his impressive basketball statistics. Ross has distinguished himself with high academic honours and invaluable contributions to the soccer field. Andreas’s artistic and literary talents have garnered widespread recognition, and Thabo Mashego’s athletic achievements in soccer and cricket are paired with a deep commitment to service. Ashton’s musical talents have resonated through choirs and festivals, while his adventurous spirit has led him to mountain bike races and an exchange to Australia. Sumeshin’s involvement in sports and societies and his academic pursuits reflect the holistic development nurtured in the Block. Lead with excellence (B Block). B Block’s stellar leadership and academic prowess reinforced the lesson that leading with excellence is about achieving personal goals and uplifting those around you. B Block’s narrative at McCormick is one of leadership, academic pursuit and athletic distinction, setting a high standard of excellence and embodying the true McCormick spirit. Aphiwe’s heroic endeavours on the rugby field have earned him colours and the prestigious position of House prefect. Neo, the most improved in mathematics, reflects the Block’s dedication to academic excellence. Katleho’s extensive engagement in societies and his role in service projects showcase the Block’s commitment to the community. Kian’s leadership

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