The Chronicle 2022

• Lastly to our kicking talent – with 90% plus kicking stats – Jack Martin . There are many more to mention but the boys mentioned represent the true spirit of Michaelhouse and what it stands for and for that they can be very proud! So, to the management under the experienced guidance of Mr Clark, to the teachers, to the sports staff, to the support and operational staff, on behalf of the class of 2022 we cannot thank you enough for the time, the patience, the effort and the much needed humour in ensuring our journey at this magnificent institution has been more than we anticipated, thank you. To our parents who have afforded us this special opportunity to be part of this school, not only what it has done for us both on and off the field, but what we will enjoy into the future as brothers from the Red Brick Fortress. All the miles travelled , the calls, the tuck, the support and most importantly the understanding. We are extremely grateful. To the class of 22, it has been an honour and privilege to be apart of this special group of boys and thank you all for the memories and lessons we have experienced together. We can truly say that we are Brothers in Arms. To the A Block boys of 2023 and the rest of the school, the ball is in your court. It is your choice to let your five years at Michaelhouse slip by or grab it with both hands by taking advantage of every opportunity that is presented to you. It is a cliché but rings so true that your time at this school flashes by quickly, I urge you to make the most of it. As I will soon sign off and hand over the baton as Senior Prefect for 2022, I can only thank the school community, my parents, my brother Oliver and my school mates for what has been an incredible journey, it has been an honour to lead this mighty school. In closing, I would like share with you some words that are very important to me: “Quit ye like men” boys who are leavers and who remain be strong, courageous, aware of your actions and be proud in the contribution that you make to this mighty school. And then lastly and most importantly, in the words of a Michaelhouse Ranger: “ This is My House, this is Your House, this is Our House, this is Michaelhouse.” Be passionate and proud of it.

A STRONG FOUNDATION It is what makes a school strong and well positioned to take on the challenges that arise. 2022 has certainly been a year of challenges, learnings and lots at that. I am sure many will agree that the school has faced the odd “out swinger”, brain teaser and hospital pass, but we have faced them and come out stronger and better prepared for the hurdles that will undoubtedly come our school’s way. TRADITIONS Traditions form the character of a school and are what gives it substance. We know as times evolve some traditions might seem insignificant to some, especially people who might not have been through or are familiar with a school such as ours and don’t quite understand the “why”. Traditions remain the fabric of our school and it is very important that we uphold them and pass them onto the boys who follow. RESPECT AND HUMILITY Respect and humility for each and everyone that you come into contact with on your journey. Be it in the form of a greeting, a solid handshake, a kind word or a smile, I appeal to you all especially in these tough times that the world and our country faces, to make that effort. COURAGE The ability to use your mental and moral strength to take on the challenges that one may face be it in a classroom, on a sports field, in a session, making a speech or just life in general. As mentioned in a previous talk in my so called unofficial guide to succeeding at Michaelhouse, “Hit hard and hit first”. Take up the challenge with courage! SERVICE Encapsulating and epitomising the meaning of spirit and what it stands for, I would like to make mention of some of my peers who have displayed these qualities over the years; • Michael Dalgleish – Drumming his heart out for the school week in and week out. • The Davies-Webb Twins – Taking extreme pride in the way we dress and look as a school. • Ben Frost – Showing us the way in the classroom not only for himself but giving up his time to help others. • Lucky Mabuza – My 2IC and who I cannot thank enough for putting up his hand first in serving others.

Thank you very much.

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