Monday, July 30, 2012


Dear Parents, Caregivers and Friends of St Mary’s School,

Week Three and what a busy time it is for all of us who are involved in any way in sport.

It’s that time which happens every four years when we all know what it is to ‘win by an ipon’, ‘catch a crab’, or ‘lose by T.K.O.  Yes, the Olympics are on, and you can only marvel at the amazing ability at the athletes that we watch and the amazing feats of skill, strength and endurance that they display. 

 What we must not lose sight of though is that these performances were not just made by someone wandering up and saying ‘can I have a row’ but rather by immensely talented athletes who have dedicated years to their sport.  Often making huge personal sacrifice along the way. 

 The one sport in the Olympics that I can comment on with any knowledge is rowing, I know what is required to achieve at national level and the jump to international level is immense.  To have a crew like Bond and Murray in such a technical boat is a huge boost for New Zealand rowing and our chances at the Olympics.  Every other crew is determined to win, there is no such thing as a ‘lay down—misere’.  Upsets happen, oars break and sport by it’s very nature is fickle.  We expect great things of our athletes, they expect more of themselves.

 But we must remember to temper our expectations especially of our own children.  We can encourage, support, nurture and even dream but if we want our children to play a sport to a high level we must ensure that they enjoy it.  As the American golfer Ray Floyd said “if you love what your doing you never work a day in your life”.

 So when we watch our children at their sport we need to remember that they are learning: skills, attitudes, values and setting goals.  Our job as parents is to offer support and hopefully they will continue to enjoy their sport and one day they may achieve something great.

 Have a great week.

Mike Brosnahan


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