St Leonard's College | Independent School Melbourne

By adopting this approach, students and families gained access to participate in activities that were traditionally not part of the school’s sports offerings. In addition, incorporated sport clubs were formed such as the St Leonard’s College Swimming and Netball Clubs. Notably, the Netball Club was created over 40 years ago to service the need for our netball players to engage in club sporting competitions outside the regular inter-school competition. According to the retired President of the St Leonard’s Collegians Netball Club (SLNC), Sally Dewis, “The club was established in the 1980s by Leanne McLean, a Physical Education teacher at the College, who was a passionate netball player and coach. The club was set up as an inclusive community netball club, welcoming players of all ability levels and from any school, with a particular focus on introducing young players to the sport.”

In 2023, the College embarked on a mission to align all incorporated or community-based programs with those administered directly by the College.

Following the closure of the SLNC, the College stepped in to assume responsibility for maintaining club participation opportunities. Additionally, club programs such as Basketball, Aesthetics Sports, and Swimming were brought under College leadership. A new Head of Club Sport was appointed to oversee these initiatives. Numerous community-based sporting programs have undergone scrutiny to prioritise child safety, maintain the College’s reputation for excellence in the public eye, and emphasise the importance of providing a valuable and fulfilling sports experience across all offerings within the College.

The Club Sports program at St Leonard’s College offers students and families the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of fun, fitness, and friendship. Research widely confirms that children are more likely to sustain their involvement in sports when they find it fun and when they have the opportunity to play with friends or make new ones. The philosophy of the St Leonard’s College Club Sports program is centred around amplifying these two elements while also providing students with the opportunity to increase or maintain their fitness levels while representing the College in a club or school-based competition in our local area.

Families benefit from the convenience of on-campus or nearby training facilities and the assurance that coaches are directly employed by the College, ensuring consistent child safety measures and quality experiences. Moreover, families can rest assured that their child’s well-being is comprehensively supported in this environment, with various avenues available for medical, psychological, and social support. Students enthusiastically embrace the chance to engage in sports beyond school hours while proudly representing the College. Our club sports framework not only fosters the holistic development of our students but also cultivates essential attributes such as leadership, teamwork, communication skills, and accountability, laying a foundation for their continued growth as learners.

There is a stronger oversight of the development not only of skills in each club sport, but also fostering deeper connections between coaches and students, enhancing the leadership of the program. Students from ELC through to Year 12 can participate, with volunteer coaching opportunities available for older students looking to contribute to their sport and gain coaching experience.

With the start of the new year, and many new processes in place, we’re pleased to note that we have 17 teams competing in the Southern Basketball Association (SBA) competition, making us the sole school to do so. Additionally, we have 13 teams competing in the Bayside and Districts Netball Association (BDNA) competition, one of only two schools to do so. Our swimming program, now integrated within the College, offers squad training and learn-to-swim options, and it continues to experience growth while achieving success at both State and National levels. The Aesthetic Sports program continues to flourish within our club framework, with the addition of a new cheer team and expanded offerings in dance troupes and gymnastics.

With over 550 students engaged in the club sports program, spanning from ELC to Year 12, our offerings extend beyond traditional sports to include activities such as Equestrian, Snowsports, Sailing, Strength and Conditioning, Running, and Taekwondo clubs. Moving forward, the College remains committed to regularly reviewing the sports provided to ensure inclusive representation and ample opportunities for every student to discover their passion and thrive.

By Sally Northcroft, Director of Cocurriculum and Christine Mravlek-Bonello, Head of Club Sport

*Previously published in the March 2024 edition of Network, the magazine of the St Leonard’s College community.