From treasured school memories to an extraordinary professional sporting career, this former JWACS student reflects on how their time at John Wollaston helped guide them toward who they are today.

Tell us a little about your JWACS journey.

I loved my JWACS journey! A highlight was Year 7 overnight camp where we cooked our own food – some good memories there. Playing touch rugby at lunch time with Mr Crawford, Founders’ Day, and winning the Principals’ Cup were also highlights. All my classes were awesome, though ATAR Chemistry with Mr Longman was a standout. I was lucky enough to become friends with a lot of different people and form good relationships with my teachers. My JWACS journey was a big part in guiding me to become who I am today.

How has your career developed, since graduation?

After graduating, I was signed as semi-professional rugby player to the Western Force. I’ve been out of school now for three years and in that time have been able to debut and represent the Western Force and the Wallaroo’s for multiple seasons. I’ve been able to travel the world through the sport I love and play for my state and country against the best players in the world.

I’ve been privileged to be part of the first Western Force side to make semi-finals in Fiji and playing Canada in the Rugby World Cup Quarter Final in England. Now, I am lucky to be one of the few professional rugby players in Australia.

JWACS really prepared me for my journey; the values of the staff and the School shaped me to be hardworking and perseverant. My teachers were very understanding of my goals and aspirations in sport, and worked with me to create balance in my life. My rugby really took a turn during Years 11-12, and so did my volume of work by taking on ATAR, the teachers were extremely supportive of how I was doing both. They kept me accountable with my work, but didn’t push me to give up my sport, which I really appreciate, I could feel the care they had for me. 

Do you have any advice for current JWACS students?

You get out what you put in. If you put in effort and work hard, the rewards will come. At JWACS, there is so much on offer. Make the most of your schooling – do your work but enjoy it. Do the cooking classes, do outdoor rec, do maths, have a laugh and have fun with your mates. Make the most out of it, everyday!