2016 School Magazine

ATHLETICS It was a rare privilege to have the 2016 BGGS Athletics season take place in parallel with the 2016 Olympic Games. As our girls trained hard, they were guided and inspired by the Australian female athletes who competed admirably. Not only did the athletes’ tangible success inspire our team, but also guided them, teaching the girls to carry themselves with dignity, resilience and sportsmanship. The season commenced with the Year 7 ‘come and try’ day, with an outstanding and unprecedented turn out. This exciting day served as a promising prelude as to what was an energetic season, with all girls giving new things a go, developing friendships and trying their best. Our motto for the 2016 season was ‘We Will Go the Distance’ . While this motto alludes to ultimate success at QGSSSA, it also refers to the integral concepts of teamwork, unity and support. Throughout the season it was encouraging to see athletes embracing each other’s success and remaining resilient through challenging times. QGSSSA was a day that reflected the hard work, dedication and energy each girl invested into every lead-up competition and training session. Notably, three of our Grammar girls set outstanding records: in her 100m (division C), Persia Black (7H) from 12 years ran 14.45 seconds, Isabel Lumley (7M) from 12 years threw a distance of 25.56m in discus (division B), and

finally, Rebecca Haley (10M) from 14 years jumped a height of 1.73 meters in high jump. Another exciting outcome of QGSSSA was when the BGGS 12 years won their age group pennant. This victory is a reflection of the dedication and hard work this age group invested. The numbers at training were consistently impressive, as was the level of energy and talent. Such a commendable achievement is a wonderful way for the girls to finish their first athletics season. Reflecting upon the 2016 Athletics season, our team certainly did go the distance…and beyond! We witnessed an inspiring calibre of talent, sportsmanship, persistence, friendship, zeal and commitment, and wish the team the best of luck for future years. GEORGIA MACKAY (12H) AND IVY LAWRENCE (12E) CAPTAINS

BADMINTON Badminton is the second most popular sport in the world, and the fastest growing sport in the School, with a record number of signups of over 130 girls this year from all year levels. During Terms III and IV, squad members trained three hours a week, with extra training sessions nearing the competitions. The juniors trained on Monday and Tuesday afternoons while the seniors trained on Friday afternoons. With the insightful coaching from a BGGS Old Girl and national players, they have greatly improved their communicational skills, team-working skills and techniques. Success in badminton is not only reliant on the technique and strategies while playing on court, but faith and communication between the pairs is also vital. The girls embraced these aspects and have developed close friendships. They grew together throughout the term in their support and trust in one another on the court.

The Senior QGSSSA competitions were held on Saturday, 22 October 2016 and the juniors on the following Saturday, 29 October 2016. As a result of the hard work and dedication, we won 3 pennants from the Senior C, 10A, and 10B teams. The 10A and 10B teams have won their respective pennants every year since they started

in grade 8. As a result, these teams have a very high level of trust between players and all share a close bond. All the girls have had a lot of fun socialising and improving their individual skills and have trained very hard, not only for the competitions, but also for their own fitness and co-curricular experiences. Badminton is easy to pick up, improve and have fun whilst making friends. It is truly an amazing sport. ALEXANDRIA DIMICHELE (12E) AND MEGAN KO (12W) CAPTAINS

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