Dear Parents, Students, Staff and Friends of Chisholm Catholic College,

As I write this article, many eyes around the world are turning towards the excitement of international sport. Reflecting on this, I was drawn to the words of Pope Leo XIV this week:

“The World Cup begins tomorrow, and many will watch the matches. Soccer reminds us of something we must not forget: life is not a race to show off on our own, but a path we learn to walk together. Anyone who does not know how to pass the ball, even if they have talent, has not yet understood the game. Anyone who does not know how to live with and for others, has not yet understood life.” (Pope Leo XIV: 11 June 2026).

These words speak strongly to the life of a school community. While we rightly celebrate individual achievement, true success is never accomplished in isolation. The growth of each student is supported by teachers, parents, friends and peers, mentors and countless others who encourage, challenge and guide them along the way.

This is particularly evident as our senior students come to the end of the examination period. Examinations are often viewed as individual tests of knowledge and preparation, yet behind every student sits a network of support. Now that the exams have concluded, we wish all students who are about to receive their results, the success they deserve and encourage them to approach any challenges with confidence, resilience and gratitude for those who have accompanied them throughout their learning journey so far. Their efforts are a reminder that achievement is not simply about personal performance but about making the most of the opportunities and support that have been provided.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, one of the most significant feasts in the Catholic tradition. We celebrated this feast day earlier in the week when Fr Greg led our Year 8 students with Mass on Wednesday.

The Sacred Heart reminds us of Christ’s boundless love, compassion and self-giving service. As Deacon Peters shared at our Communion service this morning, this is really the “feast of God’s love” calling us to move beyond ourselves and place the needs of others alongside our own. It is a powerful reminder that our faith is lived not through individual accomplishment alone, but through relationships built on kindness, generosity and care.

And so, Pope Leo’s reflection on soccer and life, challenges us to consider how we “pass the ball” to others each day. In our Chisholm Catholic College setting, this may be through supporting or encouraging a classmate, welcoming a new student, respecting staff and students or simply offering a kind word when it is needed most. These seemingly small actions build the culture of a community where every person can flourish.

As we continue through this 11-week term, may we be inspired by the example of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and remember that our greatest achievements are not measured solely by what we accomplish ourselves, but by how we help others succeed alongside us.

Oh…and go the Socceroos!!!

God bless.

Mr Simon Harvey
Principal