Oscar Downes is Snow Australia’s Male Spirit of Interschools Award Winner for 2024

This award recognises students who, through their actions, have embodied the spirit of Interschools, and Oscar Downes’ leadership and support of his schools program makes him a deserving recipient.   

“Being recognised with Snow Australia’s Spirit of Interschools Award means a lot to me as it acknowledges my commitment to snowsports beyond just performance,” Downes said. 

“It reflects my dedication to participating across disciplines, supporting my school’s program and fostering a positive, collaborative spirit within the Interschools community.”

As captain of the Snow Sports at Knox Grammar School in New South Wales, Oscar took pride in his position and made sure to be a role model for everyone, even leading the school’s inaugural ‘captain’s run’. 

“Being Captain of Snow Sports at Knox Grammar School in 2024 was an opportunity to lead by example and inspire others to embrace the spirit of ‘giving it a go’,” he said. 

“Leading the inaugural ‘Captain’s Run’ helped younger and less experienced team members build confidence and connect with the broader team. 

“It was an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing me to connect with boys across all age groups from Prep to Senior School and build a sense of unity in the team. 

“Seeing the younger participants gain confidence and skills while bonding with their teammates made the event truly special, setting a positive tone for the entire season. 

“It’s great to be able to make a difference to the experience of all students within the program.

“Representing snowsports at events and assemblies allowed me to share my journey and encourage participation, fostering a sense of unity and a lifelong love for the sport. 

“It was important to demonstrate to all boys that ‘giving it a go’ is what it’s all about. 

“They didn’t have to be the highest-placed competitor, just go out, have fun, meet new people and try a new sport! 

“Seeing some of the boys build that resilience after not placing in a race but backing up into another discipline was very rewarding.”

A favourite event on the calendar for many, Oscar says it’s the supportive environment of Interschools that helps it become such a successful event. 

“Each year, I look forward to the camaraderie and team spirit that Interschools fosters, as well as the chance to challenge myself in various disciplines,” he said.  

“The supportive environment makes it a joy to participate, blending competition with the thrill of being part of a close-knit team.”

In this last year, Oscar has not only balanced competing, but also his leadership role alongside academics, the lessons learnt and achievements made during this time, is something he is proud of. 

“This year taught me the importance of balancing commitments as I had to navigate the demands of leadership, competition, Cadets and academics,” Downes said.

“It reinforced the value of time management and the rewards of fully committing to all opportunities available to me.

“One moment I’m most proud of is coming 3rd place as a team in the Division 1 Regional Championship during the 2023 season. 

“This was a personal milestone that reflected years of dedication and hard work, placing the highest within the team and individually qualifying for state for the first time.”

Ahead of the 2025 season, and his final year at school, Oscar reflects positively on his time and journey in snow and can’t wait to see where it takes him in the future. 

“In 2025, I hope to continue mentoring younger team members and fostering participation in snowsports at Knox as a coach/staff member,” he said. 

“Additionally, I aim to further improve my skiing performance and become a Level 1 Qualified Ski Instructor, as well as completing an avalanche safety course, with the goal of becoming Ski Patrol.

“One memorable moment was presenting at the snowsports orientation evening in 2024, where I shared my journey with parents and students, encouraging new participation. 

“It’s been fulfilling to see how my love for skiing has inspired others and I’m excited to stay involved in Snow Sports even after my school years.”

Snow Australia would like to congratulate Oscar on receiving the Spirit of Interschools Award in the 2024 Snow Australia Community Sport Awards, wishing him all the best in his future on and off the snow.