The Interschools Diaries by William Delaney

By William Delaney (Shore School, NSW)

Waiting at the top of the Ski Cross course in year 4, I was excited for my first National’s racing opportunity. The big hit out. With my (not) so muscly arms, I pushed off with three arching swings, scrambling to gain speed.

Over the first roller, pressing my feet down, round a berm, round another berm…

Finish.

Claps, cheers and a wide grin on my face.

My first Interschool’s Nationals was riveting because it represented two sides of sporting that not many other school sports can achieve: competitiveness and a passionate community.

Nail biting competition in year 4 was an exciting prospect for me. Sports like skiing and snowboarding in its many forms invites tremendous technical depth. Mastering each turn with the right turning radius, keeping over the front of the boot and staying on the literal “edge” drove me to engage in a learning experience unlike anything in a classroom or other sport. Whilst the competition is one aspect, my debut in year 3 wouldn’t have been cultivated without a friendly environment which encouraged participation.

On the other hand, Interschools racing isn’t just competition but also helps in forming friendships with a variety of other students from other schools. It is not often that a school sport offers the opportunity to meet new people. Personally, I have met a number of friends from schools such as Scots, Redlands and Snowy Mountain’s Grammar. It’s truly exciting that these races are not just a basis for competition but for close friends that I’ll be able to cherish for a very long time.

Finishing school soon and getting ready for university reminds me that I will miss Interschools races. More specifically, I will miss the mid-race adrenaline and the excitement of improving on my skiing. In contrasting my skiing from year 3 to year 11, not only did my racing improve, but my general skills as well. Whilst I may miss the competition and races with my friends, Interschools will always be important to me.