Mirrabooka PS: we began 2006 with a fantastic school sporting a blue and gold uniform. There were some very keen Eagles fans who knew their stuff and many other kids who overflowed with enthusiasm. Rick was well rested but found Ashton and Caitlin formidable opponents! But he was well pleased with the tuneful efforts of Jordan, Samson and Julien. Ms Parvone was a charming host.
St Andrew’s Grammar: Ms Emmelhainz and staff made us feel instantly at home. We learnt of the school’s Hellenic (Greek) connections and enjoyed expanding our knowledge base. Rick busted a few moves of his own but couldn’t match the power of the students.
Dryandra PS: the kids here demonstrated a sound knowledge of all things to do with football. Mr Bartell called upon his footballing background to help the kids in this regard. Good sportsmanship and excellent manners were on display all round.
Chidlow PS: we spent an extremely pleasant morning at Chidlow and were very well looked after by staff and students. The clinic we conducted showed a great deal of talent amongst the students. Rick had sore wings from the flight up.
Wundowie PS: Ms Gow and the staff had the kids of Wundowie on the move when we arrived. The weather was certainly warming up, but the kids showed great discipline in listening so well. Our clinic was a ‘hit’ despite the heat.
Baker’s Hill PS: by now it was REALLY HOT (over 40 degrees, I am told). But, yet again, the staff made us feel very welcome and the kids went above and beyond the call of duty to pay attention throughout our talk. Rick lacked the same discipline! Our clinic was forced undercover but went extremely well.
Avonvale PS: Mr Thorn and the students of Avonvale showed us a wonderful time (even though Mr T is a Freo supporter!). I was made to feel young when some kids asked if I still played for the Eagles (despite my grey/white hair). Thanks kids! Rick must have still been suffering from the long flight up because his strength certainly deserted him. Some above average skills were displayed in our coaching session.
Northam PS: Ms Butler was so well organised that the kids were sitting ready for us when we arrived. And there were some knowledgeable Eagles fans who cleaned me out of prizes in no time at all. But we are happy to share prizes with any kids who have a go… and there were plenty at Northam PS.
St Joseph’s PS: we had a little trouble finding the school (Rick’s fault) but had a lot of fun once we arrived. We were joined by the regional development officer, who did a terrific job helping us at our clinic. Mr MacMillan and Mr Fyfe helped us in our endeavours.
West Northam PS: a big change in the weather today; after such hot weather we had a little drizzly rain and about 25 degrees. We were also told that a few snakes had been seen at the school recently due to the rain associated with the last cyclone to hit our State’s north. The staff and kids told us it was no big deal, but Rick and I did our presentation on chairs. I have just a LITTLE fear of snakes! We had a wonderful time and were sad to leave West Northam where we were so warmly welcomed.
York District HS: our last school to visit in the Avon region and it was particularly beautiful (as is the historic town of York - quite a lovely place).The kids were so well behaved and showed outstanding manners in seeking autographs. The blue and gold uniforms looked terrific! Ms Springbett and her staff proved great hosts.
Kingsley PS: our return to Kingsley was much anticipated. It was nice to catch up with Mr Elsegood and meet Mr Devlin, a devout Blues supporter. The kids had a lot of fun with us and many smiles were on display. Rick smiled whilst dancing (was he auditioning for Dancing With The Stars?), then lost the smile in his test of strength – but only for a while. He’s a happy bird really.
Rawlinson PS: David Hynes and Andrew Embley spoke to the students of Rawlinson on a range of subjects. Both were impressed by the questions they were asked and the way the kids conducted themselves. Thanks for the invitation, Ms Krasnostein.
Ashfield PS: Jason and Jessica did a rousing job of the Eagles song and Rick showed his appreciation by dancing like a bird possessed. The kids listened so well, which I really appreciated because my voice had almost disappeared. Gemma was small but very strong and Ethan displayed his power too. Thank you to Mr Taylor and Mr Hardingham for looking after us.
Clayton View PS: our trip to Midland proved highly rewarding. We were greeted by a gleaming new school and keen and interested students. Rick proved a real hit. He was a little feisty but couldn’t translate his aggression into arm wrestling success. Mr Davis and Mr Sullivan looked after us well.
Oberthur PS: it was fantastic to catch up with Mr Johnson again and visit our friends at Oberthur. In the heart of the East Fremantle FC zone, many fine WAFL and AFL players have come through this area. Beth, Blake, Joel and Mei Wen took the stage and represented their school with great enthusiasm and pride.
Samson PS: we had a lot of kids in West Coast gear for this presentation. When our song was played it was sensational to hear so many kids join in the club song. I think Rick had a tear of joy in his Eagle eye! Thanks to Ms Burt, Mr Hancock, the helpful staff and kids of Samson – we had a heap of fun!
Sutherland / Dianella PS: we arrived at lunch time and were thrilled to see such an active group of kids! We had to duck tennis and basket balls, avoid skipping ropes and keep an eye out for so many low-flying sporting objects. It was terrific. But when it came time to listen or participate in our talk, the kids were equally proficient. Gratitude to Mrs McGinnity and all at Sutherland / Dianella.
