Sport

We believe sport is more than just competition. It's a vital part of a well-rounded education, fostering physical and emotional wellbeing, and building valuable life skills. We aim to:

• Nurture skilled athletes: We provide pathways for students to develop their sporting talents and reach their full potential.
• Create inclusive opportunities: We encourage participation from all students, including those who may not be involved in sport outside of school.
• Enhance wellbeing: We promote the physical, social, cognitive, and emotional benefits of sport for every student.
• Extend learning beyond the classroom: Sport teaches valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience, and leadership. It helps students build confidence and a strong sense of belonging within their school community.

Working together

Our diverse sports program is shaped by the collective efforts of all Catholic schools in our diocese. Through our primary and secondary sports councils, we ensure that student voice is at the heart of our decision-making. Our dedicated teaching staff play a crucial role, sharing their passion and expertise as coaches, managers, selectors, and officials. Together, we create a vibrant and inclusive sporting environment for all our students.

Inclusive of all skills and abilities

Sport brings our schools together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose and our sporting programs offer something for everyone. Whether a student is aiming for elite performance or simply wants to have fun and get active, there's a place for them. 

We challenge and support gifted students to excel in their chosen sports, with opportunities to compete at local, state, and even national levels. At the same time, we encourage all students to embrace an active lifestyle and experience the joy of teamwork and friendly competition.

Pathways and development opportunities

The Diocese of Wollongong sporting structures provides two forms of opportunities for students: 

Diocesan sporting opportunities: 

• Inter-school championship competitions 
• Gala day events in a range of sports 

Representative sporting pathways: 

We offer pathways for individual athletes, teams, and officials. 

• Primary Sporting Pathway: School level > Diocesan level > Mackillop level > NSW Primary School Sports Association (NSWPSSA) level > National level (in selected sports)
• Secondary Sporting Pathway: School level > Diocesan level > NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC) level > NSW All Schools level > National level (in selected sports)

"Sports can open the way to Christ in those places or environments where, for different reasons, it is not possible to announce Him directly." 

— Pope Francis, Open the Way to Christ: Fostering a Pastoral Ministry of Sport