Berwick College welcomed back past students, Rebecca Henderson and Sergei Evglevski, at their celebration of student achievement assembly on Friday, 29th November. Rebecca and Sergei represented Australia at the Paris Olympics in 2024. Rebecca, following her earlier representation at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, competed in the Athletics Women’s 20km Race Walk. Sergei, following his earlier representation at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, competed in the Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol.
Student excellence at Berwick College is celebrated across the school. Students who have represented the school in athletics, chess, dance, basketball and other sports were acknowledged and celebrated. Banners were revealed for current students, Luke Fennell and Jordi Groenewegen, who have represented Australia in underage teams throughout 2024. Jordi spoke to the school assembly about her dedication and tenacity, and her determination not to accept labels and barriers to achieving her dreams. Luke was unable to attend due to his NBL commitments. Luke has accepted a scholarship to Syracuse University, USA, for 2025.
Principal, Josie Millard, highlighted that student excellence is found in everyday actions: every student who turns up to class, prepared to work hard and learn, even when it is difficult; students who choose to always do what they know is right; students who speak up for others and who always seek to be their best selves.
Those are the students who enable Berwick College to build a culture in which excellence is achieved. Rebecca and Sergei confirmed that this was their experience, as they outlined their commitment and journey at Berwick College and beyond, as exceptional athletes. Rebecca also shared her journey in completing her biomedical degree, including completing an exam online and while overseas, prior to competing in an international event.
Next year, Rebecca commences her Doctor of Medicine degree at the University of Melbourne while continuing to train. After the assembly our Olympians were joined by student award winners, who perhaps one day will also compete in future Olympic games.
