Grammar kicks off Sports Trust

Mar 6 2009 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

AN innovative sports trust project was launched this week at Perth Grammar School, with around 200 parents in attendance for “An Evening of Excellence” showcasing the secondary’s talent.

Rector John Low paid tribute to the Guildry Incorporation of Perth and Stagecoach co-founder Brian Souter for support in getting the initiative up and running.

“Everyone Active” is the motto of the new charitable trust centred on the Grammar School. It also embraces 10 feeder primaries ranging from Murthly to Methven.

Mr Low pointed out that the school has a wealth of sporting talent, with youngsters flying the flag at regional and national level in a range of disciplines.

The new sports trust will pinpoint and nurture potential but it is also geared towards giving boys and girls a chance to sample an active lifestyle.

Mr Low said: “We were delighted with the turnout of parents this week to mark the launch of the sports trust.

“We have received a £12,000 grant from the Guildry Incorporation and also backing from Brian Souter. Without their support we’d have struggled to get this exciting project off the ground.

“We are already offering extra-curricular activities to youngsters at the school and also to children at our associated primaries.

“Initially, the main focus is on major sports like football, hockey, basketball, cricket and netball. Further down the line we will widen the net. Gifted youngsters will feed into local sports clubs.”

One of the key elements is to encourage more girls to sample sport. Mr Low noted that when girls did become involved in sport they stuck to the task.

He said: “We are encouraging sport for everyone, no matter their ability. An active lifestyle has health benefits and sport can prevent pupils falling prey to potentially more dangerous distractions.

“If youngsters are introduced to organised sport when they are at primary school there is more chance they will stay the course at secondary level.”

Under Russell Kesson’s watchful eye more than 100 kids enjoy basketball sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The PE teacher and Scotland U14 coach is joined by Craig Martin.

Head of PE Mike Edwards, Dave McCaw and Steve Cameron coach football and they have played the game to at least junior level. Gregor McIntish handles the hockey.

Track star and Scottish Commonwealth Games hopeful Eilidh Child is teaching at the grammar school and has introduced youngsters to the George Duncan track adjacent to the school.

“We have a depth of experience within the department and we will also source coaching from outwith the school. Talented pupils with coaching qualifications can be harnessed by the sports trust,” said Mr Low.

In the past two years school pupils have generated more than £20,000 for charities and now the sports trust will be a recipient of some of that money.

“It is based on a successful and award-winning model pioneered at Breadalbane Academy and I’m confident it will have a big impact at the grammar school, “ said Low.

“We have dozens of cheerleaders practising for the various sports. There is a great deal of talent at the school and the sports trust is building on a solid base.”

The grammar’s senior pupils are teaming up with neighbouring St Columba’s High School for Friday games sessions, and they have input to the selected activities.

“Up to 14 different activities take place and these bring together the two schools.”

Now that the Perth Grammar School Sports Trust is in place, Mr Low urged local businesses and charities to back the initiative with vital sponsorship.

“Through sport, the idea is to nurture responsible citizens and benefit the community,” he stressed.