Who would have thought 2 years ago that tomorrow we would be opening our doors on the NSW Central Coast to Australia’s first football specific college?
It has been an enormous effort by all involved and I have been very privileged to be surrounded by such supportive family, amazing friends, hard working and passionate staff and families who are willing to put their faith in our vision.
Tomorrow morning at 8.30AM we will receive our first group of students ranging from year 5 through to year 10. IFS will start with almost 80 keen and excited students in our inaugural group and what a journey we have ahead of us. I trust it will be lots of fun, hard work and I am sure their will be some tough times, however, as a college community I truly believe anything is possible.
In our opening assembly tomorrow morning I will quote the words of the actor Will Smith who said, “Being realistic is the most common path to mediocrity”. What does that mean? Well in a nutshell it basically means that the idea of being realistic should never hold you back. Being realistic shouldn’t mean you should not take risks. It shouldn’t scare you. Quite simply don’t be mediocre. Work hard for the things you want and even though those around you might think you are nuts and might even suggest you are crazy, don’t let the idea of being realistic hold you back. You can achieve anything you set your mind too. I have over the past 2 years achieved things many people said was not possible. So was I being realistic when I suggested 2 years ago I wanted to start a college?
Over the coming weeks I have asked the staff at Central Coast Sports College to write their own blogs reflecting on their experiences with IFS so watch out for their updates coming soon.
Looking forward to keeping you up to date about the IFS journey and remember, in the words of Michael Hyatt, “your life is a gift, now go make it count.”
Liane Laird/moulds says
Well done Paul we are all so excited and nervous at this new beginning in all our lives
Can’t wait to start the journey tomorrow
See you at college
Karen Gray says
Never before has my son been so eager to go to college. He has counted down the days all through the Christmas holidays until the college opens. I think the quote you’ve used Paul is very pertinent. Here is a quote I love and I also think is pertinent…..”All our dreams can come true-if we have the courage to pursue them” Walt Disney. Your courage Paul to pursue your dreams has given my son, and many other children the chance to pursue their dreams. Thank you for your vision, commitment and tenacity. It makes me so happy that my son will have you as a role model.
Aaron Shooter says
Congratulations Paul and all the team at IFS. I wish you all the best for your first day and the future. You deserve all the success you dream of as you hand craft the reality of IFS
Beverley Chapman says
Congratulations and well done….. the road is just beginning. With love and support.
Norm Brew says
Congratulations to all the teachers, coaches and Paul for what will be a exciting time for the students and their parents, after witnessing the pride, passion and emotion form you this morning day 1 opening, we can only think that I.F.S will succeed.
I for one am very jealous that this type of college and teaching was not available when I was young.
Wishing all the luck for what will be a great future for I.F.S students and teachers and again congratulations to Paul, well done
julie dolan says
Congratulations Paul. In our lives, we come across an extraordinary number of people, but very few with the unwavering resolve that you have. It was definitely needed to get a project like this off the ground, and will no doubt be needed as the college grows. Looking forward to the path ahead..