August 24 2011 Day One

Today was the launch of the Ball Project. Last night I was emailed the itinerary for today.

Outline of BALL Project for Wednesday, 24^th August – 9:00 to 10:40

1. Welcome and Introduction/photos - ( 5 minutes)

2. NMFC players talk about their experiences at school - ( 5 to 10 minutes)

3. Students ask NMFC players questions – ( 10 to 15 minutes)

4. NMFC platers sign student copies of “Island of the White Spear” (5 minutes)

5. NMFC players, mentors and students go onto oval for a kick/photos - (20 to 25 minutes)

6. NMFC players depart at 10.00

7. Students and mentors move back to the Info Centre - (5 minutes)

8. Students and mentors complete football tips - ( 30 minutes)

Nikolas Brudenell

Head of English

LiteracyCoordinator
I hardly slept threw sheer nerves. I signed in this morning and Nikolas was at reception very happy to see me. Butterflies were doing flips in my stomach. I must mention I am quite new to the school and was only asked to join the project two weeks ago. I was aware that it was intended for a small group of year eight boys to help develop and implement an interest in literacy. I was informed that North Melbourne football players were giving the boys some information on their time at school, a couple of excursions were planned and I was asked to help mentor the students. Sounded great until I seen the itinerary. I don't know anything about football and feel slightly foolish trying to inspire boys with something I have little knowledge about.

I set up the room and in walk three North Melbourne players, slightly shy but very fit and handsome looking. Soon after the boys stroll into the room, my heart is pumping so hard through sheer nerves... the players are introduced and take a few minutes each talking about their experiences at school. They were nervous...I had to smile.

The boys had their book 'The island of the White Spear' signed by the NFC players.

 The year eight boys had question time then we walked out to the oval to kick the ball. Stunning day, blue sky's with a light spring breeze.

Thirty minutes later back to the library and the boys are moved into four groups of three. Their task; as a group to fill out a footy tipping sheet with explanations of why the chosen team would win. What do I know about footy? Nothing! I looked at these boys and they looked uneasy. Quickly I broke the ice and told them I was a North Melbourne Footy fan, they laughed. We moved through the teams debating why each team had a chance of winning. The boys took on the challenge with a positive attitude and some really hearty laughs. Such an enjoyable morning very much looking forward to next week.