30/06/2026
Sometimes life gives you moments that remind you why you do what you do ❤️
This week was one of those moments.
As a mum, it was incredibly special to stand in front of a group of young men - many of whom I've watched grow up alongside my own son - and be invited into their rugby environment to talk about something I'm passionate about: mental fitness, mental flexibility, trust and character.
One of the most meaningful moments came with nothing more than a simple jar of marbles.
Inspired by Brené Brown's work on trust, each player held a marble, shared one small action they could take to strengthen trust within the team, and placed it into the jar.
Then they each picked up a second marble.
This time, they shared something they were genuinely grateful for about being part of the team before adding that marble too.
It was such a simple activity, but such a powerful reminder that great teams are built on two things:
Contributing to something bigger than yourself.
Appreciating what you've already been given.
Trust grows through small actions.
Gratitude keeps us humble.
Together, they create the kind of culture where people flourish.
As I watched these boys reflect on the kind of teammates - and the kind of men - they want to become, I couldn't help but feel grateful myself.
Grateful for coaches who invest so much of themselves.
Grateful for parents who quietly make sacrifices every week.
Grateful for Sacred Heart College and its commitment to developing young men of character through its Marist values.
And grateful that, every now and then, my worlds as a mum and as a health coach get to beautifully collide.
These boys are on the verge of spreading their wings. My hope is that long after they've forgotten the scorelines, they'll remember that every small choice matters - and that every act of trust and every moment of gratitude helps build the kind of man others want beside them.
Thank you to the 1RA coaching staff, management and boys for welcoming me into your team. It was a privilege I won't forget. 🏉💙
