This week we took 13 young men to compete in the annual Pompallier Shield competition which took place at Pompallier College in Whangarei. This is the first year the competition has run since 2019 when it was held at McAuley High School. Pompallier College were gracious and well-organised hosts for the event, which began with a pōwhiri followed by kai. 

Our boys were very keen to test their chops in this prestigious event, which sees all Catholic Colleges from the Auckland Diocese competing in four categories: junior and senior scripture, Te Reo scripture, junior and senior prepared speech, and a group waiata. Representing St Paul's College this year were (respectively) Leo Zigliani, Finn Lloyd, Piripi Huia, Javan Jeyhan and Atelea Barron-Afeaki. Our choir was made up of Henry Glen, Marcellin Tagiilima Siilata, Revelation Tagaloa, Genesis Tagaloa, Miguel Gazo, John Tangi, Prague Chadwick and Montell Laumea. 

We are so proud of our young men for their commitment, bravery and pride. Each and every one of them represented the College commendably. A special mention goes out to Finn Lloyd who took out second place in senior scripture reading, being edged out of the top spot by just 0.6 of a mark!

I'm also very grateful for Mr Meads and our student teacher Ms Tia for their support during the trip.

We look forward to next year's competition and would encourage any young men who want to test their skills in speaking, speech-making and waiata to put their hands up when the time comes.

Mr Schryvers