In Conversation with Steve Solomon

Whilst Steve Solomon has always loved playing sport, rugby was his first love. From a young age, the dedicated fan would watch every Wallaby game, face resplendent in green and gold paint. Steve loved being active and enjoyed the competitive and social aspects of sport. It didn’t matter what he was playing, as long as he enjoyed it. It was only much later that Steve found his passion for running and he hasn’t stopped since.

This week we were lucky to share 60 minutes of conversation with the Australian Olympian and 400m Champion. The interview was arranged over WhatsApp, two days into Steve’s hotel quarantine, on his return from the Tokyo Olympics. He sounded like a great guy but little did we realise just what a treat we were in for.

Hundreds of students, staff, parents, grandparents and alumni Zoomed in to hear the Olympian’s incredible journey. Steve’s cousins, Eli Jocum and Gia Jocum, welcomed him to our online ‘studio’ and Head Madrichim Vicky Miller, Sofia Berkovic and Micah Esra shared the role of interviewer – one at which they excelled.

All who attended had the opportunity to submit questions beforehand. Year 3 student, Ryan Miller, posed the first question. Following the interview, Ryan sent me a message via his mum: “I felt grateful that we had the chance to hear Steve Solomon speak and that I was chosen to ask a question. I learnt that it takes so much training and so many injuries for a chance to go to the Olympics. I was surprised Steve was a soccer and rugby player before taking up running at only 17. I loved the chance to hear an Olympian speak at our School. It is my dream to go to the Olympics and he inspired me to see that it is possible.”

Grandparents, Maya and Ron Hirsch, who Zoomed in from home (where else would they be?!) were so impressed by Steve and how he related to the audience: “You are an amazing role model for our students and we feel certain that you left them with some great life lessons”.

In Conversation with Steve Solomon was organised by the School’s Gesher Committee comprising parents, grandparents and alumni who aim to bring the community together through events and activities. Daniela Freed, Board member and Chair of Gesher shared: “It was such a pleasure to participate in the conversation with Steven Solomon on behalf of the Gesher Committee.

“Steve is such an inspirational and motivating speaker. It was so wonderful to hear his stories and accounts of what goes into being an elite athlete. It was clear it is not always easy and you are not always winning, but also clear that perseverance and determination to reach your goals are so important.”

If you missed the interview with Steve – you’re in luck!

Michelle Favero, Manager of Marketing and Communications