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‘Taking an opportunity and seeing what comes of it’ was the thinking behind Jodie Handley’s decision to take part in the Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment recently.

Also known as RYPEN, the camp was held last weekend in Kinglake. It saw Years 9 and 10 students from right across the Rotary 9790 District spend three days in an intense learning and social experience. The program is set up to challenge young people through activities that will increase their self-esteem and leadership skills, as well as allowing opportunities for them to think about understanding themselves and how they relate to others.

Jodie, who is in Year 10 at GSSC said she was surprised at how much she enjoyed the experience and being pushed outside of her comfort zone.

“It was really fun – all of the activities were around building your leadership skills and working together,” she said.

“It challenged us to think outside the box and think differently about things, not just at what seems obvious or that is right in front of us.”

Jodie said a highlight was also meeting new people, including a number of students from nearby schools such as Notre Dame College, Shepparton ACE Secondary College and Numurkah Secondary College.

“I made some really good friends there,” she said.

“I’m not too sure whether I want to take on any leadership roles at school, but I think it was a good opportunity to just see where it can take me.

“We had to get up in front of everyone and give a speech about something we’re passionate about. I spoke about my cow, Maggie, which got a lot of questions from the group.

“It was scary, but I did it. I think we all surprised ourselves with what we could actually do if we pushed ourselves.”

Jodie was nominated as the GSSC representative to attend the RYPEN Camp by her Neighbourhood Sub-school leader due to her positive behaviour and efforts in and outside of the classroom.

For more information about the RYPEN camp visit the Rotary website.

 

Pictured: GSSC Year 10 student, Jodie Handley (left) with some of the friends she made on the Rotary RYPEN camp.

Year 10 student Ellie Armstrong has made her debut for Murray Bushrangers as part of the Coates Talent League Girls season. We recently caught up with Ellie to chat all things footy and what this opportunity means to her. Congratulations Ellie, we are so proud of you for following your dreams.

 When did you start playing footy?

I grew up playing with all my brothers at Rumbalara. I started playing footy when I was 11 but stopped when I was 12 due to COVID. In 2022 I picked up footy again and decided to have a go at Shepparton Swans. I ended up kicking three goals my first game and was awarded best on ground. That’s what boosted my confidence and love for footy.

What age group have you been selected for?

Under 18 bottom age for Bushies. For Shepparton Swans I play in the Youth Girls competition.

Was it hard choosing between football and netball

Not really, football was always my passion, I decided to try and balance out netball and footy at the same time. I would play netball for Rumbalara on Saturdays and footy for Shepp Swans on a Sunday, we ended up winning the cup in 2022 so this year I decided to stick with footy.

What do you want to get out of playing with Bushrangers?

I want to make AFLW … Richmond specifically.

Why are you interested in playing footy?

I grew up in a sporty family and all my brothers and my dad played football so footy is in our blood.