In the August edition of Insight, we spoke about the recruitment process we were undertaking for a new Head of Coaching role at Haileybury. This exciting position is accountable for improving the standard of coaching across the whole Haileybury program and will be working with each of our Heads of Sport to agree on coach development plans that are specific to each sport. From the coaching that our more committed athletes receive during key developmental years, to the support given to engage those students that are more driven by having fun, the role will work with all our coaches in helping to create lifelong memories for our students and their families. The focus will not only include the coaching your child receives as being part of a Saturday morning netball or hockey program, but also further opportunities for development outside of school hours such as before / after school coaching and school holiday programs. We are firm in our belief that regardless of what team your child plays in, or what sport they choose, they should have an outstanding experience with their coach; one that prioritises their own personal goals for the season, as well as that of the team.
With all this in mind, I am extremely excited to share that Nathan Burke has been appointed into this role. Most of you would know that Nathan was at one stage the game’s record-holder with the St Kilda Football Club, having pulled on the Saints jumper on 323 occasions. But what you might not be aware of is that since his retirement, Nathan’s passion has been in coaching and leadership development, having worked across a range of sports that include athletics, netball, futsal, basketball, gymnastics, cricket, tennis and soccer. Nathan is particularly passionate about girls sport, being a father of three girls, two of whom played sport at Haileybury and one recently achieved the milestone of notching up her 50th AFLW game for St Kilda. Nathan is also passionate about the critical role that parents play in supporting our young people to thrive during their time in sport, leading to the penning of his book Best and Fairest Sports Parenting (available in all good bookstores). Please join me in welcoming Nathan back to Haileybury.
Touch Girls star at Nationals
Four Haileybury girls represented Victoria in the Touch National Youth Championships in Coffs Harbour. Em and Kal were in the U18s team and Anika and Isla were in the U14s team. Em, Kal and Isla have all been selected for this year’s Blazer Squad; Anika is in our extended 1st team training partner group (she plays in the same position as Em and Kal).
Em was identified by the Head Coaches of Australia Touch Football as a ‘rising youth talent’ from the Alliance States, one of only two players from Victoria, which is a truly wonderful achievement.
In addition, Zac represented his state, playing for the U15 Victoria Storm in the National Youth Championships for the second year. We congratulate all students on their achievements.
Haileybury Dance shines at Nationals
Haileybury Dance lit up the stage at the 2025 TFT Dance Star National Championships in Hobart, proudly representing the school across two action-packed days of competition. This year, all 120 members of the Dance Squad, from Years 7 to 12, qualified for Nationals, which is an outstanding achievement.
On Thursday, 17 soloists performed with artistry and confidence across multiple genres, while Friday saw 11 teams take to the stage in fiercely competitive divisions. Across the event, our dancers embodied the spirit of Haileybury Dance, performing with passion, discipline and grace, while supporting and encouraging each other and their peers from other schools.
The results were exceptional, with 23 out of 28 performances earning medals, 14 of them gold. Highlights included National Championship titles for soloists Ruby, Lucie, Olivia, Maddie, Amy, Kaylin, Braya, Dalenna and Ella, alongside team victories in Small and Large Contemporary, Small and Large Jazz and 7/8 Hip Hop.
These results reflect the strength, dedication and camaraderie that define Haileybury Dance. Congratulations to all our dancers and coaches for an unforgettable Nationals. Your performances have inspired us all.
Matthew Dwyer
Head of Sport (One Haileybury)
