Luke Corduner

I would like to nominate Luke because I believe he embodies the Olympic spirit, by pushing himself to develop beyond his comfort zone, encouraging children to do the same, both academically and physically, and giving of himself personally as well as professionally. Luke first arrived at my children's school as an aide to a boy with special needs. Quiet and unassuming, nonetheless very rapidly his potential was spotted and his role evolved into that of teaching assistant for the entire class. Eventually he carved a role for himself as PE teacher and floating teacher for the entire school. After hours, he coaches football, tennis, table tennis, helps out with clubs, runs a sports camp during the holidays. In addition to being an extremely active and dedicated teacher he also contributes a tremendous amount to the community through working with youths aged 11-16. These 'detached' youths are expelled from school or young offenders, and the work that Luke does helps to engage them in sport and other constructive activities so that they can stay out of trouble. What makes Luke stand out for me is a somewhat intangible quality. His presence is calming and supportive while he makes challenging demands on his students. Whether academically or on the sports fields, he has an instinct for pushing his charges towards achievable 'stretches.' I have also observed his constructive, encouraging support when the goal was just a bit too far away - a true Olympian.