WILL GREENWOOD GUEST SPEAKER AT SCHOOL HOUSE GENTLEMAN’S DINNER

OS, World Cup Winner, British Lion and SKY Sports Commentator Will Greenwood attended School House Gentleman’s Dinner last weekend.

Will, an Evanian (1985-1991), was introduced to the House by current School House pupil Charlie Stephenson’s parents; Mr Stephenson is also an Evanian. Harry Bolton, Head of House, did a superb job of welcoming Will and the 58 boys at the start of the dinner, for which the menu was Tuna Carpaccio, Braised Lamb and followed by Sticky Toffee Pudding. 

Of his return to Sedbergh, Will said: “It was great being back at Sedbergh and talking to so many of the boys, who all had questions about my days in Evans and memories of playing on Buskholme.

It’s interesting to see how although time changes habits and interests for teenagers, the traditions of the School mean that there are many elements of life that remain unchanged and that we were all able to share.

Formal House dining is always special, in such fine surroundings and I think the food is definitely better than I remember it from the late 1980s! It is brilliant to retain the connection with the school and to see these sparky young men, the next generation, so enthusiastic about life at Sedbergh.”  

Harry Laidler, School Prefect, 1st XV scrum half, and Hong Kong U20 squad, said: “From the start to the finish of the evening the boys were captivated by such a fresh and insightful outlook on approaching challenges and life. Will did so in such a personal way that it seemed to relate to us all in some way, shape or form.

We enjoyed hearing of his experiences whilst he was at Sedbergh and how things have changed as well as how things have stayed the same, for example despite being in a team that won the World cup, he described the Wilson Run as one of the toughest things he has ever done.

The highlight of my night was when he talked about Sedbergh setting him up to achieve his dreams and how taking the opportunities provided is vital. It was an absolute pleasure and honour to be in Will’s company and is something that I will remember for a very long time whilst trying to take into account some of what he said in to my own personal development.” 

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