My phone rang in the autumn of 2024 and it was Jim Harrington on the line. This is unusual, I thought. Then it dawned on me and the excitement and nerves kicked in. Eventually after 3 seconds, Jim said the unforgettable words, “you have been chosen to be the next OSA President” or words to that effect. I was stunned but immediately proud. What an honour. He said I could have some time to think about it but there was no way I was going to turn the invite down. And so here I am, President of the OSA for 2026. My school year of mates, the Class of 85ish, are very excited.
On February 15th I attended my first function where I received the chain of office from 2025 President, Clive Shiret, and made my first speech. One down, several to go, including the big one at the Annual Reunion Dinner. I’m pleased to say, it went down well and I was absolutely overwhelmed with the encouragement given to me and kind words said. I am looking forward to an enjoyable tenure.
It seems that the last few Presidents have embarked on their year in the hot seat with a theme in mind. Dan Garside’s was “just one more” where he aimed to encourage the membership to introduce one new member to the association whilst Jim Harrington’s was “renew old friendships” which speaks for itself. My theme this year is to highlight the importance of the sports clubs, not only to the Association but to members in general.
I am currently in my last of 10 seasons as Chairman of the Old Southendian Football Club. Back in my youth, I played cricket for the Old Boys for several seasons too. I am also chief organiser for the Old Boys Angling Society which, at the moment, is an unaffiliated sports club. I for one would definitely have slipped through the Association net if it wasn’t for being part of the football and cricket clubs. I started playing for OSFC whilst still at school, making my debut on 21st January 1984 at the age of 16. I loved every minute of becoming friends with the older players who had all, almost without exception, attended SHSB. It was non-stop banter about the cock house, various teachers and of course stories of mischievous activities.
Unfortunately, over the last decade or more, the relationship between the football club and the school has become rather disconnected although in recent seasons, the Old Boys Century Club have purchased kits for both the school 1st XI and 2nd XI. The football club has also been instrumental in organising games for the boys at Garon Park 3G when the school pitches have been waterlogged and unplayable. As a club, we would like to get more involved if possible and be able to “advertise our wares” more prominently so that the pupils are fully aware of our existence. Being part of the football club for more than 40 years has given me many, many friends whom I would never have met and also lots of opportunities in both life and business.
Lastly, I would like to touch on my school years, all of which were very happy, even though Athens slipped from the main hall on my joining to the PLR when I left. I have many fond memories of lessons, free periods, football matches and more. All of my teachers were excellent. One or two of them outside the classroom were very scary but inside the classroom were a delight to be taught by. I did leave school early though (I can hear the gasps now) but it had nothing to do with not enjoying school. In fact I went back twice in the first month after starting work. More on this at a later date. I left because maths and physics A Level became impossible and geography became boring. A strange combination of subjects I know but they were my favourite O Levels.
So there you have it. I look forward to attending as many events as I can over the coming year and getting to know lots more new people. The chain of office is in pride of place at home and I will wear it with honour as often as I can in 2026.
Long may the School, the Association and the associated sports clubs prosper.
Forti nihil difficile.