After being in physie for over 35 years I felt it was time to open my own club.  With the encouragement and support of the Figtree Physie Family and BJP, and with the following quote in mind, Albion Park Physie was born!

 “Do not follow where the path may lead.  Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” Harold R McAlindon.

I now feel like I have 4 children – a girl, 2 boys and Albion Park Physie!

The registration days were completely overwhelming. All age groups were filled and classes started on the 14^th February in my local Primary School and Uniting Church. It just goes to show – you never know unless you try!

The challenges in the beginning were logistics like finding a venue and advertising and we only had one week to pull this together. But we did it! The other challenge was to learn the new syllabus – so I practised at the hairdressers, waiting at school to pick up the kids, even in the car!  (You can probably imagine how my 2 sons felt in the back seat!)

I have a special connection with Phoebe Collins, so she was the natural choice to be my co-teacher. Phoebe happens to have a wonderful silver cup collection (and has worked extremely hard to achieve this!) and is an awesome teacher. Along with her mum Jackki, who freely gives her time and guidance, the 3 of us are a great partnership.

The highlights are things like knowing we have helped a shy young girl blossom into a confident performer – it’s a wonderful privilege.  Having the opportunity to pass on my knowledge and love for a sport is a joy and I’m grateful to be giving back to a sport that’s given me lifelong friends and so much happiness.

There is so much to look forward to this year – our first interclub, zone comps, teams and a club concert. Together we will have such a great time!  Thank you so much to our wonderful students and their families, we will be proud of each step you take – large or small.

I encourage anybody who is thinking of opening a new club to follow your heart, have faith in yourself and DO IT! You will be well supported and the whole BJP family is here to help you.  Start planning now for 2014!

Jo Martignago