A man who overcame poverty to play professional sport and become an internationally renowned speaker has inspired Carinity Education Rockhampton students by sharing his story of resilience.<\/p>\n
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Eric Bailey visited Carinity Education Rockhampton on September 10 to help officially open the school\u2019s new multi-purpose sports court.<\/p>\n
Born with a bone disease in both knees and abandoned by his birth parents, Eric was raised in South Central Los Angeles, one of the toughest neighbourhoods in America, where crime and drugs were a way of life.<\/p>\n
Despite dealing with racism, gang violence and low socio-economic conditions, Eric worked hard to graduate from school and was drafted to play college basketball. After completing his university studies, he played in Australia\u2019s National Basketball League and now uses the lessons of life and sport to inspire others as a motivational speaker.<\/p>\n
\u201cDespite a difficult upbringing, Eric fought incredible odds to elevate himself into a brighter future. He\u2019s a great role model for our students as his message reinforces that you can overcome a difficult start in life if you make the most of your opportunities,\u201d Carinity Education Rockhampton Principal, Lyn Harland, said.<\/p>\n
Eric\u2019s visit to Carinity Education Rockhampton coincided with State Member for Keppel and Assistant Minister for Education, Brittany Lauga, officially opening the school’s new multi-purpose covered sports court.<\/p>\n
The court has been a popular addition to the school, which gives vulnerable young people a genuine chance at education through a unique approach that features smaller class sizes, youth workers providing support in classrooms and vocational education opportunities such as tourism and hospitality.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs a special assistance school, we are growing rapidly with now more than 130 students enrolled, up from just 35 when we started in 2016. The multi-purpose sports court is a great asset for us and all the students here love using it,\u201d Lyn said.<\/p>\n
The Queensland Government invested $505,000 into the project to help Carinity build the new court, which can be used for sports including basketball, volleyball, netball, tennis and badminton.<\/p>\n