This afternoon, our rugby league boys from Cooma North Public School set out on the road for a match against Goulburn North PS. The weather was crisp, the field was ready, and our boys played their hearts out—securing a hard-fought 8–6 victory.

But as proud as we were of the win, it was what happened after the final whistle that truly showed us what these boys are made of.

With the game over and the team walking back to their bus, laughter and chatter filled the street. Spirits were high. But then, something caught their attention: just across the road, an elderly man—later introduced as Mr. Douglas, 81 years old—was slowly but steadily moving a large woodpile from the front of his property to the back.

No complaint, no sign, no request for help. Just quiet determination.

And in that moment, without needing a nudge or suggestion, our boys—and their dads—put down their gear and walked over. There were no dramatic gestures. No fuss. Just action.

They surrounded the pile and got to work. Logs were lifted, arms filled, and what would have taken Mr. Douglas hours, maybe even days, was finished in under 20 minutes.

The man was stunned. Neighbors peeked from their windows. The bus driver gave a thumbs-up. And every parent standing nearby stood a little taller.

No one asked for recognition. There were no phones out. Just a group of boys, muddy from the match, helping someone because it was the right thing to do.

And that’s what makes this team—this school—so special.

It’s not just about the scoreboard. It’s not about the tries or the tackles. It’s about the kind of young men these boys are growing into. Kind. Observant. Willing to step up without being asked.

Boys, I hope you know how proud we are of you—not just for your win today, but for the hearts you showed afterward. I know I speak for every teacher, every parent, and every classmate back home when I say: outstanding work. You’ve not only won the game—you’ve won our hearts.