Olympic gold medalists and sisters, Jessica and Noemie Fox, returned to their alma mater, Blaxland High School, on August 4, 2023, to inspire students during Public Education Week. The visit provided an opportunity for students to learn from the champions about their journeys in sports and academics.
A group of students from Blaxland High’s Talented Athlete Program engaged with the athletes, asking questions related to training, nutrition, and motivation. Both sisters emphasized the crucial role their former school played in their success. “The amazing teachers here at Blaxland High supported us so well. My high school years were some of the best of my life,” Jessica shared. “I loved being in school musicals, forming my core friendship group, and I am so grateful for the values the school gave me. Sometimes public schools can get a bad rap, but I am so proud to be from here.”
Emphasizing Core Values
Noemie Fox highlighted how the mottos from her previous schools influenced her career. “Both Leonay Public School’s motto, ‘To do my best,’ and Blaxland High’s, ‘Effort earns success,’ have motivated me throughout my career,” she stated. “We were very lucky to have had such a great time at school.”
For Chelsea Brown, a Year 10 student and competitive cheerleader, the Fox sisters’ presence serves as an inspiring example. “It’s so inspiring to have them to look up to. Blaxland High shows each and every student so much support and encouragement, no matter what they aim for. They just want to see us succeed. I’m really proud to go to school here,” Chelsea remarked.
The principal of Blaxland High, Emma Le Marquand, expressed her pride in welcoming the Fox sisters back for the first time since their Olympic victories. “Our whole community is incredibly proud of Jess and Noemie, and it’s fantastic to have them return and speak to our students,” she noted. “What better time than Public Education Week to have them come and speak to our Talented Athlete Program students? They’re prime examples of the power of public education and a great representation of the endlessly impressive students here at Blaxland High School.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Jessica Fox, a four-time Olympic champion, balanced her studies and sports while preparing for the 2012 London Summer Olympics. In addition to training at an elite level, she achieved remarkable academic success, scoring first in the state in PDHPE and earning an ATAR of 99.1, ultimately securing a bronze medal at the Olympics.
Noemie Fox, who triumphed in the Kayak Cross event at the 2024 Paris Olympics, also juggled her academic and athletic commitments successfully. Her dedication earned her a place on the Distinguished Achievers List for three subjects in 2014 while she trained professionally.
This visit not only allowed the Fox sisters to reflect on their impressive journeys but also served as a reminder of the impact of public education on individual achievement. Their stories of perseverance and support continue to motivate young athletes at Blaxland High School.
