There are seasons in sport where everything clicks, and for Year 9 student Archie Grant, this has been one of them.

In just a matter of weeks, Archie broke two Victorian Country records in the 800m and 1500m, adding to an already outstanding run of performances. In December, he claimed the All Schools National Championship title in the 800m and placed third in the 1500m. More recently, he set a new Ballarat record in the 3000m, and now holds the Under 15 Ballarat records in the 800m, 1500m and 3000m.

Archie sensed early that something special was building.

“I realised about two or three months ago,” he said. “I had no injuries and things were feeling good.”

Behind these results sits a disciplined and consistent training routine. A typical week includes steady runs, interval sessions and competition, with training at Llanberris Athletics Track, midweek sessions such as 4 x 600 metres, and longer runs on Sundays building endurance.

When the pressure builds in the final stages of a race, Archie keeps his mindset simple.

“Stay relaxed. Finish hard. That’s the mindset for every race, regardless of distance.”

Balancing this level of training with school requires both commitment and maturity. Archie credits those around him for helping him reach this point.

“Mum and my coaches.”

While his achievements on the track have been exceptional, this season has also marked an important step in Archie’s personal growth. Recently, he spoke independently about his journey, reflecting a growing confidence in both his ability and his voice — a reminder of the importance of recognising and supporting young people as they develop.

When asked what it means to represent Damascus College, his response was simple.

“Pride.”

This season has reinforced a clear and powerful lesson.

“Keep pushing, even when things get hard.”

Looking ahead, Archie is focused on representing Damascus College at the Australian National Championships, with a long-term goal firmly in sight.

“I want to represent Australia at the Olympics.”

Archie’s season has been defined not only by records and results, but by discipline, humility and a strong sense of purpose. Damascus College is proud of the way he continues to grow, both as an athlete and as a young person, and of the way he represents the College community.