Fantastic news for Newington Rowing! At the start of Term 4, we will welcome Mr Mike Partridge to the position of Director of Rowing.

Mike is an extremely passionate rower and highly accomplished educator with more than 30 years teaching, coaching and leadership experience in Australia and the United Kingdom.

As a rower, Mike has performed at elite level and represented at the Commonwealth Games in 1986. As an educator, he is a Senior English Teacher with extensive Pastoral experience, the most senior as Deputy Headmaster and Boarding House Master.

As a coach, Mike’s knowledge is extensive having been Director/MIC of Rowing at three schools – Emanuel School (London, UK) for 6 years, Shrewsbury School (Shrewsbury, UK) for 8 years and The Southport School (Southport, QLD) for 5 years. He has had huge success leading numerous podium finishes at The Schools Head of the River (UK) and National Championships of Great Britain. This included Gold in the Junior Eights, Junior Coxless Fours and the Junior Coxless Pairs where he has coached and nurtured 26 students to Great Britain selection. During his time at The Southport School, they won the Brisbane Head of the River and the overall Champion School trophy. He has had podium finishes at Australian Championships with Silver in the Junior Eights, Gold in the Junior Coxless Pairs, Silver in the U23 Single Sculls and Silver in the Junior Single scull.

Mike’s measured, focused and caring style mixed with his extensive experience will be a huge asset to the boys at Newington, at all levels of skill and interest. Speaking about his outlook, he said:

“Coaching has allowed me to develop young athletes and encourage them to reach their potential. My philosophy is not only geared towards the top athletic student. I always aim to create a culture in a school rowing club that means all who row can enjoy the experience.”

Mr James Godfrey
Head of Sport