„We are ISB“ – and we are a team of great personalities: Students, teachers, principals as well as staff. Every now and then we will introduce members of the accadis ISB-family on our website. We will start with the sport teachers. In exciting interviews they explain why they have become sport teachers, what elements of their work they enjoy most and which sport is their favorite sport. Darryl Cormier (DC) will start.
Since when have you been Director of Sports at accadis ISB?
DC: I have been fortunate enough to have been working with accadis International School since January of 2009. From the first moment, I was tasked with the development of the Health and Physical Education department. This included not only meeting, but exceeding the state regulations. I continue to challenge myself and our department to constantly improve on our performances.
What tasks are part of your occupational routine?
DC: We take pride as a department when all day to day aspects, as well as special events, run smoothly. Our department works extremely well together and we help each other out regularly to ensure that everything functions accordingly. Of course, included amongst this are planning, setting up, checking the hall, delegating tasks to the team, etc. Also, planning events, grading, communicating with parents and organizations such as PTA or Celebration Committee, etc., and of course... TEACH SPORTS.
What elements of your work do you enjoy most?
DC: I enjoy coming to work everyday in my accadis sports clothing and being a role model for students. With music and high energy we demonstrate the positives of living an active and healthy lifestyle inside and outside of the Sports Hall.
Did you always want to become a sports teacher?
DC: I always wanted to be a professional athlete! However, I knew that even professional athletes needed a back up plan. In High School I had an amazing sports teacher and mentor who came to school every day, ready for class in sports clothes. I remember one day saying „you have the best job in the world!“ It was at that point I knew what I wanted to do.
What are your priorities in teaching?
DC: Respect! After that, I strive to learn at least one new thing every day from students and colleagues. Safety and the activity permitting, I try to allow the students to be creative. Ultimately we focus on enhancing the enjoyment for movement and activity.
What is your favorite sport?
DC: Growing up I loved Baseball and Hockey. Currently my passion is running and setting new and challenging goals. However, I can honestly say that I enjoy all sports! We provide the students with an enormous variety of activities throughout the year, and we are always active in promoting activities.
What do you think is the main essence in sports – to win, team work or helping your body stay healthy?
DC: Our department philosophy is that every student will enjoy sports! I personally believe that a healthy and active lifestyle is a lifetime journey. This journey should start with school sports and never end. I also believe that we need to be flexible and willing to adapt to change and new challenges, all of which are qualities we instill in our students. I feel there is an activity for everyone, and I try to show our students as many of these as possible.
Dear Darryl Cormier, thank you very much for the interview!
Photos (c) Darryl Cormier and accadis ISB