Boston, DC represented at eastern seaboard reunion

The first-ever Selwyn House reunion for Old Boys living in the eastern U.S. resulted in a spirited conversation with Chris Bruneau '87, who joined the online group from Washington, D.C., and George Sopel '86, who logged in from Brookline, MA, just outside of Boston.

 

Joining the Old Boys were staffers Mike Downey, Peter Govan, Mike Maurovich, Sharon Cozens, Mary Ann Cloherty and Richard Wills, along with OBA President Josh Wisenthal ’99.

 

There were lots of laughs when the conversation turned to old times and stories of rugby tours, phys. ed. classes and bus trips in days gone by when risk management was less of a consideration. Nowadays, with more coaches and/or a physiotherapist present for every athletic event, there is less stress on the head coach. “Teaching is easier these days,” said Coach Govan, who started at Selwyn House in 1972.

 

Headmaster Mike Downey brought the Old Boys up to date on how the school is coping in COVID times. After being locked out of school in the spring, the students now appreciate being back at school, even with restrictions like not having competitive sports. “The kids like being at school,” he said. “The mood in Grade 11 is incredible.”

 

“I’ve never seen happier kids,” agreed Coach Govan.

 

Old Boys’ Association President Josh Wisenthal ’99 listed the initiatives that are being planned by the OBA and the efforts aimed at drawing a broader cross-section of Old Boys into the organization’s activities. The May 18 launch of the OBA Speaker Series, for example, will feature sports professionals discussing “The Future of Sports.”

 

“Being part of the OBA opens up a network to you that is incredible,” said Josh. “Having a really strong network of people who will never say ‘no’ when an Old Boy calls.”

 

“It’s nice to know when I call someone that I’ll get a callback,” said George Sopel. “I’m going to get that person’s ear and, likewise, I will grant that time if it’s asked of me.”

 

Chris Bruneau contacted the Advancement Office the following day and volunteered to be the U.S. Eastern Seaboard Class Chapter Representative to help build the chapter and offer more regular opportunities to get together.