Alex Gitlin, the Executive Head of Reddam House Constantia, has returned victorious from the Western Cape Masters inter-provincial hockey tournament, proudly donning a gold medal after guiding the provincial team to an impressive five consecutive wins. The tournament, which took place in August, showcased not only the team’s prowess in hockey but also exemplified the spirit of teamwork and resilience that Gitlin champions.

For Gitlin the gold medal represented much more than just personal achievement.It is a testament to his long-standing philosophy that sport and leadership are intrinsically linked. “The final was more of a challenge than expected,” Gitlin said, acknowledging the hard work and adaptability that characterised his team’s path to victory. “It’s about cohesion on the field, which is essential for any successful endeavour.”

Passionate about both sport and education, Gitlin balances his administrative duties with coaching the school’s first team boys’ hockey. His commitment to fostering a culture of integrity, ambition, and balance is evident in his coaching approach.

“Playing hockey is my space, where I can be removed from other responsibilities,” he said. “It challenges me to stay fit and present, and it allows me to model what I ask of my students: to show up, stay prepared, and keep learning.”

Originally from the United Kingdom, Gitlin studied at the Universities of Nottingham and Cambridge, before relocating to South Africa to undertake various senior leadership roles in education across Johannesburg and White River. His diverse sporting background, which includes rugby, hockey, and athletics, has significantly influenced his leadership style — one that is collaborative and team-oriented.

“Sport has always given me energy and clarity,” Gitlin said. “Leadership should be distributed and aligned — just like a good hockey team, where everyone has a role and a shared game plan.”

This year has been particularly significant for Reddam House Constantia’s first team boys’ hockey, culminating in remarkable success. Gitlin’s five-year development plan, initiated in 2020, aimed to return the team to the premier league, build a sustainable sporting culture, and cultivate young men of character. With 11 Matrics who have played together since Grade 8, the plan is now bearing fruit. “I have the privilege of leading a group of young men that I look forward to being led by as they assume their own future leadership roles,” he stated emphatically.

Under Gitlin’s leadership, Reddam House Constantia now competes in premier league teams across various sporting codes, a development seen as essential in strengthening the school’s overall academic and cultural performance.

“Sport is a pillar of our philosophy because it builds physiological robustness, psychological wellness, academic performance and social connections,” he explained. “It develops spatial awareness, which aids in critical thinking.”

Gitlin’s proudest moments as a coach transcend victories on the field; they stem from witnessing his players evolve into the leaders that South Africa needs. Reddam House Constantia has achieved significant academic success as well, securing a 96% bachelor pass rate in the 2024 IEB exams and recognition as the top-performing school in mathematics nationally within the Inspired Education Group. “There is space for excellence in both academics and sport – and in the arts too,” Gitlin affirmed. “Get the right people leading an exciting challenge, and a few good people can change the world.”

As a passionate advocate for character development through sport, Gitlin encourages both students and colleagues to get involved and take pride in building something of lasting value at the school. He envisions a future where participation in sport continues to grow, competitive excellence is sustained, and traditions of character and wellness are instilled in all students.

Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Education Group Africa & the Middle East, expressed pride in Gitlin’s accomplishments.

“Alex embodies what Inspired leadership is all about – leading from the front, staying actively involved in the development of students, and pursuing excellence both professionally and personally.”

Nadasen said Gitlin’s contribution to sport at Reddam House Constantia illustrates how the institution cultivates discipline, teamwork, and character alongside academic success. “We are extremely proud of his gold medal victory and the values it represents for the entire group.”

Source link