Few individuals leave behind a legacy as multifaceted and inspiring as Gary Chapman’s. Since joining St. Stithians Boys’ College in 2020, he has epitomised dedication, excellence, and leadership in academics, sports, music, and extracurricular activities. As he prepares for the next chapter of his journey, the St. Stithians community reflects on his outstanding contributions.
Gary’s athletic talents have shone brightest in squash, where he represented the 1st Team from 2021 to 2024, serving as the 1st Seed in his final two years. His achievements include:
- Honours for Squash
- Top 10 selection for the South Africa U19 Schools Team in 2024
- Winner of the 2024 Saints Sports Fest Squash Tournament
- Provincial representation from 2020 to 2024
- Runner-up in the 2022, 2023, and 2024 Top Schools Regional Tournament
- In addition to his dominance in squash, Gary contributed significantly to the College’s cricket teams, playing for both the U16A and 2nd Teams.
A Dux Scholar since Grade 8, Gary consistently achieved top rankings in his class, earning distinctions in multiple subjects and securing a place among the top 1% in the IEB Mathematics Examination (2023). His accolades include:
- Honours for Academics
- Top student in various subjects annually
- Head of the Socratic Club
Gary’s relentless work ethic, curiosity, and collaborative spirit made him not only a top scholar but also a mentor to his peers.
Gary’s talents extended to music, where he attained Grade 7 in piano through the Trinity College of London examinations. His musical highlights include:
- Junior and Senior Musician of the Year (2020–2022)
- 13 distinctions in Trinity College exams
- Active participation in break-time concerts, eisteddfods, and school events
- Membership in the Music Committee (2022–2024)
As Executive Head Prefect of Committees and Head of the Socratic Club, Gary played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of excellence at St Stithians. His leadership recognitions include:
- Socratic Tie
- Headmaster’s Creative Writing Award (Gr 8–Gr 10)
- 2022 Webb Spirit of Siyawela Award
- Best Saints Junior Squash Player (Gr 9)
- Colours and Honours in Academics and Sport
Gary’s interests extend into CAD design, coding, 3D printing, photography, and fitness. His aspirations lie in engineering, with a particular focus on Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Aerospace Engineering. He is considering studying at the University of Pretoria, Stellenbosch University, or internationally at MIT or Stanford, while continuing to compete at an elite level in squash.
The St. Stithians pupil achieved nine distinctions with an impressive average of 93.86%, earning Summa Cum Laude in recognition of their outstanding performance in:
Afrikaans First Additional Language, Accounting, English Home Language, Further Studies Mathematics, Information Technology, Life Orientation, Mathematics, Music Trinity School London and Physical Sciences.
Reflecting on his time at Saints, Gary values the school’s Christian ethos and the lessons in humility, respect, and integrity. He believes that a student with the right mindset can thrive at Saints, embracing all its opportunities.
“My time at Saints has reinforced the importance of humility, respect, and integrity. Being humble reminds me that there are no limits to learning, and we should embrace different perspectives,” said Gary.
Gary envisions a future in Mechanical, Aeronautical, or Aerospace Engineering, with aspirations of founding his own engineering firm or contributing to the renewable energy, automotive, or aerospace industries. He continues to draw inspiration from his family’s academic and professional paths, including his older brother, who is pursuing Honours in Computer Science at the University of Pretoria.
As Gary departs St Stithians, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and excellence. His journey serves as an inspiration to future students, demonstrating that with passion and perseverance, success knows no bounds. The St Stithians community wishes him every success as he reaches for new heights.
The Star