But it’s his nearly 50 years of behind-the-scenes teaching and coaching that will be most remembered by three generations of Griffith students. 

Mr Ross has decided to retire from teaching and sports administration at St Patrick’s Catholic School in Griffith, after more than four decades of service.

He commenced his teaching at St Brendan’s school in 1972 and transferred to St Patrick’s when the primary aged male students left St Brendan’s to continue their education at St Patrick’s in 1975. 

“The school has changed enormously since then, especially in terms of the use of technology. But one thing has stayed the same – the students are as much a pleasure to teach now as they’ve always been,”  Mr Ross said. 

During his forty six years of being a staff member of St Brendan’s and St Patrick’s schools, Mr Ross taught over 1000 students. 

“Sir Ross”, as he was affectionately known, was best known for his passion for sports. From his first days at St Patrick’s he organised all school swimming carnivals, athletic carnivals and cross country runs.

He also racked up the runs in local schools cricket, helping to administer primary cricket for decades. His dedication was recognized when a tournament was named after him: The Ross Cricket Competition.

He worked with the NSW Primary Schools Sports Association, to allow the talented students to further their ability by participating in representative sports. 

Mr Ross was soon promoted and became the sports co-ordinator for the Wagga Diocese, where he organised for students from the 26 Catholic schools in the Diocese to participate in carnivals.

Always one to shun the limelight, Mr Ross wasn’t keen to be recognized by the media, but given his immense achievements over a long period of time, his school insisted.

All the staff at St Patrick’s are proud to have “Sir Ross” as one of their own. They wish him the best and hope he leads a more relaxing life.