In September, New Zealand became champions after the national Futsal team (Futsal Whites) beat Solomon Islands 6-2 for the first time. Amongst the young talent was Patrick Steele, one of our very own First Foundation scholars.
Patrick says, "Winning the OFC Futsal championship was a great experience. The cultures of the other teams we experienced and the playing conditions, I have never played in humidity like that before. We were losing about a kilo of water weight every game, despite drinking an endless amount of water. Definitely one of the most challenging things I have done physically."
The demonstration of dedication during high school is one of the many reasons Steel & Tube chose Patrick for a First Foundation scholarship back in 2018. This opportunity helped fund the first three years of Patrick's Bachelor of Law (LLB), provided a mentor for successful guidance, and paid work experience with Steel & Tube.
"I'm currently in the 4th year of my law degree at Waikato University. The mentorship programme has helped a lot with Futsal, but also reflecting career/study ideas and getting advice on situations outside of uni." Patrick.
In 1998, the First Foundation programme issued its first scholarship, offering financial support and mentorship for academically talented students. Since then, over 750 students across New Zealand have received support to achieve their potential.
Steel & Tube recognised First Foundation as an opportunity to strengthen our community, and ultimately joined the programme in 2017. For the past five years, Steel & Tube have provided six scholarships for family members within the company.
"They're an important way that we can help talented young people within our Steel & Tube community go on to fulfil their potential through higher education." Anna Morris, GM of People & Culture, Steel & Tube
Each scholar received $12,000 of financial assistance towards tertiary fees over a three-year tertiary study period.
Anna shares, "In addition to financial support with fees, we've had the benefit of these young people working with us over their holidays, to also gain valuable work experience and holiday pay – they've always added great value and been a welcome part of our team."
As part of the scholarship, Patrick has been working in Fortress Fasteners Hamilton and Dunedin.
Patrick adds, "So far, I have learnt a lot of practical, real-world knowledge like customer service, and the flexibility with my study is definitely envied. I have made some great friends here in Hamilton and down south, where the guys welcomed me with open arms. I’d like to thank Joe for having me at Fortress Hamilton, I love working there with the team."
"My mother has worked at Fortress Fasteners all my life. From memory 17 years, but I could be wrong. She can get very busy but always manages to get things done no matter how hard. She is what I aspire to be like in life."
"For my future, there's a lot of directions I can see myself headed. New Zealand officially has its first professional Futsal player, Hamish Grey. The pathway he's gone down, I think that's something I would like to achieve. I'm also considering a master's degree in law. For now, it's back to training, studying and working in the gym for the national league." Patrick Steele, Futsal Whites.
If you work within Steel & Tube and need financial support for your child to go on to tertiary study, they could be eligible for the First Foundation scholarship.
Contact peopleandculture@steelandtube.co.nz for more details on this great opportunity.