Future Fighting Irish got a glimpse of life at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School during the annual Open House on February 19, 2025. The event welcomed hundreds of Grade 7 and 8 students and their families from across Sarnia-Lambton, offering them the opportunity to explore the school’s facilities, meet staff and students, and experience the vibrant St. Pat’s community firsthand.

The evening began with a prayer and a warm welcome from Principal Daniella Mancusi, who spoke about the strong sense of belonging and opportunity that comes with being part of the St. Pat’s school community. “It’s always exciting to open our doors to future Fighting Irish and showcase all that St. Pat’s has to offer,” said Mancusi. “We can’t wait to welcome these students back in September as they begin their high school journey with us.”

Families toured the school at their own pace, engaging with staff and students while learning about the many programs and opportunities available at St. Pat’s. Representatives from the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs, Indigenous Education, and travel-for-credit programs were on hand to share information and answer questions. Students also had the chance to meet sports coaches, interact with cast and crew members from the school’s upcoming production of Mamma Mia!, and explore a wide variety of extracurricular activities.

“The Open House is always such a special night,” said Superintendent of Education Chris Kehoe. “It’s a chance for students to picture themselves here, to see what makes St. Pat’s such an incredible place. And with the junior boys’ basketball finals happening at the same time, the energy in the gym was electric. Watching the Fighting Irish pull off such an exciting win gave future students a real taste of the school spirit and camaraderie that define this community.”

As the Open House was taking place, the Senior Boys faced off against Northern in a high-stakes LKSSAA final, drawing a large crowd of students, staff, and Open House attendees. The game was a nail-biter, with both teams battling back and forth for the lead. In the end, St. Pat’s secured a dramatic 71-68 victory, further fueling the electric atmosphere in the building.

Director of Education Scott Johnson applauded the event, emphasizing the strong sense of community that sets St. Pat’s apart. “St. Pat’s isn’t just a school—it’s a family. The dedication, support, and energy of the Fighting Irish were on full display, from the warm welcome at the Open House to the incredible excitement of the basketball finals. Nights like these show exactly why St. Pat’s is such a special place to learn and grow.”

With another successful Open House in the books, the excitement continues to build for the next generation of Fighting Irish as they prepare to walk the halls of St. Pat’s in the fall.