At yesterday’s Valedictory Muster, two of our graduating Year 12 students, Yongen Song and Ethan Herbert, were recognised with the 2026 Keys Award in acknowledgement of their outstanding sporting achievements and contributions to St Peter’s College.
The Keys Award has never been about winning alone. Since its introduction in 1979, it has recognised excellence in co-curricular life alongside attitude, responsibility and the ability to positively influence others. It remains the School’s highest honour for achievement outside the classroom, awarded only when its criteria are fully met.
Both students have excelled at the highest levels of their respective sports while continuing to make valuable contributions to school life. Their achievements, commitment and leadership are reflected in the following award citations.
Yongen Song
Yongen Song has achieved remarkable success at state, national and international levels in ice hockey.
Having represented South Australia at Under 15 and Under 18 levels over several years, he was a member of the Under 18 team that claimed the 2026 National Championship, serving as assistant captain. This followed a silver medal at the 2025 National Championships and selection in the Australian Under 15 All Star team, which won the 2023 Singapore Ice Hockey Classic.
His achievements also include selection in the Australian Under 18 National Team for the 2026 World Championships and competing for Adelaide Adrenaline in the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL), Australia’s premier men’s ice hockey competition, where he was named Rookie of the Year in 2026. He was also recognised with the Hardest Worker Award at the 2025 National Under 18 Development Camp.
Despite the considerable demands of competing at this level, Yongen has remained a dedicated and valued contributor to sport at St Peter’s College. He has represented the School in both First XI Hockey and Open A Water Polo. Across his schooling, he has also participated in badminton, basketball, cricket, rowing, swimming and table tennis.
Beyond his sporting achievements, he has served as a House Prefect of Woodcock House, demonstrating humility, leadership and a genuine commitment to others.
His achievements are a testament not only to his exceptional sporting ability, but also to his determination, work ethic and willingness to contribute to the life of SPSC.
Ethan Herbert
Ethan Herbert has excelled in Australian Rules Football, establishing himself among Australia’s most promising young players.
His representative journey began with selection in the South Australian Under 15 State Team in 2023, followed by All Australian honours at Under 16 level in 2024. His progression continued with selection in the South Australian Under 18 State Squad as a bottom-age player in 2025, alongside membership of the prestigious Marsh AFL National Academy in both 2025 and 2026.
His achievements have reached new heights this year, being appointed Vice-Captain of the South Australian Under 18 State Team and receiving an invitation to the AFL National Draft Combine, recognising his standing among Australia’s leading draft prospects. At club level, he has progressed into the North Adelaide Senior Squad and earned selection in the Under 18 Leadership Group.
Despite the considerable demands of competing at this level, Ethan has remained a dedicated and valued contributor to sport at St Peter’s College. He has represented the College in both First XVIII Football and Open A Basketball, serving as Vice-Captain of the latter and earning Basketball Symbols across three consecutive years. In 2026, he was also awarded the Rob Phillips Medal as the Most Valuable Player in the Intercollegiate Basketball match. Across his schooling, he has also participated in cricket, rowing and water polo.
Beyond his impressive sporting achievements, he has demonstrated outstanding leadership, humility and commitment, earning the respect of his coaches, teammates and teachers alike.
His journey is a testament to his determination, discipline and work ethic. As he looks towards the upcoming AFL National Draft, we congratulate him on his remarkable achievements and wish him every success in the exciting opportunities ahead.
