Parish Priest joins ranks with Notre Dame Crusaders

St Benedict’s Parish Priest, Fr Michael De Stoop has pulled on his footy boots and joined ranks with The University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney’s Rugby club – the Crusaders. Fr De Stoop became parish priest of St Benedict’s (located on the Notre Dame Broadway Campus) early this year and immediately joined the burgeoning club’s 2nd XV. He has been playing Rugby Union on and off for over 25 years and jumped at the opportunity to play for Notre Dame. “I’m really enjoying being a part of the team. I like the fitness, team spirit and getting bruised for a good cause. “Playing for the Crusaders is great because each player possesses good skills and determination. For a small university Notre Dame has a very competitive rugby side,” said Fr De Stoop. Recently Fr De Stoop celebrated his eighth anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood. He was presented with a Crusaders Rugby Jersey by Club President, Mark Yum. “Fr De Stoop has been a great addition to our club. He’s a team player and has really had an impact on our games as a flanker (even though he initially wanted to play wing). Whist he is almost the oldest on the team he is probably one of the fittest,” said Mark. Media contact: Moira Saunders 02 8204 440