Past Pupil Jacob Taitte Returns to St Mary’s

St Mary’s was delighted to welcome back former pupil Jacob Taitte during his recent visit home from the University of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA. The University, a Christian institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition, is dedicated to educating students in the humanities, sciences, and professions. Its longstanding motto, Culture for Service, reflects its commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.

Jacob, currently in his junior year at the university, is attending on a sports scholarship and plays as a guard on the 2024–25 Men’s Basketball Roster. Prior to his move to the United States, Jacob played for two seasons with the Reading Rockets in Basketball England’s NBL Division 1.

Having left St Mary’s in 2018, Jacob was warmly welcomed back by Mr Shields, who arranged a tour of the school. During his visit, Jacob met with Kaiden (Year 11), our outgoing Deputy Head Boy, and Kachi (Year 10), our new Head Boy. Both students are exploring future career paths, including potential opportunities in sport, and benefited from Jacob’s insights and experiences.

Jacob also recorded a short congratulatory video, which will be shown at our upcoming prize evening events, offering encouragement and inspiration to our current students.

St Mary’s is proud of its growing legacy in basketball, including former pupil Luol Deng—a two-time NBA All-Star who played for the Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers, and Minnesota Timberwolves.

We look forward to following Jacob’s continued success in basketball and wish him all the best in his academic and sporting journey.