THE Alex Pullin Stadium naming ceremony at the Mansfield Secondary College last week was an inspirational and moving event to honour the young man everyone knew as “Chumpy.”

Friends, colleagues, teachers, students, family and friends gathered at the stadium which now bears the name of the former student who rose to fame as a twice-world champion snowboarder with Mt Buller his home base.

It soon became clear from the various speeches that Chumpy’s legacy was much more than just his feats on the snow.

Officially opened on February 25, 2022, the dual court stadium facility has two full size basketball courts which can also host netball, badminton and indoor soccer.

Construction of the stadium was a joint $6.94 million project between Mansfield Shire Council, Mansfield Secondary College, and the Victorian Department of Education.

A community engagement survey conducted in 2021 produced overwhelming support for the new stadium to be named after Alex Pullin with the support of his family.

Finally in April this year, the state education minister, Ben Carroll, made the long awaited announcement, that the new facility would be named in honour of Alex Pullin.

The ceremony last week was an official acknowledgment of the naming.

More than 40 invited guests and 90 Mansfield Secondary College students were able to share the inspiration that Chumpy was to so many and hear that he was not only a top sportsperson but also “a champion of young people and life”.

Principal Tim Hall welcomed guests with a small snapshot of the project which was followed by a performance by the Mansfield school band (also known as Blue Curtain).

The band included an original number written by Chumpy, also a passionate musician, “Colour of Your Eyes” which was a moving moment for his parents Chris and Sally sitting in the front row.

Another local connection was Chumpy’s former school teacher and guitar tutor Paul Riley on percussion with daughter Ashlyn on vocals.

School captain Judah Keheller gave an address about the importance of the stadium to students, which has provided other opportunities and removed the need to travel to Shepparton or Benalla.

“This is a milestone we waited for and wanted for a long time,” Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said.

“The name chosen by our community was an overwhelming response; the love and respect for Chumpy is a legacy beyond his sport."

Cr Rabie, remembering a young Chumpy, described him as a “creative soul” who “forged his own path” and was an inspiration to others.

Member for Indi, Dr Helen Haines, in her address said she felt very humbled to be present.

"Memories will be created by students in this place and students will be able to tell others, and more and more champions will be made," said Dr Haines.

An emotional Chris Pullin said his son’s name carries so much pull and he had achieved beyond his pay rate.

He said several athletes born in Mansfield have also gone on to do impressive things.

The example set by Chumpy was so present in the stadium.

“Young people can ask themselves can I dream the dream,” he said.

“Chumpy has given you the course to follow: sport, music or pushing to be the best version of yourself, ask what would Chumpy do," said Mr Pullin.

“My hope is to bring all the plans together to benefit young people in Mansfield."

Mr Pullin is passionate about continuing Chumpy’s legacy by engaging with young people to create programs, sponsorship, securing grants and making connections through the Alex Pullin Stadium.

“I’m proud to see his name up there,” he said.

“For my family through our tears, grief and unspeakable loss, thank you so much Mansfield for giving us this lasting tribute."