‘Beacon of inspiration’: Students honour Lilie’s unique teaching gift

She could turn a training session full of sweat and grunt into a sea of smiles and ­laughter. Such was the mastery of Lilie James, a coach with dozens of aspiring water polo champions in her hands.

She could turn a training session full of sweat and grunt into a sea of smiles and ­laughter.

Such was the mastery and magnetism of Lilie James, a young woman who had the dreams of dozens of aspiring water polo champions in her hands.

In the days after her brutal death, and as police tried to piece together the puzzle of her ghastly murder, Ms James’ proteges at St Andrew’s Cathedral School channelled their sorrow and disbelief into messages of appreciation.

The Sydney school has given The Sunday Telegraph permission to share some of the hundreds of letters, messages and cards in the makeshift memorial inside the school foyer.

“Lilie was not just a coach, she was a sister, a friend, and a daughter she was a beacon of inspiration, transforming every training session into a remarkable journey of joy and growth adding new fun ways to learn skills,” wrote one heartbroken student.

“Lilie turned the bus rides to and from water polo into enjoyable and inclusive experiences for all. Her dedication to fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere made every journey memorable up till her last, her kindness and inclusiveness will always serve as an inspiration to us all.”

St Andrew's Cathedral School students drop off flowers as they return to school for the first time since Lilie’s death. Picture: Rohan Kelly

The student described Ms James, 21, as “a coach like no other”.

With her boundless energy and a heart full of kindness, she made each training session a memorable experience.

The flowers left in honor of teacher Lilie James outside St Andrews School. Picture: NCA Newswire

Her infectious enthusiasm spread like wildfire, igniting a spark within all those fortunate enough to be under her guidance.

“Lilie had a unique gift for turning sweat and effort into smiles and laughter for all who were involved. Every training session with Lilie was an adventure, a moment to look forward to.”

Another student described Ms James as “not just an extra teacher” that was there throughout each sport lesson, “she was someone that students could rely on to talk to no matter what it was about”.

“Lilie would always talk to everyone and ensure everyone was included at all times and always made sport fun even if it wasn’t a sport that we enjoyed.”

Lilie James. Picture: Facebook

Lilie with her brother Max.

Another credited Ms James as a key reason for her love of water polo.

“Lillie was such an amazing water polo coach. She was always incredibly positive and always so supportive of everyone.

“She was one of the reasons that I loved water polo and she made a significant impact on my life and the life of everyone else that she coached. Lillie was one of the most encouraging, kindest person that I knew. “

Another student described feeling “privileged” to have been taught by Miss James.

Flowers outside St Andrews School. Picture: NCA Newswire

“You brightened up our sports lessons with your laughter. Sleep in heavenly peace.”

Parents also shared their pain.

“She was a wonderful teacher to many including my son for PDHPE and she will be dearly missed.”

Another describes Lilie as “such a lovely, vibrant young woman”.

“We are new to St Andrew’s this year, and she was the staff member at St Andrew’s that I had spoken to the most,” the parent said.

Students return to the school for the first time, bringing flowers. Picture: Rohan Kelly

“Lilie was such a great representative for the school — kind, encouraging and fun.

“I was so happy that she was my son’s coach. I saw her almost every week at swimming training in term 1, and at weekly water polo matches in term three.

“Lilie always had a smile on her face and an encouraging word for her students. We will remember this beautiful, kind young lady with great thankfulness.”

Ms James was killed inside the staff bathrooms at St Andrew’s Cathedral School on October 25 by ex-boyfriend and colleague Paul Thijssen after she returned sport equipment following a session with students.

Thijssen, 24, killed himself by jumping off a coastal cliff.
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