Ever to Excel facts for kids
"Ever to Excel" is a famous saying that means "always be the best" or "always do your best." It comes from an old Greek phrase, 'αἰὲν ἀριστεύειν' (pronounced aièn aristeúein). Many schools and universities use it as their special motto.
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Where "Ever to Excel" Comes From
This powerful phrase first appeared in a very old Greek poem called the Iliad. It was written by a poet named Homer. The Iliad tells the story of the Trojan War.
A Message from Ancient Greece
In the poem, there's a scene during a big battle. A Greek warrior named Diomedes meets a brave young man from Troy named Glaucus. Diomedes is amazed by Glaucus's courage and asks who he is.
Glaucus explains that his father, Hippolochus, sent him to war with an important message. His father told him to "Ever to excel" and to "do better than others." He also said to bring honor to his family, who were very great. This shows that the phrase is about always trying your hardest and making your family proud.
Who Uses "Ever to Excel" Today?
The idea of "Ever to Excel" is still very popular today. It is the official motto of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff, which is like the main military command in Greece.
Schools and Universities
Many schools and universities around the world use this phrase as their motto. They want their students to always strive for greatness. Some of these places include:
- The University of St Andrews in the United Kingdom
- Caistor Grammar School
- The Edinburgh Academy
- Kelvinside Academy
- Old Scona Academic High School
- Boston College in the United States
Esports and More
Even some modern groups have used this motto. For example, a Finnish Esports organization called ENCE Esports used the phrase in their original logo. Even though their logo changed, they still use "Ever to Excel" as their motto. This shows that the idea of always doing your best is important in many different areas of life.
