Villa View: Issue 15/22

Welcome to Term 4

This week we held a College gathering that celebrated the academic performance of our Seniors who studied the Diploma of Business throughout Year 11 and 12 here at the College. It was an excellent snapshot of what can be achieved through focused effort and collaborative learning practice. Each of the 20 enrolled students, and we had a 100% graduation rate, achieved the Diploma.  Hard work, with good advice and guidance from the College, has placed them “ready to launch” into post school life. As such for our Seniors it is the first mark of what is to come. This term, above all terms, they are called to move forward from establishing a legacy toward actually embedding their learning and transforming it into a concrete pathway to 2023 and beyond. It was so impressive to see over 40 boys engage in external academic preparations over the September holiday break and as always, our staff who were present with them to guide and challenge toward their success.

This afternoon and tomorrow, we also have the final AIC event of 2022, the AIC Track & Field Championship. In some ways Athletics has seemingly gone under the radar a little in the AIC calendar over the years as sports such as AFL and Rugby League have come to prominence but its importance in school life and to individual students is not lost nor discounted.

In introducing the Open Athletic squad Mr Michael Garske reflected on two phenomenal Villanova athletes in Brian Emerson who still holds TAS/AIC records in 100 and 200m events from the early eighties and Josh Robinson who post Villanova went on to represent Australia at World Championships and Commonwealth Games. In these two alumni our boys have outstanding role models in the outcomes of commitment, effort and accountability.

In conclusion, across this final term our focus is on completing the years learning and development for each boy. Villanova has an identity in the collective, that is unmistakable across our 74 years of life, but we have a responsibility that is individual. To care for, challenge, mature and develop the character, intellect, and spirit of each individual boy. As such that is the key focus of this term, having each boy analyse and challenge themselves around what have I learned this year and what is still to be developed and developed more deeply.

Mr Paul Begg, Principal

In keeping with the spirit of Reconciliation, Villanova College acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we stand.  We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging.  This has always been, and always will be, a place of teaching and learning connected to country, culture and community. 

This week the Junior School engages with a focus on “Commit to Self-Improvement” as part of our pastoral development.  Now, just who rolled their eyes when reading that?  Be honest!  Come on, let me help you find the strength to unpack what that means for us.  Small steps lead to great leaps, I promise.

Coming back from the September holidays, I know one thing is true.  We are happy, refreshed and comforted by the time we have had to do what?  Self-care – the kind of attention we need after the hard work of Term 3 left us a little out of breath and with very few kilometres in the petrol tank of patience.  So we find a series to binge on a streaming service, put our heads into a book, slip on the headgear and play our gaming devices uninterrupted or use nature – beach, camping, interstate or international travel – to escape.  All of this, even the treat of a leisurely breakfast, lunch or dinner at a favourite restaurant is a part of improving our mental health and well-being.  If only life could continue down that path, however my waistline and screen time needs to balance out with returning to work.  I need to save that kind of vacation vibe for December.

So on Monday, a public holiday, I came into work where I could focus on my Term 4 goals.  How am I going to improve myself – as a teacher, leader and positive influence on the students, staff and parent community?  It’s a very broad net to cast, however it’s no different to the boys who have so many subjects at school and also simultaneously have co-curricular commitments as well as family responsibilities.  This also applies to parents – who have paid work commitments, a household to coordinate and multiple schedules to run with regards to homework, belongings, drop offs and pick-ups.  However, we have so much going on, where do we start?

Keep it simple.  Narrow down what is vital, or of high personal interest.  Allow yourself the chance to be inspired.  For me, that’s always about spending time in the yard with my sons.  That’s what makes me happy.  Conversations about life, holidays, sport results, new haircuts and some laughs when I test drive my dad jokes.  Building relationships.  Looking out for who is a little nervous returning to school.  Making sure that playtime is safe after a few weeks of maybe a little more “street rules” away from College gates.

Term 4 is always a time to check in with teaching staff about new opportunities and goals for their professional pathways in the future.  I need to make appointments and listen carefully to what’s important to them at this stage of their career.  For you at home, I need to make sure that we have a strong, positive finish to 2022.  The next eight weeks are about really showing your sons just how much they have learnt.  How important those “bumps” have been in making changes.  Maybe it’s about supporting new strategies to prove that changes are good – it’s a chance to grow.

Once I get my interests defined, then it’s all about “how”, “when”, “who” and “what steps” will make these visions a reality.  Life is busy.  Plans need solid communication and commitment.  Not everybody has a Maria Mascadri, however I know just how much she helps me at this time of the year.  The Junior School Disco, Friday of Week 2, is one of her numerous commitments to making sure that the Junior School has the fun factor and the rites of passage that boys will talk about long after they graduate.  So whilst she coordinates bookings, decorations and the glamour that is disco, I know she is my helping hand to keep me accountable.  That’s so important.  Having someone who knows your vision and is a support person for keeping you honest means you have a far greater chance of meeting your targets.

So to the Junior School community, set your goals for Term 4.  What do you wish for in terms of academic achievement?  One subject, clear target identified.  Make it challenging but reasonable.  Who will help you?  What steps make this possible?  How will you know you are on the right track?  What kind of memories do you want to make in the classroom with your presence over the next two months?  Kindness, thoughtfulness and integrity.  The blessing that is a boy who puts others first.  The angel that takes care of the fundamentals such as a simple tidy up or returning of belongings in a room.  Small things matter the most.  Which classmate could you have a positive impact on – someone a little less known to you than the best mates you hang around with.  Can you be brave enough to put a smile on a new friend’s face?  Start with simple ideas – sharing pencils, picking them as a partner for a class task, paying a compliment.

We can improve all the time.  It can be planned or spontaneous.  There is no pressure or expectation apart from trying your best.  Making these moments matter because you are blessed enough to be around people who are also ready to show you their best side.

Commit to yourself one goal, for the day, week or term.  Do something special.  Share your experience or maybe keep it to yourself.  Surprise yourself with something different, new or out of the ordinary and just see what happens.  Chances are, you will light up inside just like the disco ball is going to sparkle in Goold Hall next Friday – enjoy!

­­­Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

As the new term commences, I return to work following my long service leave. I extend a warm thanks to Mr Sean O’Neill who acted in my role, and to those staff who also assisted in my absence.

My long service leave was an incredible opportunity for me to relax, refresh and spend valuable time with my young family. We had the opportunity to caravan around Queensland, with highlights including Carnarvon Gorge, Charleville, Longreach, the dinosaur trail (Winton/Richmond/Hughenden) and a week on Magnetic Island off the coast of Townsville. Our adventure highlighted the incredible sights that our State has to offer and the rural communities that both look after each other and welcome guests with open arms.

As I returned to Villanova this week, I was immediately reminded of how much growth can occur for Middle School boys in such a short time. Having not seen the boys since June, the physical growth and enhanced maturity was most certainly noticeable. This was especially the case for our Year 9 students who sit just eight weeks out from their transition to Senior School. I’ve been very impressed with their ongoing development and see all the makings of incredible young men.

As we all know, Term 4 is often a fast-paced period of time. This week we’ve been encouraging to boys to jump immediately into their positive and proactive work habits, and not wait for the intensity of assessment deadlines before ramping up their work ethic. If parents ever feel their sons may require a little extra encouragement from the College, please reach out to your son’s teachers, or their relevant Pastoral Area Leader.

All the best for the term ahead.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Welcome back all Senior School families to Term 4. I hope there were opportunities for relaxation, reflection, and renewal of intentions for the final part of the 2022 journey ahead of us across these next eight weeks. It is an incredibly busy final term across the Senior School with the Year 12s coming into the twilight hours of their time at Villanova with external exams and their rites of passage finishing rituals and ceremonies; the Year 11s commencing their Unit 3 studies and having their Senior Commissioning at the end of Week 3 and Year 10s continuing their path to positive growth and character development.

The focus this week, particularly with our Year 12 students has been to ‘not count the days but to make the days count’. There is often a tendency to race to see the finish line in sight (especially in the final term) and neglect making each day at Villanova worthy of one’s commitment to continual self-improvement and growth. For our Year 11 students who will soon be our Seniors, it is paramount that Term 4 is maximised to establish the strongest of foundations for success in 2023. Best wishes to all Senior School students for the term ahead and we continue to pray for our Year 12 students as they begin to realise that the familiar corridors of Villanova College won’t be a part of their lives next year.

The Courage to be Vulnerable
One of the highlights of my holiday period of watching sport was experiencing the final professional match in the storied career of tennis great Roger Federer. Roger has been one of my sporting idols, not only for his magnificent talent and gracefulness as a tennis player but for the way he has conducted himself on and off the court- the epitome of class and integrity.

It was at the conclusion of his final match at the Laver Cup- partnering long-time rival and friend Rafael Nadal in a doubles match- which I wanted to highlight in my column this week about the incredible demonstration of the courage to be vulnerable. There is a remarkable picture taken of both Federer and Nadal, sitting together holding each other’s hand, tears of emotion in each other’s eyes. A photo for the ages. According to Athlete Wellbeing and Engagement Advisor Greg Hire, these two icons of the sport of tennis have created an image of healthy masculinity, compassionate ambition and humble success in promoting vulnerability and normalising emotions. He goes on to say:

“Males have been conditioned to disconnect emotionally for decades. This narrative has claimed many lives and continues to paralyse so many men of all ages from speaking up and asking for help because of fear. Fear of being judged, seen as weak or soft, viewed as not man enough, tough enough, strong enough and worthy! This narrative is toxic, destructive and dangerous. It’s time we created a new narrative that supports and encourages males of all ages to be vulnerable, authentic, open, honest and most importantly emotionally connected as human beings without judgement. We owe this to ourselves and future generations of young boys who will become men, husbands, fathers, uncles, grandfathers, leaders, coaches and role models. Our ability to feel, to think, to express AND to cry is fundamental to empowering a new generation of healthy, happy and emotionally connected and expressive males!”

Roger’s legacy will be enduring for many reasons however the courage throughout his career to be his authentic self and be comfortable showing emotions is something that I will remember as much as his beautiful backhand.

“It doesn’t matter who or how many come at you, you have to be you. Confidently. Authentically. Bravely.” – Ryan Holiday

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

There is something quite powerful when you are running a race of rounding the final corner and seeing the finish line ahead.  It is the time for the final push, the exerting of all our effort, and the enjoyment of a crowd calling out their encouragement.  I remember finishing the Great Vic Bike Ride, some 550km with students in Victoria and as we rode towards the finish line, I was overwhelmed by the achievement for all my students, and for myself.  Term 4 is our shortest of the year, but it my favourite for other reasons.

We have great spring weather, longer days, and many events and rituals that mark the ways our students have learnt and grown across the year.  There is much to celebrate and be grateful for, and with the short number of weeks there is also a sense that we are on the home stretch.  It is time to ensure that our dreams and aspirations for the year come to fruition, so it also means it is a time to really work hard.  This coincides with our focus of the week being ‘Commitment.’  At our College assembly we explored what ‘commitment’ means and how it is expressed through the way we apply ourselves, the effort and determination we use, and the way that we work with others.  We explored the idea of running the home stretch – that sprint at the end of the race as the competitors come around the corner and give everything they have got to the final metres.  Indeed St Paul when he was looking back on his life wrote the following:

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4:7

We have been inviting our students to consider how they are going to finish the race and to get in and start that run!  Across 2022 our theme has been ‘ongoing conversion’, and in the Augustinian tradition at Villanova College, this ongoing conversion occurs through the application of our four values of humility, interiority, community and restless search for truth.  Often as things get busy what we drop out of our lives is the valuable time spent in reflection.  We have an Augustinian examen that provides support for moments of reflection to be built into our days and over this term we will be inviting the students to do this regularly in their morning pastoral.

The following guidelines are suggested for completing the Augustinian examen:

• Set aside a few moments each day
• Read the questions one by one or skip around to those that speak to you in the moment
• Listen to how you are responding – physically, emotionally, spiritually, and sit with what you hear.
• Notice how greater awareness of what you value transforms you as you move through the journey of life…

The following questions in the Augustinian examen relate specifically to Ongoing Conversion:

• How did I change and become more whole today?
• How was I invited to change my opinion or behaviour?
• When today did I know that I am a good person?
• What or who enriched my life today?
• When have I done something to make a positive contribution to others?
• What am I invited to do next?

Practicing the Augustinian examen is a great way to build in some time of reflection in your day.  It can be a powerful tool for our spiritual wellbeing, our relationship with God and our ongoing conversion.  Our Year 6s led us in the following prayer on assembly.  I hope it nourishes all our community.

Loving God,
Let me know myself, let me know you.
Show me the way; guide my steps to reach my goals.  For I am restless without you.
Teach me to commit myself to love learning, to be respectful of others, to love myself and to love you.  Amen

Pastoral Masses
At Villanova College, our community is extremely fortunate to have two Augustinians on staff.  Fr Peter Wieneke and Fr Saldie Resolado celebrate Mass every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning and our staff, students and parents are welcome to attend with us in the College chapel.  Each day a pastoral group or extra-curricular group is invited to attend and to lead the readings, prayers and take on the roles in the Mass such as offertory.  Our pastoral teachers attend with their classes and these Masses are a great way of building community in our pastoral groups and to provide the opportunity to experience Eucharist and time of prayer and reflection together.

This term the following groups are attending:

Please ensure your son attends on his assigned day, and parents and grandparents know that you are most welcome to join us!

Today, Year 6 Blue had great attendance at the Mass, and we also had a number of parents and grandparents join us.  It was a great way to celebrate our community and the boys so clearly were thinking far beyond themselves in their prayers for our Year 12s in their upcoming exams; our families; those struggling in our wider community and for our world leaders.

Ministries across Term 4
In the ministries there are plenty of events in the weeks ahead and opportunities for our students to engage in service within and beyond our community.

• The Year 10s have the opportunity to apply for the Head 2 Heart Program that we run in partnership with Loreto College and Edmund Rice Camps that provides an opportunity for our students to buddy with a child who has experienced much hardship and provide them with a fun weekend camp experience in the first weekend in November.
• Our Middle School will be involved with a tree planting project at Villanova Park linked with Arbor Day.
• Our Vinnies and YAYM students will be ensuring all pastoral classes have the opportunity to prepare our Christmas Vinnies baskets which will go to families in need in our wider community.
• On Thursday mornings our Year 11 students will continue to serve breakfast to people experiencing homelessness at Emmanuel City Mission.
• Our AFAS group is aiming to fill boxes of goods to be donated to the school community of Divino Amore. Pre-loved items are welcomed and worth more than what we imagine!
• Our Middle School will have the opportunity to participate in an online Vinnies sleep out experience.

Hopefully, all students can find a way to engage in these and other student led initiatives.

Mrs Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

As I write this column it is hard to believe that it is the first week back after vacation and we are on the ‘run home’ to Christmas. With only eight weeks remaining in the school year,  there is no doubt that it will be a busy term ahead.

Our swim program continues this week with the addition of the new 2023 students who have been invited and welcomed into our program.

The AIC Track and Field Championships will run over a two-day period commencing today and tomorrow at QSAC. An AIC Track & Field assembly and team barbecue was held yesterday in order to acknowledge the team and pass on our best wishes.  Please note – we have had changes to the team since yesterday, please refer to the Parent Lounge or Student Café portals to view the updated team under the links tab. I wish all our athletes the very best over the Championship period. Please see below more information pertaining to the Track and Field Championship.

Our First VI Volleyball squad started training in Week 9 of Term 3 with an extended squad of boys. Our teams will be training hard on the court during Term 4 and will test their skills in some pre-season matches as well as participation in the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup.

Villa’s ‘Emerging Cricket Talent Squad’ recommences their cricket training program this week. The coaching staff are very excited by the attendance and positive attitude given by all players. We wish this playing group all the best over the coming cricket season.

The Andrew Slack and Ben Mowen rugby squads commence their strength and conditioning and field session programs next week. The First XI/Second XI Football squad will commence their first trial sessions towards the end of this term. More information regarding the football program will be given in the weeks to come.

Next week we will commence all cricket, AFL and volleyball trials in the hope to get all teams selected before we break for Christmas. After the trial week we have organised several important internal and external trial games to further assist our coaches with team selections. Please see below the important dates.  Note, these trials are for current Year 5 – 11 students moving into Year 6 – 12 next year. It is important that the boys attend the trials in the year that they will be in in 2023, therefore, all Year 5 boys should attend the Year 6 trials and so forth for all other year levels.

An online sign-on link has been published for many weeks now. The due date for all sign-ons is tomorrow. At this stage, the sign-on numbers are down which indicates many students have still not signed on. Please find the sign-on link below (or via the website or via the college app) as well as all other important trial date/schedule information for next week and beyond.

As always, we encourage all students to get involved in the sports program and to enjoy the experience along the way.

Please Return Basketball Hire Singlets and Rugby League Hire Jerseys
We ask all players from Year 7 – 12 to return their rugby league hire jersey/basketball hire singlets to the Uniform Shop as soon as possible please. Could all Year 5 and 6 students either hand their jersey/singlet to the Junior School Office or the Sports Office please.

 AIC AFL Teams – Increase of teams offered in 2023 (open to all students from Year 5 – 12)
In Term 1 2023, AFL will be offered to all students from Year 5 – 12. As from Term 1 2023 the following AFL teams will be on offer:

• Year 5 and Year 6 – Depending on numbers we will have up to three teams in each year level (A, B and C). Games will be played Saturday morning throughout Term 1. Year 5 and Year 6 students can choose to play cricket or AFL but not both.
• Year 7 – Depending on numbers we will have up to two teams (A and B). These games will take place on Saturday morning during Term 1. Year 7 boys can choose to play either AFL, cricket or volleyball as they are all played on Saturday.
• Year 8 – Depending on numbers we will have up to two teams (A and B). These games will take place on Saturday morning during Term 1. Year 8 boys can choose to play either AFL, cricket or volleyball as they are all played on Saturday.
• Year 9 and Year 10 (Combined 9 and 10 A and B) – Depending on numbers we will have up to two teams (A and B). These games will take place on Saturday morning during Term 1. Year 9 and Year 10 boys can choose to play either AFL, cricket or volleyball as they are all played on Saturday.
• Year 11 and Year 12 (Open Team) – Only one combined Year 11 and Year 12 team will be offered. This game will be played on Friday afternoons/evenings. Year 11 and Year 12 students can play AFL and either cricket or volleyball as these two sports are played on Saturday.

AFL, Cricket and Volleyball Trials – Week 2, Term 4
Villanova College will conduct AIC Cricket, AFL and Volleyball trials for all teams from Year 6 – 12 on the dates listed below. These trials are open to all students who are enrolled at Villanova College in 2023.  Please note that all students compete in their year level and not in their age groups.

All students, including those students who will join Villanova in 2023, must attend these trials to be considered for team selection in 2023. Students entering Year 7 – 10 in 2023 may only participate in cricket, AFL or volleyball. Students entering Year 6 may only choose cricket or AFL. Students are required to wear any appropriate sporting attire to these trials. Sporting equipment will be supplied by the College. Students wishing to trial simply attend the venue 15 minutes before the advertised start time.

Please note that bus transportation will be supplied for those AFL groups trialling at Coorparoo JAFC. A bus service will transport boys to the venue after school only. Bus transportation will be supplied to those groups returning from training in the morning. Parents are required to drop off in the morning or collect after trials in the afternoon.

Year 6 – 12 (2023) Cricket/AFL and Volleyball Trial Schedule – Trials conducted Term 4 – 2022

PLEASE NOTE: Trials are for those boys who are entering that year level in 2023, e.g. Year 7 trials are for those boys who are entering Year 7 in 2023.

• Little Langlands – Langlands Park, Main Avenue, Coorparoo (next to Easts Leagues Club)
• Goold Hall – located on the Villanova College Campus, access via Eighth Avenue, Coorparoo
• Coorparoo JAFC – Giffin Park, Birubi Street, Coorparoo

Further trials will be held on the following weekend dates after the initial trials are held above. Students will be advised of their team and subsequent playing time and venue after their trial session scheduled above. Please keep these weekends free.

FURTHER AFL, CRICKET and VOLLEYBALL TRIAL DATES – Year 6 – 12 Teams
After the cricket, AFL and volleyball trials held during Week 2, Term 4 (that is, 10 – 14 October), the College has organised further trial games to take place on the weekend of Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 October. It is important that all interested students attend these trials as we hope to finalise teams and squads after this weekend. All times and venues will be given to all players during the trials played earlier in the week. Some of these are listed below.

Those who do not make an AFL or volleyball team have the option of joining a cricket team. NOTE – The trials pertain to the year level the student enters in 2023. Therefore, the Year 7 trials are for students entering Year 7 in 2023.

All students wishing to trial for an AIC cricket, AIC AFL or AIC volleyball team must complete an ‘On-line Sign -on Form’ by Friday 7 October. Link below.

https://villanova.jotform.com/tkropp/aic-term-1-2023-sport-sign-on

Further Cricket Trials – Year 7 – 10 Teams Only
All teams from Year 7 – 12, Sunday 16 October 2022 at Villanova Park – Specific times and fields TBA

Please note the trial games for cricket will be played on Sunday 16 October at Villanova Park. These trials are for selected teams/students only from Year 7 – 10. Year 6 and Opens teams are not required this weekend. NOTE – NOT ALL BOYS FROM YEAR 7 – 10 WILL BE REQUIRED. After the trials held earlier in the week, we will advise those who are required to attend further trials on Sunday 16 October. More information about team lists will be given at a later stage.

Please contact the Sports Office if you have any queries or concerns – sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au Phone: 3394 5621

Date:               Sunday 16 October 2022
Venue 1:         Villanova Park, Manly Road, Tingalpa
Venue 2:         Kianawah Park, Wynnum Road, Tingalpa
Uniform:         Villa cricket whites or any suitable sports clothing

Further Volleyball Trials – Year 7 – 12 Teams
All teams from Years 7 – 12, Saturday 15 November 2022 at Villanova College, Goold Hall

Please note that all students who have signed up for volleyball trials will be expected to attend further trials held on Saturday 15 October in Goold Hall at Villanova College. After the Volleyball trials held on Saturday 15 October all coaches will then select their volleyball teams/squads. If a boy fails to make a volleyball team/squad, they are welcome to join a cricket team. More information about team lists will be given at a later stage.

Please contact the Sports Office if you have any quires or concerns – sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au Phone: 3394 5621

Date:               Saturday 15 October 2022
Venue:             Court 1 – Goold Hall, Nearest Main Entrance
Court 2 – Goold Hall, Near Stage
Uniform:         Sports PE uniform or any suitable sports clothing

* All players need to be at their respective venue 15 minutes prior to the commencement of their game.

Other Trial Matches Organised (Only for those boys who are selected after Saturday 15 October)

– Saturday 12 November, Trial match v Iona College – Times and venues TBA
– Saturday 19 November, Trial match v St Laurence’s College – Times and venues TBA

Further AFL Trials – Year 6 – 12 Teams
All teams from Year 6 – 12, Saturday 15 October 2022

Please note that all students who have signed up for AFL trials will be expected to attend further trials on Saturday 15 October at Coorparoo JAFC, Birubi St, Coorparoo (Giffin Park). After the AFL trials held on Saturday 15 October all coaches will then select their AFL teams/squads. If a boy fails to make an AFL team/squad, they are welcome to join a cricket team. More information about team lists will be given at a later stage.

Please contact the Sports Office if you have any queries or concerns – sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au Phone: 3394 5621

Date:               Saturday 15 October
Venue:             Coorparoo JAFC, Birubi St Coorparoo, Giffin Park
Uniform:         Any suitable sports clothing to play AFL including boots and mouthguards Bibs will be supplied

* All players need to be at their respective venue 30 minutes prior to the commencement of their game.

Other Trial Matches Organised (only for those boys who are selected after Saturday 15 October)
– Friday 11 November, Open trial match against Iona College – Times and venues TBA
– Saturday 12 November, Year 6, 7, 8, 9/10 trial match v Iona – Times and venues TBA
– Friday 18 November, Open trial match against St Laurence’s College – Times and venues TBA
– Saturday 19 November, Year 8 and Year 9/10 trial match against St Laurence’s College – Times and     venues TBA

FURTHER AFL, VOLLEYBALL and CRICKET TRIALS – 2023
DATE CLAIMER – Further cricket, volleyball and AFL will be played against Padua College on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 January 2023, times and venues TBA.
Please keep this date free.

AIC Track & Field Championships
Villanova’s 2022 AIC Track and Field Team are very much looking forward to competing at the annual AIC Track and Field Championships which will be held today and tomorrow at the Queensland Sport and Athletic Centre (QSAC).

The team’s preparation has been encouraging and we are looking forward to a successful carnival. Unfortunately, not everyone who has trained will get the chance to compete. However, we believe that all those who have trained are important members of the 2022 AIC Track and Field Team, therefore all squad members who have trained throughout the season are invited to attend the carnival with the competing team as a spectator/reserve.

A final team list is posted in the Parent Lounge and Student Cafe portals. Simply log in as normal to these portals. Select the ‘Links’ tab from the top tool bar. From the drop-down menu, select the ‘Team Lists & Weekly Schedule’ tab to view the documents. All team members and reserves listed are invited to attend the carnival. We are keen for all athletes and reserves to attend Day 2 (even though they may have had their event on Day 1) as we are keen for all boys to be present for the photo in the morning and to support the team on the major day of competition.

Please find some information below regarding the event schedule, bus departure times, uniform requirements etc. Although parents may attend the event it is a requirement that all student athletes on both days arrive at the College and use the bus service provided to the venue. This is to ensure the staff account for all boys and the entire team is present for photos. Parents may collect their son from the venue if they are in attendance.

AIC Track and Field Championship
Day 1:             Thursday 6 October 1.15pm – 5.00pm Main Stadium – QSAC, Kessels Road, Nathan
Transport:      Bus departs Villanova College from Sixth Avenue at 12 midday and will return to the College by 5.30pm

Day 2:             Friday 7 October 8.30am – 2.00pm Main Stadium – QSAC, Kessels Road, Nathan
Team Photo:   All athletes are to assemble/meet in the quadrangle at Villanova College at 6.45am for a team photo
Transport:      Bus departs Villanova College from Sixth Avenue at 7.15am and will return to the College by 2.30pm.

All members of the team must arrive at the College by 6.45am on Friday ready for a 7.15am departure on the team bus. All athletes are to meet on the quadrangle for a team photo before boarding the bus. Boys are to ensure they have eaten beforehand and have all the necessary food, drink and equipment for the day.  The first event on the program for Day 2 begins at 8.45am (Open 3000m).

Uniform:         All athletes are required to wear the full Villanova College athletic uniform. Boys who are not competing may wear their team shirt and green PE shorts.
Competing athletes must wear the following:

• New Villanova athletics singlet
• New Villanova green athletic shorts or rugby shorts
• Villanova sports cap (green)
• New Villanova team shirt (COMPULSORY)

The boys will need to bring the following:

• Water bottle/s
• Hat/sunscreen/wet weather gear (if required)
• Food (fruit, sandwiches)
• Boys must bring their own food. Lunch will not be provided. A canteen service will be operational on Day 2 onlY
• Please avoid junk food such as chips and milk drinks
• Other sportswear i.e., spikes

The team bus will return to the College at the completion of the presentations on Day 2 by approximately 2.30pm.
Our congratulations to Jorge Makras who has been selected as the Team Captain for 2022. Jorge has led by example with his commitment to Villanova’s athletics program.
Thank you for supporting your son during the track and field season this year.  I am sure all boys will give their best on Thursday and Friday this week and we look forward to an enjoyable and successful couple of days.

AIC Track & Field – Live Results
Please use the link below to view the live results for all events at this year’s AIC Track & Field Championships.

http://liveresults.qldathletics.org.au/schools/2022/AIC/index.htm

Zone Cricket
The Zone Cricket Competition begins this Saturday and Villanova has entered eight teams into this competition. It is encouraging to see the number of players wanting to develop their cricket before the AIC season commences early next year. This pre-Christmas competition will only benefit the cricket program and also have a positive impact on all players.

A massive thank you to Jeff Ilka and Ross Whitby for their work behind the scenes, as well as the team coaches for getting the season up and running. The organising of team lists, fields and attending meetings to go into bat for the Villanova Cricket Club has taken up a lot of their time.

We apologies for the delay in delivering this information, but team lists have been changing and due to changing team numbers from other clubs, the draw has gone through many drafts. Team managers will have all of the information required if you cannot access the draws.

Players are to wear their Villa cricket whites and a wide brimmed hat. There will be no kit supplied to teams and players are to have their own equipment.

All team lists are available on Parent Lounge and Student Cafe portals. Simply log in as normal to these portals. Select the ‘Links’ tab from the top tool bar. From the drop-down menu, select the ‘Team Lists & Weekly Schedule’ tab to view the documents. If you have not been in contact with your team manager, could you please do so before Round 1 starts this Saturday to provide your contact details and to set up rosters for umpiring and scoring. The draws for all teams are available on either the EDJCA for U11 and U12 or BEARS cricket websites.

In case of bad weather, parents are to contact their team manager. Notices for Zone Cricket will not be placed on the College App.
Training times for Zone Cricket are below:

Villanova Swimming – Mrs Juanita Jacobs, AIC Swimming Co-ordinator
The swimming preseason is now underway with a reasonable group of approximately 50 swimmers in the pool each morning.  We will certainly be looking at building on those numbers as quickly as possible in preparation for the season.  It is important that swimmers begin training as early as possible, so they have the fitness and technique behind them to swim strongly at the AIC Swimming Championships held in 2023.  If there are any problems with attending training, please email Mrs Jacobs and discuss the concerns jjacobs@vnc.edu.au  We encourage all swimmers to be present on Friday mornings each week, so that we can unite as a team and build success together.
Training session times are as below.

It is important that students are present at the pool at least 10 minutes prior to the start time.

AIC Water Polo
Villanova will enter teams in the AIC Water Polo competition in Term 4. Games will be played over a one-day tournament at Somerville House on Sunday 23 October.

All students who wish to participate in the AIC Water Polo Competition must sign up using the sign on sheet available in the foyer of Goold Hall outside the Sports Office as from next Monday. The draw is yet to be finalised. However, the following teams will be nominated – Year 7, Year 8/9, Year 10/11.  There is no competition for Year 12 students.  To be eligible to play water polo, you must also have been a member of the AIC Swim Team in Term 1.

You must be able to commit to at least one training session after school before the competition and be available for the day of the competition – Sunday 23 October.

If you did not swim for the school this year, and wish to play, please speak to Mrs Jacobs in the Mendel Science Staff Room.  If there is a place in the team, you will be allowed to fill the gaps on a first in basis, but you will not be guaranteed a position.

Representative Sport
During the September holidays, a number of Villanova’s volleyball coaches, staff and students attended the Australian Youth Volleyball Championships presented by Volleyball Australia and hosted in regional Victoria. It is a great achievement for each of our students and coaches to be selected to represent Queensland at this event. On behalf of the College we congratulate the following students and staff;

Year 10
Lachlan Gillett – Represented QLD U16 White. Defeated Western Australia 3 – 0 to claim the Bronze.
Jack Renner – Represented QLD U16 Maroon. Defeated New South Wales 3 – 1 to claim the Gold.
Hayden Dent – Represented QLD U17 White. Defeated New South Wales to finish in fifth place.

Year 11
Nick Craig – Represented QLD U17 White. Defeated New South Wales to finish in fifth  place.

Year 12
Thomas Boxall – Represented QLD U18 Maroon. QLD U18 defeated by New South Wales to claim the Silver.

Staff
Ms Shania Hewitt – Coach U16 Girls White, Fifth place.
Mr John Byrnes – Coach U16 Boys White, Bronze Medal.
Mr Todd Kropp – Coach U17 Boys Maroon, Gold Medal.
Mr Nathan Dang – Coach U17 Boys White, Fifth place.

As the AIC volleyball season is quickly approaching, and as these players and coaches swap the Maroon for the Green and Gold, we look forward to them bringing their experiences back to the College.

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

Welcome back to Term 4 – a new beginning!
On behalf of the Music Team at Villanova, I would like to welcome you all back to school for Term 4.  As per correspondence prior to the holidays, we commence our 2023 ensembles this term.  Rehearsals have commenced in earnest, and I am very pleased by the return to routine.  We are looking forward to some fantastic opportunities over the next 12 months and I am looking forward to your continued collective musical growth.

Combined Music Workshop – Loreto College 7-9 October
This coming weekend we are welcoming our fellow musicians from Loreto College to join in our annual music workshop.  This workshop is being convened in replacement of our beginning-of-year event that was cancelled due to COVID restrictions and a delayed start to the 2022 academic year.

Participant students will be making music from after school on Friday, across the day on Saturday, and Sunday morning before sharing their efforts in a concert on Sunday afternoon.  A schedule has been forwarded home to participants.

For those interested in attending our casual performance, the event will be convened in Hanrahan Theatre commencing at 12:30pm.

Senior Musician’s Dinner
On Friday 14 October, we will be celebrating the Senior Musicians of Villanova College.  Convened in Hanrahan Theatre, commencing at 6pm, the evening is a great event of reflection, celebration, and music.  Information to all participants has been emailed home – we look forward to sharing this important milestone and cause for celebration together.

Continuing Information for Performance Music Program
As the ensemble program moves to ‘2023 mode,’ we commence our preparations for the tuition arm of our program for the New Year.  Information regarding tuition and fees for 2023 will be distributed to all families of participant students from Years 5 – 11.  We will be seeking enrolment forms to be returned to the music office during October so that we can finalise staffing and timetabling for next year as early as possible.

Should you have any queries regarding your son’s involvement in music for 2023, please do not hesitate to contact your son’s teacher through the Music Office on 3394 5691, or directly via email.  If we can assist in the Music Office, we would also be happy to speak with you directly.

Thank you all for your assistance in this matter and assisting us in meeting these timelines.

Wieneke Family Music Prize
It has been my pleasure to listen to the many fine young musicians who have entered the heats for our annual Wieneke Family Music Prize.  We have a handful of contestants to go; once these students have been heard, we will be advertising our finalists.  Can I ask that you join me in congratulating those students who have nominated to participate in this year’s event:

Junior School:

Middle School:

Senior School:

The Finals for this year’s prize will be convened on Tuesday 18 October, in Hanrahan Theatre, commencing at 6:00pm.  We hope that you will be able to join us for this fantastic event and celebration of musicianship!

String Department Masterclass – Tuesday 11 October
This coming Tuesday, members of our String Department will have the fantastic opportunity to work with Mrs Neridah Oostenbroek.  Our students will have the opportunity to share their solo repertoire and receive some valuable feedback regarding technique and musicianship from a master educator.  Students will be required to be in attendance from after school through to 5pm.

Parents are most welcome to attend – they will need to sign in at reception if they arrive prior to 4:30pm.  We will be convening this activity in the String Room.

Music Support Group
Our next Music Support Group meeting will be convened on Monday 10 October in the Chapter Room at the front of the Augustine Centre, commencing at 7:30pm.  All parents are most welcome to attend.  We encourage you all to come along and learn a little more about what happens behind the scenes in music here at the College.

Key Dates Term 4
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary:

Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers
Our fantastic Music Support Group have organised an innovative fundraiser for Villanova College.  You may have heard the buzz about our Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers…  the MUST HAVE items for the beach/cricket/park/fishing/barbecue/etc. this Summer!

Villanova Branded Camp Chairs – $35; Wildcat Coolers – $30
All items can be purchased via Trybooking through the following link:  https://www.trybooking.com/BMEML

Purchases can be collected from the Music Office and all profits go to the Music Support Group.

Entertainment Publications Memberships
Entertainment memberships are one of the Music Support Groups main fund-raisers.  Just click on the link below to purchase a membership and obtain ongoing special deals throughout the year.

www.entbook.com.au/22002q9

Thank you all for your ongoing support of Music at Villanova College.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

VOLUNTEERING AT VILLANOVA COLLEGE

Giving back through volunteering is a great way to engage, meet new people and develop lasting relationships at Villanova College. We welcome parents, guardians, extended family, and community members to give back and play an active role in supporting our “Village”.

Ahead of 2023, we are asking volunteers to re-register their interest in areas of volunteering within the school (e.g. Music and Instrumental support, Library, Sports (AIC), Tuckshop and Creative Arts production and event support). For those expressing interest to volunteer in the Tuckshop and Tolle Lege Library, please register your interest by no later than Friday, 18 November 2022. This will enable our Library and Tuckshop staff to roster volunteers ahead of the commencement of the 2023 academic year.  By registering your interest, you will complete a short online Volunteer Induction which is only required to be completed once annually per person irrespective of how many roles/occasions you volunteer for.

The new online process enables our volunteers to:

• input and update your contact details and provide the College with an emergency contact;
• acknowledge our policies and Volunteer Agreement per the Australian National Standards for Volunteer Involvement; and
• upload your Blue Card if it is required for the volunteering role (the online process will provide you with information and instruction as to whether you require a volunteer Blue Card).

 To register your interest and complete the annual induction, please go to: Volunteering at Villanova » Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au)

For any volunteer related queries, contact details are included in the above College link.

We thank you for the important role you play within our community.

Students With Disability Travel Rebate
Semester 2

• Does your child have a verified disability that requires transport assistance to and from school?
• Has your school’s learning support teacher assessed your child’s travel capability rating as ‘semi-independent’ or more dependent?

Visit our website to see if you qualify for financial assistance to help with the cost of transport and apply at www.schooltransport.com.au by 31 October.
Late applications cannot be accepted after 31^st October.

Ladies Derby Day
Date:                   Saturday 29 October
Time:                   2pm-5pm
Where:               The Lawn Bar & Cafe – 44 Ferry Street, Kangaroo Point 4169
Dress:                  Black & White
Tickets:               Early Bird tickets available until Friday 14 October – $120.00
Standard tickets available until Friday 21 October – $135.00

This event is also open to friends of Villanova mothers attending the event, so please feel free to invite them along. There will be fantastic raffle prizes to be won!
Tickets are on sale until Friday 21 October or sold out. No tickets will be available on the door.  Ticket includes a three-hour drinks package (beer, sparking and white wine) and canapes on the day.  Raffle tickets will be available for purchase with the chance to win a range of prizes including $2000.00 cash. A cash bar will be operating on the day.
Any parent wishing to donate prizes for the raffle please email foundation@vnc.qld.edu.au.
Buy tickets TODAY!

P&F Fathers Night
Date:                  Saturday 22 October
Time:                  5:30-10:30pm
Location:            Cassiciacum Gardens / Senior School Terrace – Villanova College 24 Sixth Avenue Coorparoo
Tickets:               $85 per head – includes beer on tap, wine, soft drinks, food and one (1) entry in the raffle.
Raffle Prize:       1st Prize $1,000, 2nd Prize $500, 3rd Prize $250.  One entry included in the ticket price.
Additional tickets – 1 for $30, 3 for $60, 5 for $100
Tickets close:     Tuesday 18 October 2022
Buy tickets TODAY!

Mr Jordan Mullan, Community Engagement and Foundation Manager

ALINTA UNIFORM SHOP
For notices and the latest information on Alinta Uniform Shop stock levels visit the Alinta website: Homepage | Alinta Apparel

TUCKSHOP
View the 2022 Tuckshop menu and price list here: Menu-and-Prices2022-1.pdf (vnc.qld.edu.au)

New Tuckshop Volunteers – We Need You
We are putting a call out to all parents who have ever considered volunteering at the Villanova College Tuckshop – NOW IS THE TIME!
The Tuckshop is a modern, commercial area of the College that provides an affordable and nourishing breakfast, morning tea and lunch service for the boys. Breakfast preparations begin from 7.00am and morning tea and lunch preparations beginning at 8.30am with the day concluding at 1.30pm.

We run a self-service system, with a diverse menu consisting of both freshly prepared and pre-packaged items.
The Tuckshop is managed by a paid convenor but could not exist without its dedicated volunteer helpers. We welcome help from Mums, Dads, grandparents, other caregivers, friends, etc.

You would be rostered on one day every four weeks generally from 8.30am to 1.30 pm but for those of you who can accommodate or prefer an earlier start and/or finish, you can be rostered on the breakfast shift from 7.00am.

Even if you can only give just an hour or two – we can make use of any time you are able to give us. Our helpers are provided with a cuppa and cake for morning tea, a delicious lunch, lots of laughs and an opportunity to see their sons in their school environment.

If you are a little nervous about volunteering alone, why not join with a friend! Current volunteers have mentioned the following reasons as to why they enjoy working at the Tuckshop:

• it helps our boys and the College community
• it is great opportunity to meet other parents and chat to others with similar interests
• boys enjoy seeing their parents at school (even though they will not always admit it)
• it is a chance to get to meet your son’s friends and their teachers
• it is a great way to seek advice from parents who have “been there, done that”
• it is a lot of funPlease consider volunteering. WE NEED YOU!
  Please refer to the College website – https://www.vnc.qld.edu.au/our-college/volunteer/
  or email Dot Blair – tuckshop@vnc.qld.edu.au for further details.

Dot Blair, Tuckshop Convenor

VILLANOVA COLLEGE BUSINESS DIRECTORY 
Calling current parents, Old Boys and past parents — promote your business or service to members of the Villa community for free with the Villanova College Business Directory. List your business today for free via the link: https://www.vnc.qld.edu.au/our-college/villanova-business-directory/

Questions can be directed to foundation@vnc.qld.edu.au