Villa View: Issue 02/22

One of the defining features of Villanova College is that we are a community not simply a school. I am sure many parents are asked why they choose an independent Catholic education when there are opportunities, without the cost, elsewhere.

The answer is in the identity of the school. We are a Catholic community in the Augustinian tradition. When your son comes to Villanova you get more than the classroom, or a sports field, or a flash uniform, or a set of behaviour standards. At Villanova you get a community. That community cares, challenges, supports, reflects, and has its focus on the whole person. You get a community where your son’s development is directed by faith and a set of the values that, if lived in everyday life, does in fact set him apart from others. These are not designed to make him better, more powerful, intellectually elite, or significantly influential. In many ways it is the opposite our values and practices are designed to provide the broadest set of opportunities for him to develop to his fullest, to see the world through many lenses and to respond and make a positive change in that world. They may well hold power, have developed strong intellects and be influential in their interactions with others but these are by products of developing a fine Augustinian man. We are a community that encourages diverse thinking, the careful consideration of alternatives and to respond in service, with compassion and humility. That is the Villanova difference!

This Villanova difference is what I have been watching, observing and reflecting on in these first two months. I have recognised it through seeing it in the actions of others, staff and students and experienced as someone new to community sharing myself with the boys, staff and parents for the first time. It is in people’s words and most importantly in their actions.

I have experienced and witnessed the welcome and the care, the politeness and friendliness of the boys. I have experienced students being challenged in the classroom, both academically and in relationships. I have seen and spoken to boys who have made mistakes, some significant ones this early in the year! Yet in response I have experienced the care of staff in redirecting and challenging their behaviour and the commitment of boys to improving behaviour, taking accountability for their short comings and re-establishing relationships.

I am thankful of these first few months and in my gratitude am encouraged to ensure it is a hallmark of our community not a simple reflection of early naivety.

Community engagement opportunities
Across these last two years with the effects of COVID and exclusion from schools of people and the cancellation of events it has been difficult to engage community. We have parents and students from Years 5 -9 who have never experienced a Villanova International Carnival, whose experience of an Open Day celebration was an online discussion, who have only ever engaged with AFAS online, or through donation not through experience. Who are unaware that our service-learning opportunities are open to students, parents and Old Boys!

As we slowly emerge across these next few weeks and months there are hopefully so many opportunities to engage and become immersed in the traditions, values and friendships of Villanova. Your place is with us at our place.

The key opportunities for you to engage over the next few months being with our AFAS concert next Saturday evening. There are further details below.

There are many more;

• Tuckshop volunteers are required each weekday please contact:  3394 5592 or email Dot Blair – tuckshop@vnc.qld.edu.au
• Sports Canteen support for all sports at home games throughout the year.  For further information please contact Mrs Sarah Patterson via email spatterson@vnc.qld.edu.au
• Parents and Friends Association – all are welcome to attend the P & F Meetings held once a month during the school term; the next meeting is the AGM scheduled for Monday 7 March – please check your email over the coming days to register your attendance.
• Sports Club – all are welcome to attend the Sports Club meetings which are scheduled twice a term with the next meeting scheduled for 6pm on Wednesday 16 March.
• Music Support/QCMF Planning Group – the Music Support/QCMF Planning Group meets once a month during the school term; the next meeting is scheduled for 7.30pm on Monday 7 March.
• At a more strategic level there are also College Board sub-committees which need expertise and commitment to ensure the reliable and proper running of the College with high level checks and balances. Opportunities to serve the community in this capacity will be requested in a specific and direct communication at a later time.

Villanova Community in action!
On Saturday 5 March the first opportunity for parents, friends, Old Boys and students to re-engage with the College arrives with the Villanova social function to rival all others. Taking place on the Terraces, with the city views, is the AFAS Musical extravaganza featuring Australia’s Got Talent David de Vito who will be in concert along with Australian Idol runner up Luke Dickens.

In just over a week, music from Neil Diamond to Leonard Cohen and AC/DC will be presented under the stars.

Our families are encouraged to gather together a group of friends and create great memories together over music and food.

Our last similar concert raised enough money to purchase a sterilizer for the mid-wife on the island of Kinatarcan in the Philippines. Past parents, students and teachers have twice assisted in construction work with Kinatarcan residents.

Fr Saldie has returned from the Philippines this week and during his trip home spoke with residents and community representatives struggling to rebuild after the devastation of Typhoon Odette. UNICEF reported that over 4,000 classrooms were lost in the storm effecting over two million students learning.

On the evening we will be able to share with you all where the 2022 David de Vito Concert funds will be allotted.

More details view our flyer here
Book online at:  https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/824008

Recent Community Bereavements
As a College with a long history, there are times when members of both our past and present community pass and to whom we would like to pay our respects.

Recently, Mrs Judy Smith, mother and mother-in-law of Sue and John Godwin (1986 and previous member of staff) and grandmother to Ned (Year 10), Archie (Year 7), Gus (2021) and Riley (2018) passed away. As did Mr John Holroyd Senior, the father of long serving staff member Mr John Holroyd and grandfather to Elijah (Year 11) and Henry (2021).

We wish the Godwin, Smith and Holroyd families our deepest condolences at this time and hope that in their grief the memories of lives well lived are remembered fondly and celebrated in Christ.

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. 

Highschool Musical has a history in the Rouhliadeff family as all 3 movies were played repeatedly combining my love (basketball) with my wife’s love (music) and our two boys who were only very young at the time, found them to be a lot of fun to watch.  Not that I can actually confess to watching any of those movies in their entirety – as I’m not a musical kind of person at all.  Physical activity involving sports equipment is my strength.  Yet when the opportunity came up from our Villanova College Music and Arts Departments for our Year 5 and 6 students to watch the Loreto and Villanova students perform 2 acts as their dress rehearsal, I could not ignore the lit up faces of staff who could promise me how much fun this would be for those students with the potential to love performances and seek them out in the near future for study or simply as co-curricular involvement. 

Well, we were simply blown away.  An UNBELIEVABLE display of talents shone brightly in Hanrahan Theatre. 

I got to see Act 1 with the Year 5 students.  As the doors shut and the lights went down, I did wonder if I could afford the time to stay for the 60 minutes with my schedule.  Yet there was just no way I could leave once I saw the incredible technology screens that helped with the backdrop settings (remember when we went to school it was the display pin boards that flipped around?), the band began to play (and they even are playing sound effects the entire time with the actors – the coordination of that is impressive), the sound/lighting Tech Crew were in full swing with headsets communicating all kinds of instructions, and then there were these Senior Students who wore costumes that could be up for an Oscar nomination, reciting lines and lyrics to the audience with a smile.  I was glued to my seat, mesmerized by what I was seeing, but also loving the reactions of our Year 5 boys.  They couldn’t help but tap their feet, clap their hands, gasp when a cheeky joke was made between actors and some even began singing words to the songs!  Staff and Year 6 students who saw Act 2 had very similar feedback to share.  What an inspiration to see what can be done with a lot of hard work by so many people behind the scenes as much as those who stand in the spotlight.  Thank you to all involved and if you are lucky enough to have a ticket for this week’s evening performances then prepare yourself for joy, fun and total pride in the experience that is coming. 

It’s really got me thinking about that side of learning.  Creative, movement, rhythm, emotions, storytelling, technical filming and recording – we are all so very happy to watch YouTube clips, TV shows, movies and live theatre.  Do we encourage the boys enough to engage with this possibility for their learning, even in their future work life?  When we share stories, do we embrace the gestures, facial expressions and possibilities that allow individual pizazz or flair?  We should.  There are boys who are waiting for their chance to try it.   

We are now coming to the end of Week 4 teaching and learning in classrooms.  Hopefully some routines are beginning to feel “normal” for you and your son/s. It’s absolutely understandable that we all settle into a new place with different expectations to feel that you are finding your way.  Some people can settle in overnight, others after a few weeks, and some feel more at home after a year.  There is no right nor wrong way to feel – it is simply just how you feel and that’s quite alright.  Being a part of a College means that the Junior School at times needs to share resources or follow schedules across Years 5-12 so learning what is important for you to read, know and manage takes a little getting used to.  Organisation is key – books, stationery, PE gear, musical instruments and uniforms – including the places they are stored – is a top priority.  Being accountable for our belongings can bring about a positive outcome for a lot of the day ahead for students.  The bonus is that the students (and of course parents) can access information and find solutions when items are forgotten, isolation is suddenly happening in a family or there is a resource you would like to watch/read or do again.  Let us know if there is anything we can do to help you or your son to find your way. 

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

We have recently learnt that a small number of Middle School boys have been exposed to inappropriate and explicit material via their mobile phones. This is something we witnessed last year and thankfully, with parental support, had a dramatic decline in incidents such as these.

Each of the Middle School classes will be addressed in the coming week about this matter and I ask for your support and heightened awareness.

Our current concern is related to the airdropping of inappropriate material whilst on public or privately chartered buses, before or after school. Using the airdrop function, especially on iPhones, video and photo content can be distributed with anonymity. We are aware that some boys have unknowingly ‘accepted an airdrop’ from an unidentified phone (“iPhone”), or a phone using a pseudonym, only to discover the inappropriate content. A preview of the content is not provided prior to the recipient opening the image/video.

In a recent case, some of the material that was airdropped was sexually explicit, while other material is believed to have been graphically violent.

I am extremely disappointed that some Middle School students have been exposed to this material. To date, our investigations have not uncovered the persons responsible, and I suspect further investigations will not enlighten us more due to the anonymity of airdropping. It is entirely possible that such incidents could occur on public transport or in public spaces; initiated by people unknown to the boys. Any iPhone with Bluetooth turned on could be targeted.

My advice to you as parents is as follows:

• Talk with your son about their knowledge of the current situation.
• Discuss with him appropriate use of his smart phone; including access to Snapchat and other social media platforms and the use of Airdrop.
• Instruct your son to never accept material via Airdrop unless the sender clearly identifies themselves and discloses what they are sending.
• Consider smart phone restrictions and monitoring software. Airdrop can be switched off in ‘Settings’ on an iPhone. Here are a few useful resources:
  • Use parental controls on your child’s iPhone, iPad and iPod touch
  • Internet Safe Education
  • eSafety Commissioner
• Encourage your son to speak with you if they ever come across inappropriate material online.

Speaking with adolescents about pornography can be a challenge for many parents, but they are conversations that need to occur, as they help our boys know our expectations. For assistance with these conversations, the Raising Children website has some useful resources: Pornography: talking about it with teenagers 12-18 years.

I thank you for your ongoing support. Please contact your son’s Year Level Coordinator if you have any further questions regarding these matters.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

High School Musical
Yesterday evening was the spectacular opening night of the 2022 College Musical, High School Musical– another inspiring and creatively masterful collaboration of the musical, dancing and acting talents of the students from both Villanova College and Loreto College. As a strong advocate of the creative arts and a passionate believer in the ideals of a renaissance man, it is wonderful to see our young men on the stage, in the orchestra pit and in production roles, working together to produce creative art. Seeing students playing First level sport on Saturday and performing that night on the stage is the truly the mark of a ‘man for all seasons’. This year, I have had the great pleasure of being part of the production team as Stage Manager and can certainly attest to the passion and resilience demonstrated by all involved.

Congratulations to all Senior School students who are involved in this production- especially the principal cast members, Kai Asnicar (Year 11), Heath McPherson (Year 11), David Cassaniti (Year 12), Bailey Korander-Matheson (Year 12), Ryan Buck (Year 11), Declan Curtis (Year 12) and Flynn Curtis (Year 10) as well as the chorus members, musicians and crew.

I would also like to affirm the passion, dedication and commitment of our Director Mrs Sophie Kenny and the staff who navigated the challenges of Covid to stage a truly brilliant show. It is no surprise the musical sold out- it is the hottest ticket in town!

Peer Mentoring
On Tuesday morning this week, a team of Year 11 and 12 students commenced their first session of our Peer Mentoring Program. Following on from the continued success of the program last year and the wonderful Big Brother relationships formed between Year 12 students with the Junior School classes, we have grown the program this year to provide an opportunity for a group of Year 11 students to work in the Middle School in supporting our Year 7 classes.

In the training sessions conducted prior to this week’s commencement, the Junior School Pastoral Area Leader, Mr Brendan Kennedy spoke to the peer mentors about the powerful and positive difference that our Senior School students can have in the lives of the impressionable younger students. In discussing the impact that our Peer Mentors can have, Mr Kennedy expressed the following:

By showing up and listening, knowing names, and sharing your Villanova journey and the lessons learned, you can be a source of truth and a key person in the life of another person.

The Peer Mentor program is another fundamental expression of our servant leadership philosophy at the College. I wish all of our Peer Mentors all the very best and hope they are all personally enrichened by the experience.

Academic Goal Setting
As we come to the mid-point of the first term, it is extremely important that students are taking full advantage of the support available to them to maximise their academic success. Year 11 and Year 12 students are continuing their goal setting interviews with their Academic Coaches and Year 10 students are exploring their transition into the Senior School with conversations with either Mr Sean O’Neill or myself. I continue to reinforce with students that a strong relationship with their classroom teacher is the primary platform for realising their academic goals. A distinctly Augustinian approach to teaching and learning promotes an emphasis on a relational pedagogy in which the strength of the teacher-student relationship has the greatest impact for successful learning outcomes.

“Music is the literature of the heart; it commences where speech ends.” – Alphonse de Lamartine

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Two weeks ago we congratulated our Semester 2, 2021 academic award winners at our Scholars’ Assembly. Whilst we could not hold it in Goold Hall with the whole College community present, we were able to broadcast it to classrooms and live stream it for the wider community to view. In amongst congratulating the award recipients, the College’s Academic Captain, Lachie McGregor delivered some powerful words and encouraged all current Villanova students to continue to strive for their best, whatever that best looks like.

As detailed in my previous newsletter article, the Semester 2 awards acknowledge those students who excel in the second half of the year and who may or may not have received Semester 1 or Celebration of Excellence academic awards. This year, however, we instigated the awarding of an academic excellence badge for students who received awards in both Semester 1 and 2.

Recipients were:

Year 5, 2021

Year 6, 2021

Year 7, 2021

Year 8, 2021

Year 9, 2021

Year 10, 2021

Year 11, 2021

The second part of our assembly turned to our Year 12 cohort of 2021 where we welcomed back nine of our high achievers. Each of these young men, who achieved an ATAR of 99.00 or above, were congratulated for not just their results but acknowledged for their grit, determination and hard work. Paddy Perrier (ATAR 99.95) spoke magnificently about his experience last year. He passed on a number of tips on how he achieved his success. These were :

1. Your teachers are your greatest ally – as clichéd as that sounds their help and expertise are invaluable. Late night emails in the external examination period are selflessly replied to far quicker than they should be.
2. Work smart and hard – it’s okay to take justified short cuts when studying as long as they aren’t going to haunt you later down the track. Additionally, look for challenges in your studies to further your knowledge instead of always picking the easy path, putting in the work that no one else wants to will place you ahead of the rest of the state.
3. There is no value in studying every single night for every single spare minute you have. There must be breaks, time to go see mates, go out for dinner, go to the golf range, time to exercise, run, gym, whatever you like to do, make time and take time. This will be important in maintaining your mental health and balance in your life to ensure you don’t burn out. Personally, there was nothing more rewarding in the External Exam block than feeling comfortable to forget about studying just to relax, get my head where it needs to be, and rest up enough overnight – but that was only possible because of the low volume of study I put in consistently starting on day 1 of Year 12.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” Mahatma Gandhi

 At Villanova College students engage in a wide range of student led initiatives responding to needs within and beyond our community through our Ministries program.  There are five active Ministry groups within the College:

• Green Team – Green Team is passionate about all issues concerning the environment such as recycling, litter, planting of vegetation and sustainability
• AFAS  –   (Partnership with the Philippines) AFAS looks to assist the poor and marginalised in the Philippines. This is achieved by promoting solidarity with communities in the Philippines that Villanova students have supported through donations of money and goods as well as visiting through immersions.
• Vinnies – The St Vincent de Paul ministry raises awareness and fundraises to support about some of the most vulnerable members of the community. Some of these projects include fundraising to support Emmanuel City Mission homeless outreach, organising baskets of groceries for families and individuals at risk in our community, participating in a Sleep Out experience in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness.
• YAYM  (Young Augustinian Youth Ministries) – This ministry is for students in the Middle School who are interested in voicing their ideas to better the College and broader community through fundraising projects as well as outreach to the elderly with their work to support residents of Duhig Village Nursing Home.
• YCS (Young Christian Students)  –   Students in YCS have traditionally engaged with year 5 and 6 students through lunchtime games but have expanded to look at the promotion of good mental health in the College last year and will continue to do this in 2022.

Meeting times:

Vinnies            Tuesday Lunch
YAYM              Wednesday Lunch
Green team     Thursday Morning tea
YCS                 Thursday Lunch
AFAS               Friday Morning tea

Jose Sibi, our Ministry Captain for 2022, addressed the College on Friday at the College assembly.  He has set out his vision for Ministries this year:

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. This quote by Mahatma Gandhi sums up what ministry at Villanova is all about. Ministry gives us such an important opportunity to be able to serve the community and serve others around us. Ministry calls us to display servant leadership, which not only is of benefit to those we see in need around us, but it is beneficial for ourselves to grow as better people. It allows us to increase our empathy we have for others and gives us a true sense of satisfaction knowing we have given back to the community. For the feeling of giving back to the community is a feeling like no other, and we strongly urge you all to take up the opportunities in ministry that Villanova provides to make the most out of your Villanova journey.

After all, there is a reason why we go to a Catholic School, and it is in our own Christian identity to serve others, help those less fortunate, raise awareness on issues, and protect our earth and environment. Ministries at Villanova allows us to be able to do all these things, where for the Senior School, opportunities to be able to serve the community are available through the St Vincent de Paul, AFAS, YCS, Green Team and Rosie’s ministry groups with our middle school students also having this opportunity in the YAYM ministry group. These different ministries complement each other in achieving important initiatives and events, where ministry at Villanova play a strong role in uniting our community through our good actions and deepening our community spirit.

This week was ministry sign-on week, and it has been good to see many display their interest in joining the ministry groups. For those who haven’t signed up yet, this is a reminder that it’s not too late, as doing small actions, whatever it might be, whether it is organising a Mother’s Day stall with YAYM, being involved at a clean-up at Norman Creek with the Green Team or delivering a Vinnies Hamper Basket to someone in our community in need, truly can go a long way and make a difference. So… let’s do it. Let’s get involved!

Head 2 Heart

In addition to our Ministry groups, there are a number of Service-Learning opportunities for students to engage in throughout the year.  A group of our current Year 11 students engaged in the powerful Head 2 Heart program in November 2021.  It was such an enjoyable and successful weekend; we have signed up for another camp program in March in partnership with Loreto College and Edmund Rice Camps.  These camps provide great fun for children who face many obstacles and challenges in their lives.  Currently Year 11s have the opportunity to apply for the March program.  Max and Isaac offer their reflections on Head 2 Heart from last year.

After spending 24 hours at Villa for the Head2Heart experience, I can honestly say that it was one of the most enjoyable and eye-opening experiences of my life. Seeing the looks of pure joy on the little buddies’ faces as you played and wrestled was truly rewarding. It was fantastic to know that despite all the difficulties these children might face at home, that for a few hours you were providing them with a safe place to forget their troubles. When leaving the camp, I felt satisfied and content, that I had truly made a difference, if only briefly, in those kids’ day. In ways difficult to describe, I also felt like the buddies had done more for me than I had done for them. Commencing Grade 11 after this experience has made me become more optimistic and grateful for the life I live, as I know that my life can completely change in an instant.

Max Clark

The Head to Heart camp was an exciting, exhilarating, yet humbling experience for me, and my nine Villa brothers. The camp was 24 hours dedicated to pure joy and energy towards our little buddies, so that they can have the best time they’ve ever had. Many of our buddies came from difficult and disadvantaged backgrounds, so building a relationship with them meant so much more than simply, having a good time. For me, the best feeling was knowing that our new little mates were able take a break from their rough lifestyle, and just be kids again.   

Isaac Solomon

Supporting AFAS by attending the AFAS Elders David De Vito Concert – Saturday 5 March from 5pm to 10.30pm

Join us on the lawns of Villanova College’s Senior School Terraces with the city skyline as the backdrop, raising funds for the (AFAS) Australian Filipino Augustinian Solidarity, Elders Project.

As seen on Australia’s Got Talent, David will be joined by guest artists Tabatha Ashmore and Nadyne Thorne and supported by Luke Dickens of Australian Idol fame.

Please see the flyer for here

Inspiring Conversations about the Big Issues of Life and Faith

From 9 March 2022, St James Parish Coorparoo is running its third, free Alpha Program.

This hugely successful Program has been enjoyed by over 26M people in over 100 countries worldwide. In Australia, Alpha is growing every year with almost 70,000 people taking part in 2020.

Alpha is a series of interactive sessions which engage people from all walks of life and inspire conversations about the big issues of life and faith.

At St James Parish Coorparoo, participants come together each Wednesday evening over 10 weeks to share a hot meal and a drink, watch a short video, and then sit in small groups to have safe and honest conversations. It really is this simple!

Most importantly, the Alpha Program provides an opportunity to relax and meet others who may be in similar situations, looking for meaning and perhaps a new perspective in life.

All Villanova College staff and parents are invited to participate in Alpha. For more information, or to register, visit the Alpha Australia website at www.alpha.org.au and select ‘Try Alpha’. Type ‘Coorparoo’ in the ‘Find the Right Alpha for me’ and then select ‘St James Parish’.

Alternatively, email the St James Parish Coorparoo at: osastjames@bne.catholic.net.au. To organise a confidential discussion, you can also contact Sean Hodgson at: seanhodgson3@outlook.com.

Ms Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

Traditionally, the round played against Ashgrove in any AIC sport proves to be one of our toughest rounds of the season. I was extremely impressed with our results last weekend as we came away with seven wins, three losses in the AFL, 15 wins, one tie and 11 losses in cricket as well as 11 wins and nine losses in the volleyball. Our 1st VI volleyball and 1st AFL teams had two very good wins. Unfortunately, our 1st XI cricket team lost in a very tight game.

Against such quality opposition our boys did extremely well, and we should feel proud of their efforts. We had several teams on the weekend who had narrow losses and had cause to recount ‘what should have been’. As mentioned, our 1st XI cricket team lost, while they felt they should have taken the game, I was there and we should have, but unfortunately, we let them back in the game. The 6A AFL team had a narrow loss. The 5A cricket had a tied game which could have gone either way.

There are many stories across the fields which recount good wins, narrow losses, stories of missed opportunity and so on.  As I reiterate to the boys often, if you leave the ground and feel that you have given your best, you should feel happy with the result. If you enjoyed the experience and conducted yourself in keeping with our school values, you have got to be happy with that. Wins are great, losses are not but either way, it is schoolboy sport, let us all move on from the result and try for the win the next weekend.

From time to time, our players, spectators and sometimes our coaches can get it wrong. This happens at all AIC schools. When we do get it wrong, we will own our behaviour and we will make the necessary improvements the following week. As we reach Round 4, the halfway point of the season, I must say I am very happy with the conduct of our teams and the efforts put in by all players and coaches. Well done to everybody for your part in making the sporting experience positive for all.

I thank and urge all swimmers to keep up their training in readiness for the annual AIC Swimming Championships which will be held at Chandler on Tuesday 8 March, under two weeks away. We ask all swimmers to give swimming their full priority over the next 2 weeks. The coaches/managers need to finalise the team and a number of ‘swim offs’ are needed. Attendance at the last two swims meets this Thursday at Chandler and next Friday at St Peters is a must as it will be the last opportunity for boys to post a time to make the team. Best wishes go to all squad members and well done on the great work put in during the pre-season!

The AIC management committee is still in deliberation regarding parent and student spectators for the AIC Swimming Championships. We hope to communicate the decision regarding spectators soon.

I take this opportunity early in the season to thank all coaches and managers of our cricket, AFL, swimming and volleyball teams, for making a substantial contribution to the Villa sports program for our students to enjoy all the benefits of sport. Our scorers, umpires, refs, canteen helpers, members of the Villa Sports Club and many others also deserve our thanks as we all go about our duties to give of ourselves to help others. As the Villa sports program is about ‘people’ we should be mindful that we are mostly dealing with volunteers who freely give of their time, and I would encourage us all to support these people and be extremely thankful to them for what they do.

Even though we are only part way through Trimester 1, the Sports Office is currently looking to cement plans for the up-coming AIC Chess, Cross Country, Rugby and Football season for all students from Years 5-12. Please scroll down on this page or visit the College’s website to view the training days, times and venues for all Rugby and Football teams from Years 5-12 as well as other key dates. Again, we need parents and old boys to fulfil the many coaching and refereeing roles. If you can assist, please contact Mr Chris Everding or Mr Anthony Kemp using the details listed below.

Round 4 this weekend will see Villanova face St Patrick’s College in the main draw. At present with the current weather forecast, the likelihood of cricket and AFL games being played could be in doubt. Let’s see how the rest of the week pans out.  We will assess the situation on Friday and see. In any case we always are prepared to play so let’s keep our mind on the game, keep up the great work ethic and please remember to enjoy the challenges and time spent with your mates along the way.

Round 4 Fixtures – Friday 25 and Saturday 26 February, AIC Cricket and Volleyball v St Patrick’s College (in the main draw), AIC AFL v St Patrick’s/Iona College and Swim Meet at Chandler.

Please refer to the College’s website to view all times and venues for this weekend’s fixtures. Simply scroll down on the College’s home page to the ‘Latest News’ section and click the ‘Weekly Fixtures’ section.

AIC Cricket

Villanova against Ashgrove in cricket is historically a tough and close round. Last Saturday proved no different as both Colleges tried to assert some authority over their opposition in the hope of claiming the upper hand. Overall Villanova came away with 15 wins, 11 losses and a tie, with the 5A game ending in a thrilling finish with Villa taking the last wicket with the scores locked at 88 each.

Looking at the results of our top sides, Villanova defeated Ashgrove in the 6A, 7A, 8A, 9A and 10A matches, clearly highlighting the quality players some of our teams have. The 1st XI were chasing a huge score of 238 runs in their game and seemed to be in control of the run chase at 2/118 at the 18 over mark. Unfortunately, a steady flow of wickets put the brakes on, and we were eventually dismissed for 219.

Parents and players in the A and B teams from Year 7 up are reminded that players are selected as batsmen only, bowlers only or allrounders. Coaches have selected their teams based on the balance they want from in their sides and the abilities they believe the players bring to the good of the team. Unfortunately, some boys won’t bat or bowl for the season, that’s the nature of competitive cricket and if they wish to do so, then they would be better of playing in a C team, where they can do both.

There have been a few selection changes to teams over the last couple of weeks as players suffer from covid, injury or unavoidable absences. Player movement is encouraged and obviously at the discretion of the coaches starting from the A’s down. We acknowledge that we won’t get selections right but strongly encourage player movement particularly if players are performing well in lower grades. We are also aware that the boys will be disappointed, if they are asked to play down and our coaches are responsible for letting them know what aspects of the game they need to work on and that the team is looking to strengthen certain areas in their play. It is more difficult than rugby and football because the boys don’t train together, and they play at different venues each week.

Matches this week are against St. Patrick’s College, with the older boys again playing at home.

Villanova Team of the Week – Round 2

AIC AFL – Mr Adam Fry, AIC AFL Co-ordinator

Another fantastic weekend of AFL at Villanova College with seven wins and only three losses. Unfortunately, our 6As and Bs had tough losses, but will certainly look to bounce back this week. Our 9/10s also battled through a number of outs to perform with outstanding courage and pride, however the lack of numbers got the better of them. To all other teams, it was terrific to see the sportsmanship and desire to win the contest shine through, with very commanding wins across all year levels. Our Open team continue to impress and are sitting atop the First ladder at 3-0. Keep up the terrific performances lads.

This week we have some fierce competition against St Patrick’s College in the older years and Iona College in the younger years. We must be prepared for a physical game, so ensure you are putting in the effort on the track at training. I keep encouraging all players to turn up and show support in the appropriate way to all players and coaches. It is wonderful to feel the Villanovan Spirit each week. If any older boys are around on a Saturday morning, feel free to come support the younger teams, even if it is to lead them in the VNC chant.

Let us keep up the exceptional effort we have shown thus far and work towards many more wins this weekend. Good luck to all players and coaches, see below for last weekend’s results and the team of the week.

Team of the Week

Good luck to all teams this weekend and continue to play in the spirit of the game, ready to outwork your opponent.

Round 3 AFL Results v Ashgrove and St Laurence’s College

 AIC Volleyball – Mr Todd Kropp

It was another tough day on court for our volleyball teams last Saturday against Ashgrove in Round 3 action. Once again, many games went down to the wire with sets and matches being extremely tight and decided by a few crucial points. For our junior teams, whilst we were not able to take out some of the closer games, the pleasing take away is that our boys put themselves in the position to win. The next step we must take is having that confidence and self-belief that we can win in those tight moments as we are no doubt capable of competing to a high standard.

Our Senior teams (10-12) did a great job of defending the home turf finishing the day with 7 wins and 2 losses. A special mention to our 10C and 10B teams who suffered losses but truly showed the capability of their team and our program having both gone down in very tight finishes. I know those teams will be working hard on the court this week.

Whilst there was much to celebrate elsewhere, I would also like to make mention to our First VI team who continue their reign at the top of the table taking care of the Ashgrove First VI team 3 sets to 1. This win is particularly important being the first win since our battle with our volleyball rivals, St Peters. It was great to see the team continue playing quality volleyball and executing skills and gameplans. It would have been easy to switch off this week given the toll of last weekend’s game, but we are proud to say the boys overcame this and put up yet another good performance.

Round 4 this Saturday will see us take on St Patrick’s College. Our senior teams (10-Open) will be playing at home again this week with our junior (7-9) teams playing away at St Patrick’s. Please check the weekly fixtures for game times and venue.

AIC Volleyball Results v Ashgrove

 AIC Swimming – Mrs Juanita Jacobs, Swimming Co-ordinator

 The third AIC Swim meet for the season is held at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre (Chandler) this Thursday 24 Feb after school. All AIC squad members are expected to attend wearing the correct uniform as stated in the ‘AIC Swimming Information Letter’ listed below.

Transportation – A bus will transport all squad members to Chandler, departing Villanova at 3.10pm at the front of the College. The Year 5 and Year 6 swimmers will be escorted by a teacher to the bus area.  A return bus service will not be offered. Parents MUST collect their son from the venue after the meet. Please collect by 6.15/30am as we expect the meet to be finished well before 7.15/30am.

Note – parents are permitted to attend this swim meet. All parents and swimmers must sit in the same designated section, that is, Section 2 as per seating plan posted on the website and the college App earlier in the week. Only the Western Grandstand may be used, the Eastern Grandstand must be left vacant throughout the meet.

AIC Swim Meet at Chandler – Thursday Feb 24

Arrival                   4.00pm

Warm up              4.00 – 4.30pm

Start                      4.30pm

Finish                     6.15pm – 6.30pm

Events:

100m Freestyle                 All ages                 1 x heat/age group

50m Breaststroke             All ages

50m Freestyle                    All ages

50m Backstroke                All ages

50m Butterfly                     All ages                 1 x heat/age group*

4x50m Freestyle               All ages                 2 x heats/age group*

*Time permitting

Trimester 2 Sport Sign-Ons – Rugby, Football, Chess and Cross Country – Now Online!!!

All students who are interested in representing Villa in AIC Rugby, Football, Cross Country and Chess in Term 2 from Years 5-12 must complete an online registration form – https://form.jotform.com/VillanovaSport/aic-term-2-sport-sign-on

Within the online form please tick your preference. Note that Rugby and Football will be played during the same time. Students who are eligible may choose either Rugby or Football as well as Chess and Cross Country.  Please see below all information pertaining to the up-coming Rugby and Football season.  This includes the commencement date of the trials as well as times and venues for all training.

IMPORTANT!!! – Students wishing to play AIC Rugby League in Term 3 must play either AIC Rugby Union or AIC Football in Term 2.

• RUGBY UNION (Open to all students from Year 5 – 12) Games played on Saturday as per College Calendar.
• FOOTBALL (Open to students from Year 5 – 12) Games played on Saturday as per College Calendar.
• CHESS (selected students from Year 5 – 12) Games played on Friday afternoon/evening as per College Calendar.
• CROSS COUNTRY (Open to all students from Year 5 – 12) Meets – Refer to College calendar.

We ask that all parents to complete this online registration alongside their son. Information regarding the student’s name, year level, ID number, parent’s email address, DOB and sport selection is required.

All nominations are due next Monday 28^th February!!!

We expect that when a boy commits to a team that he follows that commitment through until the end of season.  Both parents and players must acknowledge within the online sign-on form that they are aware of the College’s policies and expectations with regards to school sport. The College’s Selection Guidelines and Code of Conduct will also be found on the online sign-on form. Please note that school sport is given priority over club sport.

AIC Rugby and Football Training/Trials

Any boy wishing to represent Villanova in either Rugby or Football must complete an Online Sign-on Form to register their interest – https://form.jotform.com/VillanovaSport/aic-term-2-sport-sign-on

The first training/trial session will occur the very first week after Round 7 of Cricket, AFL and Volleyball. That is, the week beginning Monday 21^st March.

Training times and venues for all Year 5-12 rugby and football teams are listed below. All Year 5 and Year 6 teams will train at Little Langlands or Whinstanes. Year 7-12 teams will train at Villa Park. The College will provide bus transportation to Villa Park for all teams. Parents are required to collect their son from Villa Park after training. There will be no return bus service from Villa Park.

Please see the divisions below. Note in each division the players will be graded from A, B, C etc. Opens will be graded from 1st, 2nds, 3rds etc.

Football – Year 5, Year 6, Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 and Opens

Rugby – Year 5, Year 6, Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, Opens

AIC Rugby and Football Trial Games – Date Claimers 

• Mon 21 – 25 March (Rugby and Football training/trials begins at Villa Park for all Year 7-12 teams, Year 5 and Year 6 teams will trial at Little Langlands/Whinstanes)
• Sat 26 March Internal AIC Rugby and Football Trials at Villa Park (1st, 2nds and 10A rugby and football v SLC at SLC only, all other teams will trial internally at Villa Park)
• Sat 23 April AIC Rugby and Football trial v Ashgrove (full school trial- Year 5-12)
• Sat 30 April Round 1 – Sat 11 June Round 7 as per College calendar

AIC Rugby and Football Training/Trial Schedule

The below schedules will be applied all season. NOTE – some Year 5 and Year 6 training times could change depending on the coach’s availability, however, we will endeavour to keep to the schedule below.

Rugby Training

• Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, Year 11 and Opens at Villa Park 3.45-5.00pm, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons
• Year 5 at Little Langlands, Tuesday afternoon 3.15pm-4.30pm and Thursday mornings 6.45-8.00am
• Year 6 at Little Langlands, Tuesday mornings 6.45am-8.00am and Thursday afternoons 3.15pm-4.30pm

Football Training

• Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, 3rds, 4ths and 5ths at Villa Park 3.45-5.00pm, Monday and Wednesday afternoons
• 1st and 2nds at Villa Park 3.45-5.15pm Tuesday and Thursday afternoons
• Year 5 at Little Langlands, Monday afternoon 3.15pm-4.30pm and Wednesday mornings 6.45-8.00am
• Year 6 at Little Langlands, Monday mornings 6.45am-8.00am and Wednesday afternoons 3.15pm-4.30pm

Rugby and Football – Coaches/Referees

If you have an interest in refereeing or coaching, please contact:

Year 5-12 Football – Anthony Kemp email: akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au

Year 5-12 Rugby – Chris Everding email: ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au

AIC Chess

More information regarding Chess will come out in the weeks to come. Trials will commence soon. Chess is played on Friday afternoon. Boys can do Chess, Cross Country and either Rugby or Football if they wish.

AIC Cross Country

More information regarding Cross Country will come out in the weeks to come. Training will commence sometime before the end of term. The AIC Cross Country Championship is held during school time in Term 2, that is, Wednesday 1 June. Boys can participate in  Cross Country, Chess and either Rugby or Football if they wish.

Composite Sport

Please find below a list of composite trial and nomination dates. All paperwork can be collected from the Sports Office.

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

Lessons and Rehearsals
We continue our rehearsal program through the Musical Production period.  To assist in managing our space through this busy period, all Band rehearsals have been moved from Hanrahan Theatre Stage to the Playhouse up to and including Friday 25 February.  Conversely, all Guitar Ensemble rehearsals across this period have been moved to Hanrahan Theatre Stage from the Playhouse.

Loan Agreements
Year 5 students and older students loaning a College instrument should have received a loan agreement this week for the item they will have in their care.  Please ensure these agreements are returned as soon as possible – we cannot release an instrument from the College without a signed agreement.  Teachers have been in communication directly with families impacted by any delay here.  If you have any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Music Office on 3394 5691.

Musical
On behalf of the Music Department, I would like to commend the entire Arts team, cast, crew, and musicians for the stellar job they have done in putting together what was a fantastic show.  I have the wonderful opportunity to be the MD for this show, and I must say it has been a great experience seeing our performers develop their craft over this time.  Well done all!

Health and Safety
We are returning to regular activities with the appropriate hygiene measures in place.  As per College policy, we ask students who are unwell to remain home, and masks will be required to be worn as we move through the building.  To reconnect you all with our hygiene procedures, this information was distributed via email reminding us all of how we will work in a COVID environment.

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! View flyer here.

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 will go to the Music Support Group.

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

Mr. Michael Jones, Director of Music

Villanova College Book Fair 2022

Books @Stones is pleased to be able to support Villanova College with their 2022 Book Fair.  The College has organised author Sofie Laguna and illustrator/author Mandy Ord to be in residence from 28 February to 4 March and 7 to 11 March respectively.

We will have a selection of their books (as well as a wide range of other books) available for purchase from the evening of 1 March until the afternoon of 8 March, which includes before and after school as well as during recess times.

Thirty percent (30%) of all sales during the book fair will be available for the College to purchase library books.  Purchases through our website (www.booksatstones.com.au) using the Villa Book Fair shipping option or in store showing this flyer during the period 27 February to 13 March will also be included to calculate the 30% benefit for the Tolle Lege Library.

About Sofie Laguna
Sofie Laguna originally studied to be a lawyer, but after deciding law was not for her, she moved to Melbourne to train as an actor. Sofie worked for many years as an actor before she began to write – both for children and adults.

Sofie’s second novel for adults, ‘The Eye of the Sheep’ – shortlisted for the Stella Prize – won the 2015 Miles Franklin Award. It has been optioned for both film and theatre. Sofie’s first novel for adults, ‘One Foot Wrong’, published throughout Europe, the US and the UK, was longlisted for the Miles Franklin Award and shortlisted for the Prime Minister’s Literary Award. Screen rights have been optioned and Sofie has completed the screenplay.

Sofie’s many books for young people have been published in the US, the UK and in translation throughout Europe and Asia. She has been shortlisted for the Queensland Premier’s Award, and her books have been named Honour Books and Notable Books by the Children’s Book Council of Australia.

Sofie has just released her fourth novel for adults, Infinite Splendours, to critical acclaim and her first children’s novel in ten years, The Song of Lewis Carmichael.

Sofie lives in Melbourne with her husband, illustrator Marc McBride, and their two young sons. 

About Mandy Ord

Mandy Ord is a comics artist, illustrator, educator, and a disability support worker with a long history of self-publishing. Mandy’s first book Rooftops (Finlay Lloyd) 2008 was followed by Sensitive Creatures (Allen & Unwin) in 2011 receiving a White Ravens award at the Bologna Book Fair. She has contributed stories to Meanjin, The Age, Voiceworks, The Lifted Brow, Going Down Swinging and Trouble Magazine. In 2018 she illustrated her first book for children, Chalk Boy published by Allen & Unwin and written by Margaret Wild which was shortlisted in 2019 by CBCA and the Queensland Literary Awards for Picture Book of the Year.

Mandy has collaborated with theatre companies, writers, musicians, historians, local Wiradjuri language experts, augmented reality designers and audio units for online content. In 2020 her book When One Person Dies The Whole World is Over, published by Brow Books was longlisted for The Stella Prize and shortlisted for the Small Press Network Book of the Year. She is currently working on a book of short stories.

Access the Mandy Ord Workshop Registration Form here

Please contact the Tolle Lege Library on 3394 5531 if you would like any further information on the visiting authors, the festival or our bookstore.

Ms. Antonietta Neighbour, Director of Library and Information Services

EVENTS

David De Vito Concert
In a Pickle antipasto plates will pair very well with Greg Cooley Wines and powerhouse tenor, David De Vito’s dulcet tones for a night to remember.

Join us on the lawns at Villanova College with the city skyline as the backdrop, raising much needed funds for our Filipino brothers and sisters through the (AFAS) Australian Filipino Augustinian Solidarity, Elders Project.

With guest artists Tabatha Ashmore & Nadyne Thorne and supported by Luke Dickens of Australian Idol fame.
Strictly limited tickets. Get yours now here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing?eid=824008

Master Plan Brief and P & F Annual General Meeting

Join the Villanova College Parents and Friends (P & F) Association for a briefing on Villanova College’s Master Plan with Principal Paul Begg. A short Annual General Meeting for the P & F Association will also take place. Light refreshments provided. Health guidelines require attendees to register prior to the event.

Monday 7 March 2022 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Tolle Lege Library
Sixth Avenue, Coorparoo QLD 4051

For information and to register visit: Master Plan Brief and P & F Annual General Meeting Tickets, Tolle Lege Library, Coorparoo | TryBooking Australia

Sports Lunch
The 8th Annual Villanova Sports Lunch is here and will be raising funds to support all sports at Villanova College. Fun, food and laughter all the way with your MC – Victoria Carthew. Ticket price includes special guest comedian Greg Ritchie and sensational guest panellists including Andrew Mehrtens, and other special guests to be announced. Also included is a two-course meal and a four hour drinks package (beer, wine, sparkling and soft drinks). Very limited tickets. Get yours now here: https://www.trybooking.com/BXOLD

UNIFORM SHOP
Uniform shop opening hours are available here:  https://www.vnc.qld.edu.au/our-community/uniform-shop/

FINANCE
As FACTS Management has now been introduced, school fee payments through BPay will no longer be an available payment option.  Please log into https://factsmgt.com.au/ or phone FACTS on 1300 322 871 to arrange the payment of school fees.

TUCKSHOP
It would be greatly appreciated if students could bring their 2021 student cards or cash to make Tuckshop purchases, until new student cards are issued. This aids an efficient service for the boys. Boys without student cards are asked to bring cash until the 2022 ID cards have been distributed. Inputting student numbers is greatly slowing down service time. Thank you for you cooperation.

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

Tuckshop Volunteers

The Villanova College Tuckshop is a modern, commercial area of your school 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.
It’s 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 from 8.30am to 1.30 pm but for those of you who can accommodate or prefer an earlier start and/or finish, rostering can begin with the breakfast shift from 7.00am.

Even if you are only able to give just an hour or two, this is still very welcome – 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 a fantastic 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 wonderful way to seek advice from parents who have “been there, done that”
• it is a lot of fun

Please consider volunteering carefully. WE NEED YOU!
If you are interested in volunteering, you can either call the Tuckshop on 3394 5592 or email Dot Blair – tuckshop@vnc.qld.edu.au

Thank you.

Dot Blair, Villanova 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

STUDENT RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS AND OTHER INFORMATION COLLECTION NOTICE
The Student Residential Address and Other Information Collection is an annual data collection performed by the Australian Government.  Approved authorities are required under the Australian Education Regulation to complete this collection.

To ensure Villanova College provides accurate details, parents are requested to login to Parent Lounge to ensure that their details are correct. Further information about the Collection can be found here.