Villa View: Issue 05/21

Dear Members of the Villanova College Family,
The Lenten Season has commenced and for Christians across the world this is a very important time of renewal. It is also a time of reflection and a time of purpose. During the Lenten season we often speak of sacrifices that an individual will undertake during the 40 days. Some of us may have given up sweets, chocolates, chips and other luxuries.

Our students during the Lenten Season are asked to support Project Compassion and Caritas Australia in assisting the poor across Australia and the world. Through their generosity of giving money to support the work of Caritas, we take a positive step towards ending poverty and injustices in our world. In the words of Saint Oscar Romero, we are challenged to, “Aspire not to have more, but to be more.”

On behalf of our community, I thank you for your continuing support of Project Compassion and our efforts to make a difference through this giving program.

Sportsmanship
I must admit I am a fan of Ash Barty. She is a fantastic sportsperson and a great role model for all students who strive for excellence in their sporting lives. What I most like about Ash Barty is her humility and how gracious she is in defeat. Recently at the Australian Open, Ash Barty lost the Quarter-Final and despite commentators calling the time-out her opponent took due to heat exhaustion unfair, she did not join in blaming her opponent or make excuses for losing the match. Her behaviour and attitude were a great example to all sportspersons. She took responsibility for the loss.

Over the last few weeks, I have spoken to our Senior students about how best to support their peers on the sporting fields and courts. Our supporters become very passionate about their teams and wanting the players to win the competition on the day. In their enthusiasm they sometimes cross over from being supporters to an undisciplined and unruly mob shouting at the opposition to put them off their game.

Today, poor behaviour from spectators at games where players are abused is simply unacceptable. In all codes when this happens the supporters are removed from the ground and sanctioned in some form.

Our young men need to understand and to learn the difference between being a supporter of the team, applauding the talents of the players and a “yobbo” on the sideline yelling abuse at the opposition. In AIC Sport, abusing players, match officials and coaches/managers is never acceptable and will not be tolerated.

Our job as educators and parents is to ensure our young men understand good sportsmanship extends beyond the players on the field, it extends to spectators as well. We expect our students to applaud the players enthusiastically and to cheer them on to do their best. If their team wins the match to accept graciously, and in defeat to do so with humility and grace.

AIC Swimming Competition
On Friday, our AIC Swimmers will compete in the 2021 AIC Championship at the Chandler pool. We wish all our swimmers every success on the day. I know that our swim team has been training hard over the past weeks in the lead up to the competition and every Friday night they have hit the water in competitions between other AIC Colleges. Thank you to our coaches and managers for their efforts over the season.

Prayers and Thanks
Last week we received the news that Nicholas Cherry – Year 7 has received a donor heart, following surgery in Melbourne.  The early results are very positive, and Nicholas is responding well. Michael and Sylvia, his parents wanted to express their thanks to all in our community who have supported the family and kept them in their prayers. We are hoping Nicholas will return to Brisbane and the College in Term Three.  Please keep Nicholas and the Cherry family in your prayers.

You have made us for Yourself O Lord
And our hearts are restless until they rest in You.

God bless

Mr Mark Stower, 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, Callum Hackett (Acting Junior School Pastoral Leader) and I have spent time in each classroom establishing the Five Elements of a Relationship Framework – or rather, in simpler terms, explicit teaching about how to get along with each other.

Friendships are about when we find things in common with people – humour, likes and dislikes – connections are based on experiences together and a willingness to accept each other.  Not all classmates are close friends, yet we need to share a space and work together in a way that promotes belonging and respect.  To be our best, we need to be responsible for promoting the best in other people.  It is a lifelong skill to work collaboratively and Junior School students need our support to learn how to achieve this.

The Search Institute (Developmental Relationships Framework | Search Institute (search-institute.org) clearly sets out five ways we can make relationships powerful for young people.  So, this week we build upon Circle Time, Restorative Practices and Well Being with the Developmental Relationships Framework.

1. Expressing Care is really the very first step in forming a relationship. Listening, being present in conversation and valuing a person – genuinely caring about their very essence – is important.  “How do I matter to you?” Is what all children and adults work out very quickly.  We need to feel safe, that we belong and matter in our spaces.  We feel valued when people pay attention to our unique interests, talents, and sparks.  Students can do this just as well as teachers and parents.  It takes time, consideration, and effort, but it is the number one game changer in any relationship.
2. Challenging Growth is one of the most valuable elements. Boys can be quite content to do well in what they like and avoid or use humour to dismiss what is difficult.  Reaching their potential takes application, accepting feedback and a willingness to push through a mindset that tells them it is not going to be worth it.  Everyone in life needs to continue growing as people, no one individual is perfect.  We must be accountable and reflect on how to improve.
3. Providing Support through clear boundaries, high support and building trust out of consistency and advocacy (“speaking up for me when it matters”) means people feel safe to take risks and make mistakes in front of others. Learning can be hard, and students want to know they will have us beside them no matter what.  They will make mistakes (just like adults do), and they need to trust that we will guide them and teach them how to move forward.  Students need to develop the confidence to also support their peers in a similar manner – this is where student leaders shine in learning, sporting teams and in times of conflict – but all boys have the potential to if they are brave.
4. Sharing Power can be an element that is overlooked, but it is a simple gesture to empower our students to include them, listen to their ideas and opinions, and hand over the limelight and control periodically. There is a general misconception that adults have “it all figured out” and thoroughly enjoy directing children worldwide what to do in life.  Little do they know just how exhausting being responsible can be!  So, share the wheel – let the boys spin it to the left or right for a change.  Take this time seriously and get on board – we must model how to follow them.  One day, in the not too soon future, that is exactly what we will be doing.
5. Expanding Possibilities brings inspiration to learning. We are not the end point of all opportunities, knowledge, and skills.  Connecting boys to experts, organisations, clubs, and competitions allows them to follow their dreams and realise their exponential world outside the College grounds.  Learning is lifelong and they are very fortunate to be in 2021, not bound by the A-Z Encyclopedia set I do recall quite vividly as being the sum of world knowledge in my primary school.  True story.

These elements are intertwined in everyday teaching and learning.  They form part of our 21st Century Skills where communication, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking form part of our pedagogy in the St Thomas of Villanova Learning Centre spaces.  Above all, we want our young men to learn them and be aware of how important they are for happiness and self-fulfilment.  They should know we want them around us, we want the best for them, and we will be here no matter what.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Over the last few weeks, I have received a number of phone calls from parents and members of the wider community raising concern about the safety of Villanova College Middle School students gathering at Carindale Shopping Centre after school.

I understand that the shopping centre serves as a transit place for boys as they catch connecting buses on their way home. In recent weeks however, there have been a growing number of boys, mostly from Years 8 and 9, who have been gathering in the food court, or other locations in and around the centre.

My understanding is our students have behaved appropriately; they have drawn the attention of young people (not from the College) who have had ill-intentions. This includes verbal targeting of our students and on least two known occasions, our students have been physically assaulted. I have also received unconfirmed reports about our students being offered illicit substances or being exposed to their usage.

I am writing to you because I firmly believe the risks are real and current. I strongly recommend that students visiting Carindale Shopping Centre after school only do so with parents, or for the sole purpose of catching connecting buses. The College will be engaging with Carindale Centre Management and their security team, as well as enlisting the support of Carindale Police Beat.

At a broader level, I ask parents to be mindful of the risks associated with teenage boys left in unstructured and unsupervised situations. As we support and foster the growth and maturity of our young men, we also need to understand the reality of social pressures and misguided judgment.

For parents with specific concerns or those requiring additional support from the College in this area, I would encourage you to contact your son’s Year Level Coordinator:

Year 7:  Mr Ben Lynam  –  blynam@vnc.qld.edu.au
Year 8:  Mr Matt McGrath  –  mmcgrath@vnc.qld.edu.au
Year 9:  Mr Alex Sullivan  –  asullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au

Thank you for your understanding and on-going support.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Senior School Study Tips – Effective Time Management
As discussed at the recent series of Senior School Parent Information Evenings, one of the many challenges presented to our young men in their study program is consistently applying effective time management strategies.

According to Stella Cottrell, best selling author of The Study Skills Handbook, there are ten steps to good time management:

1. Be systematic in your time management;
2. Find out your time requirements;
3. Clarify how you use your time currently;
4. Decide how you want to spend your time;
5. Prioritise what is most important;
6. Plan what you will do and when;
7. Do it, keeping to your plan;
8. Apply time management techniques;
9. Manage distractions and procrastination;
10. Monitor – keep checking that it is all working.

In the Academic Coaching Program and in discussions during the Transition into Senior School Interview, we are working with all Senior School students to promote these steps and strategies, especially with regards to the formulation of study plans and applying time management techniques such as chunking. If you have any concerns regarding your son’s study habits at home, please contact your son’s Academic Mentor.

 Podcast of the Week
For ardent readers of my weekly column, you would know how much I value the philosophical ideals underpinning the concept of a renaissance man. Furthermore, as an English teacher, the aesthetic beauty and literary magnificence of Shakespeare continues to inspire me. Amid those two fields of interest, I came across a wonderful podcast last week from one of my favourite series- The Art of Manliness.

Entitled “How to Think Like a Renaissance Man”, the podcast explores the insights of professor of English Scott Newstock, author of the book, “How to think like Shakespeare: Lessons from a Renaissance Education”. The conversations focuses upon the following interest points:

• How does our modern education system compare to what Shakespeare received? Where does it fall short?
• How have students changed over the last couple decades?
• The power of language (and learning a second language!)
• What is “Shakespearean” thought?
• The craft of thinking and writing (and how it’s evident in Shakespeare’s plays)
• What does originality really mean?
• How can the Great Conversation contribute to your education?
• The lowdown on Shakespeare’s sonnets
• How constraints can contribute to your success and creativity

You can access the podcast here: https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/think-like-renaissance-man/

‘Brevity is the soul of wit.‘ – (Hamlet) William Shakespeare

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Living Gratefully and Walking Humbly!
Moments of appreciating the insights and perspectives of young people sometimes come at the most unexpected times.  As teachers we are constantly in the process of learning from and with our students.

This week in Year 11 Study of Religion, we are examining how sacred texts can help us to answer life’s ultimate questions, and we began by brainstorming what the boys think the biggest questions are.  In the mix were wonderful questions, and every single boy in the class shared at least one question.  The energy was high, and there was a daring of edge to get to some depth that started with humour and settled into deeper consideration:

What happens after we die?
Is God real?
Why does suffering happen?
How did we get here?
What is pain?
Am I in God’s simulation?
Are we alone?
What is our purpose in life?
Is this reality actually real?
Does everything happen for a reason?
What is love?
Does a good end result justify the use of unjust processes to get there?

It was a fantastic exploration into the minds and hearts of 16 and 17 year olds.  I initially wanted to disregard or tidy up some of the questions, but I actually stopped and listened a little deeper and realised the boys were serious.  For example, in the context where so much time is spent online in virtual realities, the questions around reality were genuine for the boys.  Our lesson moved then to consider how we find the answers to these questions and we started to consider the need for perspectives that go across time and different places, for the opportunity to gather perspectives from others who have gone before us, for recognition of how our own understanding of experiences is different at different times in our lives.

One of the boys shared a conversation he had with his Mum on the way to school that morning where together they were contemplating if everything happens for a reason.  As a teacher and a Mum, I know how often these conversations with boys happen in the midst of things like driving or walking somewhere together!  He was exploring the meaning of suffering and the way that it makes us stronger and more compassionate.  In the classroom as he recalled the conversation, there was a sense of the divine present.  The sense of something bigger with us in life, a knowing and trusting that invites us deeper into life.  The presence I name God.  It made me think again of all the times we need to pay attention and listen deeper to the questions being asked by our boys and to help them unpack them.  It is a job shared between school and home, between teachers and parents as we work together with the young people in our care.

‘Be More AWARE’ in Lent
As we enter into the theme of ‘Be More’ this Lent, there are five ways we are invited through Caritas to consider how we build a more just world.  This week we are invited to “be aware”. 

Poverty, hunger, oppression and injustice make it impossible to live a life that reflects our God given dignity.  Poverty is created by the actions of people – so the actions of people can end it.  We can and must work together towards the creation of a more just and fairer world.  We do not do this just out of charity or goodwill, but because we believe the life of Jesus, the Gospels and Catholic Social Teaching make it a key part of living a life of Christian faith.

Pope Francis urges us in this regard:

“I pray too that you may involve in your efforts those whom you seek to help; give them a voice, listen to their stories, learn from their experiences and understand their needs.  See in them a brother and a sister, a son and a daughter, a mother and a father.”

Caritas Australia is calling for the world to put the poorest first and unite behind the United Nations Global Goals.

At home over the coming week, a great dinner conversation would be to imagine what the world would be like if we fed, gave drink, visited, cared for, clothed and welcomed all people (Matthew 25). What injustices would end?  What new horizons would emerge?

God of Justice, awaken in me the determination to work for a more just world.
God of Love, prompt me to always seek the truth.
God of Compassion, strengthen me to raise my voice in solidarity with those experiencing poverty and marginalisation.
God of Strength, enliven in me the courage to stand beside those fighting injustice.
God of Grace, inspire me to be  more rather than to want more.
May I learn to walk your way of mercy and compassion with all.
May I be generous with what you have freely given so that my brothers and sisters can live life to the full.
Amen

Sunday Readings at Home
Please use this link to access this week’s readings and commentaries:

Ms Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

Time flies and last weekend marked the half point of the AFL, cricket and volleyball season. Our swimmers are making their final preparations for the up-coming AIC Swimming Championships and we are already looking ahead to next term’s sporting program which includes Rugby, Football, Cross Country and Chess. There are certainly plenty of opportunities for our students to become involved. By now all students and families should be aware of the online sports sign-on process. Currently the online sign-on form for those wishing to participate in AIC Rugby, Football, Chess and Cross Country is open. Simply click on the link provided and complete your choices. The information collated from these forms is used to plan and prepare the season ahead. This form is available on the College’s website and is due tomorrow, Friday 26 February. Further information regarding the Trimester 2 Sign-on process as well as the link is found below.

 We currently need parents and Old Boys to assist the College by coaching and refereeing teams/games for both rugby and football in 2021. Your son/s need your help. If you are able to assist, please make contact with Mr Chris Everding (Rugby) – ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au or Mr Anthony Kemp (Football) – akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au from the Sports Office. We wish to finalise all coaches/referees for up-coming AIC Rugby and Football season as soon as possible.

Please be advised that all coaches and referees will be required to undertake online Child Protection and Privacy training and all non-parent volunteers will be required to hold a current Blue Card.

To assist families with their forward planning, please find below a full schedule of the ‘Term 2 AIC Sports Training Schedule’. All teams training at Villanova Park will be transported to the venue by bus. Parents will be required to collect their son/s after training.

Our wish as a College is to use Villanova Park as much as possible. The training schedule is designed so that all rugby and football teams from Years 7 – 12 have enough space to train adequately and are at the same location at the same time for our skills coaches in both rugby and football to monitor/assist coaches and player development.

 On behalf of the College, I wish all the AIC swimmers the very best in their preparations for the up-coming AIC Swim Championships held tomorrow at Chandler. Due to a number of COVID-19 restrictions, the AIC management committee has decided not to allow student spectators this year. Parents are invited to attend; however, they will need to prebook a ticket online. All these details are found within the AIC Swimming section on the College’s website.

Villanova had another solid weekend of results v St Patrick’s College. It was great to see our Volleyballers achieve excellent results across the grades. Our AFL teams continue to go very well. Our quest to take out the AIC AFL aggregate this year will be tested this weekend v St Laurence’s as they too have many undefeated teams heading into this round. Our cricket did not do as well as expected over the weekend, although winning most games, I don’t think we were at our best. Full credit goes to St Patrick’s on their wins though.

I know our boys are looking forward to putting on the green and gold this weekend as we take on St Laurence’s College in the local derby in AFL, cricket and volleyball. As always, we ask every Villa boy to stand up and be counted this weekend to ensure we perform at our best. I’m backing the boys in green and gold all the way, good luck to all and please enjoy!

Round 5 Fixtures – Friday 26 and Saturday 27 February, AIC AFL, Cricket and Volleyball v St Laurence’s College
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.

Swimming, Cricket and Volleyball Photo Schedule – Friday 26 and Saturday 27 February 2021
The following team photos will be taken this weekend for Swimming, Cricket and Volleyball. The boys will need to be at the photos 10 minutes before their scheduled time, dressed in their full sports attire. Any latecomers will miss out on being in the photo.

Swimming Photo – Friday 26^th Quadrangle (near Langlands)

• Boys are to wear their green PE shorts and Villanova squad shirt (purchased from uniform shop) for the photo.

Cricket Photos – Saturday 27^th Kianawah Park (Wynnum Rd end of Field 9)

Cricket Photos – Saturday 27^th Villanova Park (behind the scoreboard next to Andrew Slack Oval)

Volleyball Photos – Saturday 27^th Undercroft (near Tuckshop)

AIC CRICKET
Mr Chris Everding, AIC Co-ordinator

It was a day of high drama, excitement, jubilation and disappointment at Villanova Park where our Year 7 – 9 teams were taking on a much-improved SPC cricket outfit. Both games on Andrew Slack Oval finished in dramatic circumstances and had all players and spectators on edge. The 9As were looking like being beaten easily as SPC were cruising, chasing down 85 runs but some excellent bowling and pressure catches had SPC chasing a few runs with one wicket in hand. They managed to tie the scores before Lachlan Ebrington send down a perfect yorker that cleaned bowled the SPC batsmen and had the Villanova boys jubilant. Even though it was a tie, both sides put on a great show and it was very exciting finish.

The 8A team followed and it was a total reversal of the morning’s match, with Villanova bowling very well to keep SPC to a total of 89 runs. Villanova were cruising along and looked like taking the win before the pressure mounted with the loss of a few key batsmen. This game came down to the last ball. One ball and one run needed by Villanova and SPC needing one wicket. Another run out on the last ball but unfortunately Villa couldn’t escape with a win. With players shaking hands and walking off believing it was a tie, the scorers were settling the book and discovered that early on a run had not been included in the final score. After a short and tense deliberation with the SPC coach and scorer, it was agreed by both parties that Villanova had actually won the match by 1 run. It did turn out to be a lucky escape.

Over at SPC the Opens had a tough day out with the Firsts, Seconds and 4ths all going down to gritty SPC teams. The Firsts now sit in a four-way tie for the lead with SPC, Ashgrove and Padua. The Thirds redeemed themselves after a loss to Ashgrove last week with a mighty win scoring 3/359 off their 35 overs and bowling SPC out for 75.

The pleasing aspect at the halfway point of the season has been the improvement of the Year 6 to Year 9 teams. They are playing positive cricket and putting themselves in winning positions each week by working on the basics and by encouraging each other out on the field. The boys are following plans and believing in their abilities and that of their teammates.

This week we have traditional rivals SLC and there will be some very tight close matches as both schools hustle to dominate the other. Good luck to all sides this Saturday and if you get the opportunity the First XI would love a crowd at Villanova Park. This round over the years has produced classic finishes, with results coming in the last few overs of the match.

AIC Cricket Results v St. Patrick’s College

Villanova Team of the Week – Round 4

Zone Cricket
Villanova is looking for parents to get involved with the running of the Villanova Cricket Club, which runs the Term 4 Zone cricket. We have had a few parents run the organisation of the Club Cricket for a number of years and unfortunately, Ross Whitby, Jeff Ilka and Phil Horton will be moving on as their son’s play their last couple of years at Villanova. The administration side of cricket is run by the College, but the Team make up, selections, meeting attendance, general coordination is all run by Villa Parents.

If you are able to join a group of keen cricketing parents to coordinate cricket in Term 4, could you please contact the Sports Office to discuss what is involved and the structure of the season.

AIC VOLLEYBALL
Mr Todd Kropp, AIC Volleyball Co-ordinator

Round 4 of AIC Volleyball saw many of our teams find that confidence and self-belief in their abilities to come away with a fantastic overall result for Villanova. In total we had 17 wins and 3 losses across the board which is a sensational effort – congratulations to all players and coaches!

It was evident to see on the weekend against St Patrick’s that the opening tough three rounds of the AIC Volleyball season have prepared our teams well. There were many well deserved wins during the round and in particular I would like to say well done to our teams who have got themselves off the mark with their opening win for the season (Second XI, 9C and 7A). Hopefully, this is the kickstart to a strong finish to the volleyball season. The First VI side came away with a win against St Patrick’s which sees them stay in the hunt for the premiership. Their next game against SLC will be a make-or-break game and no doubt a thrilling exhibition of volleyball skills. Our Year 11 and 10 sides continue to lead the charge for Villanova with the 11B, 11C, 10B and 10C sides all undefeated at this stage of the season.

The next round of volleyball doesn’t get any easier with us taking on local rivals St Laurence’s. It is certainly not a week to get comfortable after many of our sides enjoyed a win, as SLC are always up for the challenge. This week will see our senior (10-Opens) teams playing at home and our Junior (Year 7-  Year 9) teams playing away at St Laurence’s. Please check the weekly fixtures for game times and venue.

This weekend will see our teams playing at home (10-Opens) have their team photo taken. Please check the schedule (newsletter and College website) to know when your team photo is being taken. All boys will be required to be at the team photo 10 minutes before it is taken in full playing attire. Any latecomers will unfortunately miss out.

Please note that all players are asked to be in the correct uniform for their games of volleyball on Saturday – no rugby or basketball shorts, no black socks.  Please check the College website for more information.

Volleyball Canteen Roster

AIC Volleyball Results v St Patrick’s College

SWIMMING
Mrs Juanita Jacobs, AIC Swim Co-ordinator

By now all swimmers and their families should be aware of the arrangements put in place for the AIC Swimming Championships held tomorrow. Be aware that tickets to the event must be prebooked and we encourage you to print the tickets out and present them to the ushers on the day to prevent waiting in line.

All carnival details as well as team lists etc, are posted on the web under the AIC Swimming section.

We were able to bring the team together today to enjoy a pizza lunch and to go through all the last-minute instructions. We ask all squad members to travel out to Chandler on the buses provided tomorrow. The boys may go home with their parents after the carnival, but they must advise one of the swim managers before departing.

Well done to all swimmers for a great pre-season and best wishes tomorrow. We ask everyone to get a good night’s sleep and be at school tomorrow at 6.40am ready and raring to go.

A full swim report will be given in next week’s Villa View.

Friday 26 February – AIC Swim Championships at Chandler Pool

• The swim squad meets in the Middle School quadrangle at 6.40am for a team brief and photo
• Bus departs the College for Chandler at 7.00am
• Arrive at Chandler 7.30am, warm up 8.00am-8.30am, first event at 8.45am
• Presentations are between 1.15pm-1.30pm
• Bus departs Chandler at 1.45pm and returns to the College
• Parents may collect their son from Chandler or back at the College at 3.00pm

AIC AFL
Mr Adam Fry, AIC AFL Co-ordinator

Another fantastic weekend for Villanova AFL, six wins and only the single loss. It was terrific to see the teams overcome some tough opposition and have outstanding wins. The strength of each team is clearly displayed by the will and want to play for your teammates. We need to ensure we keep this up for the remaining three  fixtures.

This weekend will see all teams up against our fierce local rivals in St Laurence’s College. We cannot underestimate our opposition and must be prepared for a tough round of fixtures. Our Opens are still undefeated and will meet the other Open side that is also undefeated. It would be amazing to see the Villa Army on Friday on the hill supporting our boys in such a pivotal game. Remember to support and play in the right manner always respecting the opposition and supporters.

Another fantastic note is the number of teams still undefeated going into Round 5. We have three junior teams as well as our Year 7s who continue to dominate. It must be acknowledged that in four rounds the Year 7s has only conceded a total of 8 points. This is an unbelievable effort, and the boys know that this week is a big one on the calendar.

Good luck to all teams this weekend, it is a massive round for us, and we need to be up for the challenges ahead.

AIC AFL Results v St Patricks and Padua College

TRIMESTER 2 SPORT SIGN-ONS – RUGBY, FOOTBALL, CHESS AND CROSS COUNTRY – NOW ONLINE
All students who are interested in representing Villanova 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 ID number, email address, parent’s email address, DOB and sport selection is required.

All nominations are due TOMORROW – Friday 26 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.

We hope to provide all A and B teams from Years 5 – 12 with two training sessions weekly, C teams and lower may only have one or perhaps two sessions depending on the coach. All games are played on Saturdays as per College Calendar.

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 15 March.

Training times and venues for all Year 5 – 12 rugby and football teams are listed below. All Year 5and6 teams will train at Little Langlands or Whinstanes. Year 7-12 teams will train at Villanova Park. The College will provide bus transportation to Villanova Park for all teams. Parents are required to collect their son from Villanova Park after training. There will be no return bus service from Villanova 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 First, Seconds, Thirds 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 

• Monday 15 – 19 March (Rugby and Football training/trials begins at Villanova Park for all Year 7 – 12 teams, Year 5 and Year 6 teams will trial at Little Langlands/Whinstanes)
• Saturday 20 March Internal AIC Rugby and Football Trials at Villanova Park (First, Seconds and 10A rugby and football v Iona only, all other teams will trial internally at Villanova Park)
• Saturday 27 March AIC Rugby and Football trial v SLC (full school trial – Year 5-12)
• Saturday 24 April AIC Rugby and Football trial v SPC (full school trial- Year 5-12)
• Saturday First May Round 1 – Sat 12th 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 Villanova 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, Thirds, Fourths and Fifths at Villanova Park 3.45 – 5.00pm, Monday and Wednesday afternoons
• First and Seconds at Villanova 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: akempatvnc.qld.edu.au
Year 5-12 Rugby – Chris Everding email: ceverdingatvnc.qld.edu.au

Please be advised that all coaches and referees will be required to undertake online Child Protection and Privacy training and all non-parent volunteers will be required to hold a current Blue Card.

AIC CHESS
Mr Nick Verity, AIC Chess Co-ordinator

Chess Trials – Boys wishing to be considered for selection in an AIC chess team must play internal trial games to determine their rank. These trials will take place in the form of round-robin tournaments within each age bracket.

Junior Trials (Year 5 and Year 6)
Trials will be conducted during second break times, commencing Monday 1 March (room to be confirmed – please check Morning Notices).

Middle (Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9), Senior (Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12) and Open Trials (Years 7 through 12)
Middle School trials will be conducted second during break times in T10 commencing Monday 1 March.

Senior School trials will be held on an afternoon during the week (to be confirmed – please keep an eye on Morning Notices).

AIC CROSS COUNTRY
The Cross Country program is split into two squads.  The Year 5 and 6 squad and the Year 7-Opens squad. Both squads will be trained separately by different coaches and managers. The AIC Cross Country Championships will take place on Wednesday 2 June, that is, Term 2, Week 7.

We are aware that many boys will have lots of different activities going on. We encourage our best runners to represent Villa on the day of the championships. It may be the case that a student may not be able to attend all training sessions due to other commitments. If this is the case, we simply need students to communicate this to the coaches and managers involved. We are open to negotiating alternative training schedules with those who have lots on.

Year 5 and Year 6 Squad
The Year 5 and 6 training squad will officially begin on Monday 29^th March, that is, the tenth week of Term 1. Training will be held each Monday and Wednesday afternoon from 3.15pm – 4.30pm. Boys are to meet Miss Roberts outside Goold Hall after school and she will walk the boys down to training at Little Langlands. Boys who cannot train both afternoons are encouraged to attend the non-compulsory training session on Sunday afternoons.

Junior (Year 5 and 6) Cross Country Dates
Trial – Friday 19 March at Little Langlands

Term 1 Training at Little Langlands
Mon 29, Wed 31 March

Holiday Training – Mon, Wed and Fri. at Whites Hill Reserve 8.30am – 10 am
April 5, 7 and 9 – 12, 14 and 16 and Mon 19

Term 2 – Training recommences at Little Langlands on Wed 21 April

Sunday training commences on Sunday 11 April
Enquiries: Tom Lonergan (Coach) 3349 0767 lonert24atgmail.com

Year 7-12 Squad
The Year 7-12 training squad will officially begin on Monday 15 March, that is, the eighth week of Term 1. Training will be held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 6.45am. All students are to meet at the front of Goold Hall at 6.45am sharp (not at Little Langlands). Late comers must stay at the College.

IMPORTANT! – All Cross Country runners should be participating in two to three training sessions per week, unless they are involved in another sport, in which case they should be completing at least one cross country session per week to be prepared sufficiently for the AIC Championship.

HOLIDAY RUGBY CLINIC
A pre-season holiday rugby clinic will operate from Villanova Park by 10K Sports on the 12 and 13 April. 2 programs will operate for the Year 5 and Year 6 and Year 7 and Year 8 age groups. The program incorporates recent rugby trends and professional training. Each program covers the essential skills for that age group.

We encourage Villanova rugby players to attend this camp over the Easter break but please hurry as limited places are available. Please see the flyer attached and on the ‘Locker Room’ for further details.

REPRESENTATIVE SPORT
Well done to Sebastian Shimizu who made the 12-14 Met East Baseball team. Sebastian will now compete at the State Championships in mid-March. Best wishes!

COMPOSITE SPORT
Please find below a list of composite trial and nomination dates. Paperwork for these trials is now available in the Sport Office.

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

Debut Concerts coming…
This year the Debut Concerts will be on the 16, 17 and 18 March and further information will be coming soon.  Please make sure your son has the correct uniform for whatever ensemble he plays in.

All Year 5 musicians are required to wear:

• grey shorts;
• formal white shirt (available from uniform shop);
• long school socks;
• school tie;
• black leather belt; and,
• polished black school shoes

The following table outlines uniform requirements for the remainder of our ensembles:

All uniform items can be sourced through the Uniform Shop or external clothing retailers.

For further information regarding uniforms for ensembles at Villanova College, please contact the Music Office on 3394 5691 or music@vnc.qld.edu.au

Rehearsals and Lessons Are Continuing…
All rehearsals and lessons are running as per routine throughout this camp period.  If your son is at school, we look forward to seeing him at his allotted session. If you have not received the appropriate information or are confused as to your son’s attendance requirements, please do not hesitate to contact the Music Office via email – music@vnc.qld.edu.au – or via phone on 3394 5691.

The Term 1 rehearsal schedule is attached.  Please ensure your son is aware of the time and location of his sessions.

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

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/BBQ/etc. this Summer! (flyer attached).

• Villanova Branded Camp Chairs – $31
• Wildcat Coolers – $26

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.

Date Claimers
And now we look ahead to what the term has in store…

Opportunity to Participate
The Music community at Villanova welcomes all students interested in participating in ensemble or instrument/vocal tuition.  If your son would like to take lessons on an instrument this year, please contact the Music Office on 3394 5691 or via email at music@vnc.qld.edu.au for further information.

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

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

entbook.com.au/22002q9

SAVE THE DATE – THE VILLA SPORTS LUNCH IS BACK!
Start organising your tables! The Greek Club will host a great afternoon on Friday 28 May featuring guest panellists, auctions, raffles and the hilarious comedian, Jimeoin. The committee has secured a great line-up of sports stars as guest panellists (watch this space). Booking details will be released shortly. The Sports Lunch is presented by the Villanova Sports Club and raises funds for College sporting programs and facilities. 

PARENTS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION AGM
The Villanova College Parents and Friends (P&F) Association warmly invites all new and current families to our Annual General Meeting on Monday 8 March at 6.00pm in the Tolle Lege Library.

The P&F is run by a team of parents who aim to support the College in providing a rich learning environment for all our students. We are responsible for managing the College community’s parent engagement, social and fundraising events, which have become synonymous with the welcoming atmosphere of our Villanova College community.

Your attendance does not require you to nominate for any executive role, although some executive roles will be open for nominations at this AGM. The P&F presents a great opportunity for you to engage in the College community in a capacity as small or as involved as suits your life, work and family commitments.

We hope to see many new and familiar faces at our AGM, or at any future P&F meetings, which are held on the second Monday of most months from 6.00pm in the Tolle Lege Library.

Vass Cayas, Villanova College P&F President

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.

VILLA WILDCAT TOWELS
Due to popular demand we have re-opened the TryBooking site to order your personalised Villa Wildcat towel. Orders will close at 3.00pm on Wednesday 10 March.

They will be delivered to school before the end of Term 1. On arrival, they will be distributed to your nominated son (if not advised differently). If you wish to collect it directly from me, please advise via email.

https://www.trybooking.com/BMEML

Thank you for your support on behalf of the Villa Sports Club.
Robyn Gunning, Email: rgunning@vnc.qld.edu.au

TUCKSHOP ROSTER (MONDAY 1 – FRIDAY 5 MARCH)
All volunteers rostered on this week will be contacted directly by the Tuckshop.

LIBRARY ROSTER (MONDAY 1 – FRIDAY 5 MARCH)
All volunteers rostered on this week will be contacted directly by the Library.