Villa View: Issue 07

Dear Members of the Villanova College Family
“A spectator’s leg was broken – just from merely looking on.”, is a line from the famous Banjo Patterson poem, The Geebung Polo Club. I think it is an apt description of the frenetic pace at the moment in the College with a host of activities clambering for our attention.

Footloose, the Musical has begun, and all four nights of the show have now been sold out. The cast and crew have worked diligently over the past three months to assemble a show with the ‘WOW’ factor. I am confident our community will be spellbound by the talents of the students from Villanova and Loreto Colleges.

The AIC Swimming Carnival saw Villanova College placed fifth overall. The Year 6 team were placed first and the Junior swimmers achieved an admirable third placing. Well done to our junior swimmers. There were many personal best times during the day and our congratulations and thanks must go to the coaches, managers and supporters.

On top of all these activities, the business end of this term is rapidly approaching. Assessment tasks, due dates and assignments are coming due and students need to be mindful of finding time to give their full attention to preparations for assessment.

As the end of the term approaches it is important we, the adults, keep a close eye on the amount of sleep our sons are achieving each night. At this pre-adolescent and adolescent age, we know the experts advice is to have a minimum of eight hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. Please ensure no mobile devices or computers are in the bedroom.

INTERNATIONAL CARNIVAL

Planning for the International Carnival is in full swing and the organising committee ably led by Mr Cameron Clelland is finalising the last-minute details. The International Carnival is the key fund-raising event for the Parents and Friends Association. The evening will be a spectacular event with food from across the world and wonderful entertainment for the whole family.

Over this final week in the lead up to the carnival the stalls are seeking the assistance of our families for a range of items. Please give where you can to assist our Parents and Friends Association.

LENTEN REFLECTION

Last week the Gospel reading describe the scene where Jesus drove the market sellers and money changers from the temple. It is a powerful story and conjures images of Jesus displaying displeasure at the actions of people in the temple. Later in the reading Jesus foretells of his resurrection and triumph over death when he says, “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up”

Jn 2: 13-25

Today, Jesus’ Spirit dwells within me, making my body a temple. I can pray because

God’s Spirit already rests in my body. Yet I sometimes feel a block in my sense of

relationship with God. When I act without love, when I use violent words, when I see

faults in others that I choose not to notice in myself … These decisions might lead me

to think of myself as removed from God’s favour and distant from God’s presence. But

Jesus wants me to return to relationship with him.

So now I ask Jesus for an ease in relating with God. I take time to consider the ways

my body is a temple of God’s Spirit. I ask God for a new sense of wonder and awe at all that I am. (Week Three- Lenten Reflection)

A SPECIAL MESSAGE

During the December holidays I attended the funeral of Daniel Roulant (’12) who tragically passed after contracting Meningococcal. Daniel’s parents, Nicolas and Leanne wished to thank the Villanova College community and raise awareness of Meningococcal disease.

“Our son Daniel Roulant (Villa Old Boy 2012) tragically passed away on 29 November last year after suddenly contracting Meningococcal B. Since his passing, we have received many messages of support, bunches of flowers, visits, as well as cooked meals, some of them prepared by Villanova Mums. Leanne and I would like to take this opportunity to thank those people in the Villanova Community who have been helping us through this extremely difficult time.

 Daniel was a wonderful son, an adored brother of April and Bradley (Year 11), and great friend to so many. He was a kind, loving, honest, dedicated, and hardworking young man that was always loyal to his family and friends. On the afternoon of 29 November, Daniel went to work ready to start his shift, shortly after arriving he started to feel unwell, by later that evening he was gone. That is how quick Meningococcal can strike.

As we do not wish any other family to have to endure the same suffering as ours in losing a child, we have made a commitment to help raise awareness of the dangers of Meningococcal, the symptoms and most importantly the need to vaccinate. There are two vaccines available. One covers the A, C, W, and Y Strains (made available to year 10 students last year and this year) and the other covers the “B” Strain released in 2014 (but only available via script from a GP). Meningococcal is on the rise, with 2017 having the most cases since 2005. So please discuss with your GP and ensure that your kids are vaccinated for all strains as most of them will not be.

 For further information on this deadly disease, please take the time to check the Meningococcal Australia Website (www.meningococcal.org.au) and discuss it with your friends and family as communication is key to saving lives.

Nicolas and Leanne Roulant

PRAYERS

We keep in our prayers the family of Ms Christianne Kemp following the death of her uncle Ian Jenkins in Canberra during the week. We also keep in our prayers the community of St Mary’s College, Kingaroy following the death of a Year 10 student.

May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen

God bless

Mr Mark Stower, College Principal

Next Friday, 16 March, is Australia’s “Anti-Bullying” Day.  It is a time to purposefully talk with our students about their perceptions, understanding and strategies for situations where they feel a lack of respect, safety or sense of belonging.  Bullying is a deliberate (planned) and repeated action by someone to cause another person to feel emotions that include embarrassment and shame. Bullying is about power – and aiming to have it over another person. Being on the receiving end of aggression or manipulation is an experience that no individual enjoys.  You feel alone. You feel fear or frustration.  There is a very real sense of injustice.  Human beings are complicated, and lives are not always what they seem.  There are two sides to every story – and often a series of events leading to any situation that involves conflict. Nonetheless, when we are spoken to unkindly, put down in front of others or sought out maliciously in numbers, then it is time to find someone you can trust, speak up and find strength in your community.

1. Tell someone – preferably an adult like a parent or a teacher. Talking about the experience is crucial.  It helps the person clarify the situation with perspective, especially if the adult is a great listener.  Talking about an unpleasant experience can often help the healing process.  No questions – you just need someone to listen.  You must identify the person/people involved and establish your perception of the situation.
2. Get help. That can involve all kinds of options.  Often having someone mediate can bring clarity and a wider picture of events.  Be brave enough to hear the other side of the situation.  Was there a mistake they are willing to own?  It can be the best form of an apology to hear the words “Yes, I said that” or “Yes, I did that”.  People need an opportunity to understand the hurt caused and the chance to admit poor choices. This stage is significant – without it, someone is likely to continue making poor choices.
3. Learn from the experience. Someone who has been hurt will learn about resilience, emotions, communication and trust.  Someone who causes harm will learn honesty, accountability and how to make amends.  There must be a chance for change.  There needs to be a way to move forward.  Everyone involved will learn, over time, how to work or play within the same space with respect.

Sharing your own stories over the next week with your sons might also prove beneficial.  Was there a time in your life that you felt someone was purposely trying to make you feel less about yourself? Was there a time when your words or actions have caused harm?

Here’s one I can share from my days at school.  There was a boy in my grade who was taking lunches at breaks.  He would walk right up to random children and scream in their face to give him all they had.  It was awful to watch as he would use his anger to shock and humiliate.  It got to the stage when I knew the chances of this being me at the next break was high.  Now I was a good eater in those days (ok, I still am) and I was not looking forward to giving up my lunch.

So, when the day finally arrived, the boy started walking up to me and I decided to go for something different.  I shoved my sandwich (yes, the whole thing) into my mouth and stared back at him.  I must have looked part panicked and part wild. Well, his whole face changed into a look of confusion and for a second he looked worried, as if my surprise response had caught him off guard.  He stopped dead in his tracks and had no words.  I took this opportunity to walk away – I had no interest in conflict and I was doing my best not to choke on my own lunch.  I’m not saying that my response was perfect – nor did it necessarily wave a wand and turn that boy into everyone’s best friend.  Yet it told him he couldn’t control everyone.  He thrived on his ‘moves’, getting what he wanted, and that day I turned the tables.

The sad thing is, I know that within a year he left the school.  I can only assume that things were not great for him – why else would you take lunches every day?  However, that’s with my adult head using hindsight and our boys’ understanding of being confronted or challenged will not always have that kind of patience or experience to fall back on.

Surrounding yourself with people of similar interests, senses of humour and work ethics is important.  However it is important to be open to people who think or act differently.  Appreciate the gifts that everyone brings to your life.  Acknowledge that differences are what makes us unique and loved by our families.  Understand that your limits or boundaries are personal, and a little give and take is normal.  We live in a world that is as much dynamic as it is beautiful. We deserve to be safe, respected and valued.  It will always be a work in progress – but we do have options if we ever need help.

On Friday 16 March, Australian schools will stand united in their communities to celebrate National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence. The boys are encouraged to bring to school something orange – hat, shirt, shorts, socks – to wear over the top of their sports uniform.  We will be selling orange jelly frogs in ponds, orange lolly bags and other treats for $2 per item – to be put towards our Caritas Lenten fundraising.  We will action the day as an opportunity to support anyone who is in need, whether it is here in Coorparoo or in a developing village in the remotest part of the planet.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Before embarking on the journey of parenthood, I will admit to being warned about the detriment that having kids would have on ones’ golf game. Years later, with two young children tearing up the house, this advice certainly rings true. However, on the rare occasion that I escape the madness and hit the course, I thoroughly enjoy having my skills, temperament and concentration tested by this great game!

Whilst these three components are essential in most sports, concentration is often something that brings even the professionals undone on the golf course. Champion golfer Jack Nicklaus once said, “concentration blocks out pressure. If you make mistakes and look for excuses, you lose your concentration and feel pressure.” Undoubtedly, we all have moments in our day-to-day lives where we lose concentration, thus increasing the risk of making mistakes and feeling pressure.

For adolescents with a developing brain, concentration, can be even more challenging.

So as assessment and exam demand increase with the fast-approaching end of term, and as study and revision become a more essential part of home routine, here are five pieces of advice we can offer our young men about concentrating:

Be Organised

• It’s easier to concentrate on the task at hand when you have set aside specific times for your other tasks. If you’re not organised, then you always seem to have too many things to do and you can’t get going on any of them.
• Write down all the tasks you have to do, breaking them into smaller parts wherever possible.

Comprehension

• Your class work material should fall into a pattern that flows and makes sense. If it seems like thousands of disjointed bits of information, then it will be far more difficult to remember, and you’ll have far more difficulty concentrating.
• Chunk information in bite-size pieces and use different conceptual maps to summarise your notes

Procrastinating

• Procrastination can stem from avoiding tasks you are not familiar with, being fearful of negative outcomes, or poor use of prioritising and time management.
• Develop a sense of progress. Break your study task down into achievable chunks. Each time you sit down to work, set an objective for that study session, then enjoy the accomplishment of getting it done.
• Choose your study space wisely, avoiding places where your focus can easily be lost (e.g. television, gaming, social media, etc).

Your body is a temple

• Remember, the mind and the body are not two separate things. To improve your concentration, get to know your own physiology better.
• For concentration, your body requires: sleep, nutrition and exercise.

Productive work environments

• When creating an effective study space at home, consider the following:
• Privacy – Find ways to eliminate unwanted interruptions.
• Noise – Too much or too little can both be problems.
• Air Quality – How’s the ventilation?
• Temperature – Is it too high or low?
• Comfort – Watch your posture and support. Avoid drowse-inducing positions.
• Clutter – Get everything off your desk except the work that you are currently doing.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Today is International Women’s Day, a global date celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. In Senior School Form Meeting’s this week, there has been an intentional focus on recognising the importance of gender equality and reinforcing that all males have an inherent responsibility to always treat women with respect. I would like to thank Year 10 Pastoral Area Leader Sean O’Neill and Senior School LET Program Leader Mrs Kath Underhill for their leadership in organising the program of events this week. #pressforprogress

Cor Unum Spirit Committee

One of the key pillars within the Senior School is proactive and purposeful student leadership. I would like to affirm the outstanding efforts of the Cor Unum Spirit Committee for their leadership endeavours during this first term, especially at Monday’s AIC Swimming Championships.

The Cor Unum Committee is comprised of Year 11 and 12 students who strive to foster spirit across all aspects of College life. Cor Unum is Latin for ‘one heart’ and this ties in with the 2018 Senior Vision of ‘Where there is unity, there is victory’. If all hearts are ignited by the flame of Villanova spirit, the student body is ultimately strengthened by a unified love of their College.

This committee will also be heavily involved in running House Cup events throughout the year.  Next week, Goold Hall will become an arena for the House Dodgeball Competition and I look forward to some healthy House rivalries emerging throughout these fixtures.

Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens

The first three habits that are articulated in this book speak of the ‘private victory’ and relate to self-mastery. It is important to be able to have a certain control and confidence pertaining to your own pathway before you can successfully synergise and engage with others. Habit One is to Be Proactive. The focus of this habit is to take responsibility for your actions and choices. This sentiment resonates with the Senior School pillar of Responsibility, whereby we challenge students to step up and to stop engaging in the blame game and/or playing the victim.

Cultivating a proactive and positive mindset is learning to control how we respond to what happens to us. Responding with a ‘can do’ attitude is what we endeavour to promote within our senior school students. George Bernard Shaw aptly states ‘people are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don’t believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can’t find them, make them.’

Can do people:

• Take initiative to make it happen;
• Think about solutions and options
• Act

 “Let’s be very clear: strong men – men who are truly role models – don’t need to put down women to make themselves feel powerful. People who are truly strong lift others up. People who are truly powerful bring others together.” Michelle Obama

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Many of the students love helping to build the culture at Villanova College. They are proud of the “Cor Unum” spirit that has been created over the years and want to provide their page in the story. This year – under the inspired leadership of the Student Leadership Team (“Where there is unity, there is victory”) – there has been a deluge of students volunteering for Ministry and Spirit groups. To take one snapshot: a classroom was packed on Friday with new recruits to YCS. Young Christian Students is one of the oldest ministries at the College and it works on the simple philosophy of “See – Judge – Act.” The students aim to pay attention to campus life with a view to creating a better and more welcoming community.

Straight away at the YCS meeting it was decided that the Junior School students would feel happier to join in with a “spirit rally” – supporters practising chants for Saturday sport – if YCS went down to Junior School to encourage Junior School boys to join in. The other decision at the meeting was to promote a culture in which “it is OK not to be OK.” In other words, students should feel permission to be honest about when things aren’t going well – for example if anxious about exams. More news to follow on this admirable initiative.

Project Compassion stand at The International Carnival

One other snapshot: The Middle School Ministry Group (YAYM) likewise had a packed meeting, with more newcomers arriving each week. One of their aims is to make 2018 the best ever year for raising awareness and funds for Project Compassion. (Catholic schools and parishes funding overseas projects to give a hand up rather than a hand out). To this end, three students would like to set up a Project Compassion Stand in the first few hours of the International Carnival. The stand will provide information about the Project Compassion projects and also to give you the chance to donate loose change to the cause. If we are spending on lob-a-choc and beautiful foods, then why not a little on this excellent cause? This week, for example, the campaign focuses on the story of a 12 year old Syrian girl who is a refugee in Jordan. The small change saved by Catholic students last year was accumulated to provide her with an education. Education means practical hope.

Morning Masses in the Chapel: Tuesday and Thursday at 8 am

The energy source for what students and teachers do to build community is the prayer and worship life of the College. This is a distinctive feature of Catholic schools. At the little Mass in the Chapel last Thursday, for example, we had 24 students from two pastorals, 7 teachers, 1 parent…and one excellent Chaplain (Fr Pete). There are often good sub-plots to these Masses. On this occasion, boys from Mr O’Hare’s pastoral had written prayers about growing the culture of the College. After the prayers, we welcomed a new Eucharistic Minister, Declan Edser (Year 12), who stepped up because he saw that we needed more.  Any parent or family member is welcome to join us for these regular celebrations. They are not in any way grand, but such Masses are and have been the life blood of the College for 70 years.

Would St Augustine recognise this school as a Christian community? Well, it was Augustine who focused us on the idea of “Cor unum,” urging his community to be “one in mind and heart on the way to God.” In turn, he took the idea from Saints Paul and Luke and their descriptions of the very first communities of Christians. Apparently, they were very impressive bunches of people because they looked after each other, and shared all they had in common. They did not block people out because of colour or class, and they met together for support, using prayer and actions taught at the Last Supper. Speaking of the Last Supper, the next whole school liturgy will be the Lenten Liturgy on Friday 16^th March in Goold Hall at 10.30 am. The theme will be the Way of the Cross in and for today’s world. All family members are welcome.

Worship and prayer leads to mission. Mission leads back to the need for mutual support in liturgy. That is something Augustine would recognise.

Mr John Holroyd, Dean of Identity and Mission

ST JAMES PARISH COORPAROO (date-claimer for 2018)

Email: osastjames@bne.catholic.net.au

Term 2: Yr 4 children who wish to continue their Sacramental Program with First Eucharist: May 20^th.

Term 3: Yr 3 children who wish to begin their Sacramental Program with Confirmation: begins August 26^th.

Term 4: Yr 5 children who wish to conclude their Sacramental Program with Reconciliation: begins October 21^st.

Week 8 – Rehearsals resume as per usual
Families are reminded that with the conclusion of our Musical over this weekend, all rehearsals will resume as per usual in the week commencing Monday 12 March.  With the remaining rehearsal opportunities within this term and the proximity of our first concerts next term, attendance at every rehearsal is vital.  Please ensure both you and your son are communicating with the ensemble director to ensure we track attendance effectively around sporting commitments and changes to routine.

If you have any concerns regarding lesson times or your son’s attendance, please do not hesitate to contact his teacher through the Music Office via email at music@vnc.qld.edu.au or telephone 3394 5691.

Year 5 Instrumental Music – Jump Start Day
Tuesday 27 March heralds our annual Year 5 Jump Start Day.  After almost a month of Instrumental Music Tuition, our Year 5 students and Music team have the fantastic opportunity to participate in a day of music making down in the Augustine Centre.  Across this day your sons will be participating in ensemble, small group, and choral musical activities.  This day provides him with a term’s tuition within a 7 – 8 hour period and allows the students to become aware of how to work within the team environment that is the ensemble rehearsal room.

Jump Start Day concludes with a brief concert in Hanrahan Theatre and a short meet-and-greet opportunity with your son’s Instrumental Music teacher.  We will also have representatives from our wonderful Music Support Group who are looking forward to meeting our new Year 5 families.  More information, including a schedule for the day will be distributed to families over the coming week.

Entertainment Books
Pre-sale envelopes for all students involved in Middle and Senior School ensembles have been distributed this week.  If your son is in one of the following groups and has not collected his pre-sale envelope from the Music Office, please ensure he visits us as soon as possible:

Concert Band                            Wind Ensemble                                     Symphonic Band

Guitar Ensemble 1                 Guitar Ensemble 2                               Choir

String Consort                          String Sinfonia

Our pre-sale drive will conclude on March 14 for the calculation of prizes, however students may continue selling books after this date.  Year 5 students will be receiving a hard-copy of the book to take home to assist with their section of the drive from 20 March.

Any questions or concerns regarding this drive may be forwarded to Mrs Alison Schrauf in the Music Office.

Performance Uniforms
As per our date claimer’s below, we have our first concert of the year during the week of ANZAC Day – Week 2 next term.  To assist families in preparing for this, I would like to share uniform requirements to ensure we are all adequately prepared for this event.

Please note:  only students from Year 6 and above need to organise performance uniform.  All Year 5 students, regardless of their ensemble involvement wear requirements as set out below.

Performance Uniform requirements for Villanova College ensembles are outlined below:

All Year 5 musicians are required to wear:

• grey shorts;
• formal white shirt (available from Villanova College 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 Villanova College 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

Date Claimers
As per tradition, we cast our eyes over the coming terms.  Please note the following in your diaries:

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

I must commend the entire AIC Swim Squad on their great performance at the annual AIC Swim Championships held at Chandler Pool on Monday. I was very impressed with the efforts of our 10 – 12 years team who gained third position overall. In the 12 years – Opens team, we were battling it out with St Laurence’s for fourth position for most of the day, however, our depth was tested in the relays and we slipped back into a credible fifth place overall.

The AIC Swim Championship this year saw great performances from many schools across all year levels. Villanova’s performance on Monday drew many positive comments from other colleges and it was great to see the boys perform well on the big stage. A huge thanks to all coaches, swim managers and to our Swim Coordinator, Mrs Juanita Jacobs for their efforts over the entire season to get our team ready for this event. Our team looked and performed like seasoned swimmers and they did us proud. Well done boys!  A more detailed swim report is found below.

I commend all spectators and their parents, firstly for attending the carnival and secondly for the level of support shown for our team on the day. It was good to see the boys kept up their enthusiasm throughout the day despite the very hot and humid conditions within the swimming complex.

Parental support is paramount to ensure that all students do attend school on the days when certain year levels are asked to act as supporters. Parent support is also needed to encourage the boys to turn up early or to stay around later to support other teams on Saturdays. The sense of school pride and spirit shown at these events certainly adds to the formation of a positive school culture. The benefit of which is immeasurable.

The Sports Office is continuing to plan and prepare for the up-coming rugby and football seasons. Sign-on forms have been distributed. A complete list of all players who have signed on for rugby and football will be posted on the web by this Friday. May I please ask parents to check the list and contact the Sports Office if a name does not appear or details are not correct.  The rugby and football training schedules are now confirmed for all teams from Year 7 – 12. All Year 5 and Year 6 rugby and football schedules will be finalised and published on the web and in the Villa Voice next week.

At present we are still looking for 10 Gold and 6 White football coaches. If you know of any suitable candidates, please inform the Sports Office. A complete list of all coaches and their allocated teams will be posted on the web by mid-next week.  As we all know, the College draws on the support of our parents, staff, old boys and outside friends to fill coaching positions. These people freely give of their time to serve our boys and to give them opportunities to participate and enjoy playing sport. I ask all parents to remember that these good people are here to assist and help your son.

Unwarranted nonsense regarding team selections does nothing but put a sour taste in everybody’s mouth. Believe me, in the big scheme of things, it is really not that important. Please be supporters of our coaches throughout the up-coming rugby and football season and from time to time it may be a good idea to approach the coach and thank them too.

The Villanova Sports Club are keen to sell as many mega- raffle tickets as possible over the next two rounds at cricket and volleyball. The funds raised go directly into improving the sports program. Tickets will be available from the canteens at both cricket and volleyball. I urge all coaches/managers to organise their teams and perhaps buy a ticket as a syndicate.

Finally, to everyone involved in sport this weekend. Play hard and enjoy!

Round 6 Fixtures – Saturday 10 March, AIC Cricket and Volleyball v St Peters and AFL v Iona

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

Mega-Raffle

The Villanova Sports Club is again running a Mega-raffle in 2018. First prize is $10 000 and only 200 tickets will be sold at $100 each. You could buy one ticket on your own or perhaps you could form a syndicate with friends. Over the next two rounds, all those associated with cricket and volleyball are encouraged to form a team syndicate for a chance to win. Please get behind the Sports Club and ensure you have your team syndicate mega-raffle tickets organised before end of season next week.  Team delegates should contact the Villanova College Finance Department to acquire tickets. All proceeds will benefit sport at Villanova.

AIC Cricket

I congratulate all AIC cricket players for their efforts over the weekend. Villanova had a dominant performance against Iona College last weekend winning nine from the 12 aggregate games played. This is a good result in our quest to win the cricket aggregate. Unfortunately, the First XI had their first loss of the season due to a solid Iona bowling attack. At present there are four schools on equal top place in the First XV ladder. It’s up for grabs, so if our boys want it, they’ll have to work hard for it over the next two rounds.

With all due respect to the opposition it is our aim to win all games against St Peter’s this weekend. Both Ashgrove and Villanova have an easier round this weekend before, what will be, a cracker of a round next week – Villanova against Ashgrove. Please do not take the opposition lightly this weekend as we did last year. A dropped game this weekend may be the difference in the end. All teams must do their bit. Good luck this weekend boys!

AIC Cricket Results v Iona

AIC Volleyball – Ms Barbara Dewis, AIC Volleyball Co-ordinator

Congratulations to the 7A and Seconds for ensuring did not have a clean sweep of the round.  As the Second VI remain the only undefeated team they will need to continue their intensity as we approach Round 6 against SPLC.  From all reports and results SPLC will be a very challenging opponent.  With two rounds to go players in all teams will need to dig deep into their repertoire of strategies and plays to finish strongly this season.

All coaches will need to focus on having their players forget last week’s result and to look towards dismantling the armour of SPLC.  It is always said ‘never underestimate your opposition’ therefore, being prepared to expect the unexpected will be vital as each team take to the court on the weekend.  Stay positive and focused when on court as well as be strong in mind and heart as you wear the green and gold of Villanova.

Volleyball photos for Years 7, 8 and 9 and coaches will be taken before games on Saturday – check website for times.  Players are asked to be in correct uniform.

Volleyball Team Photos – Round 6, Saturday 10 March

Photos will be taken this weekend for all Year 7, 8 and 9 volleyball teams. Please check website and below for the schedule and ensure that all players are on time and dressed in the full and correct volleyball uniform. I ask all players to wear plain white socks or the Villanova socks for the photo.

Please arrive 10 minutes before the schedule photo time. All photos will be taken at the front of Langlands Building.

Team                                                            Photo Time                                              Game Time

• 8 C                                                                 7:05am                                                       8:00am
• 7 C                                                                 7:15am                                                       8:00am
• 7 Gold                                                         7:25am                                                       8:00am
• 8 Gold                                                         8:00am                                                       9:00am
• 7 B                                                                 8:10am                                                       9:00am
• 8 B                                                                 8:20am                                                       9:00am
• 7 A                                                                 9:10am                                                       10:00am
• 8 A                                                                 9:20am                                                       10:00am
• 9 B                                                                 10:10am                                                    11:00am
• 9 C                                                                 10:20am                                                    11:00am

• 9 A 11:00am                                                    12 Noon

 AIC Volleyball Results v Iona 

AIC AFL – Mr Adam Fry, AFL Co-ordinator

What a weekend of footy with all four teams having fantastic wins.  Congratulation to all players on four hard fought victories. However, as we know one win doesn’t make a season and it is right back to business this week for a big weekend of fixtures before the finals. This weekend will see us up against four very strong sides from Iona, so it is imperative that all players are switched on and ready to go for training and games this Saturday.

Unfortunately, due to the recent rain our trainings have been limited but thanks must go to all families for notifying coaches if a player is unable to attend training or games. With only one fixture to go before the last round of finals three of our teams are still in for a shot of playing in a grand final. I encourage all families to arrive early or stay late to support their fellow Villanova mates and cheer on the green and gold.

AFL Photos

Team photos will be taken before the games this weekend as listed below. Please meet your coach in the usual area on time so that the photo can be taken leaving enough time for warm ups.

• 5B and 6B teams – 7.30am photo
• 5A and 6A teams – 8.30am photo

Thanks again for all your support and I look forward to seeing everyone at Yeronga on Saturday.

Results Round 5 (Technically Round 4)

5A Villanova 5.1.31 defeated Ashgrove 2.3.15

5B Villanova 4.11.35 defeat Ashgrove 4.3.27

6A Villanova 18.9.117 defeated Ashgrove 0.1.1

6B Villanova 13.9.87 defeated Ashgrove 2.0.12

Fixtures Round 6

No Dog Policy

A reminder to all that there is a NO DOG policy at all AIC sporting fixtures. There has been a concern from some of the venue coordinators, including Villanova Park that pet owners are ignoring the signs placed on the gates at each venue. All pet owners who ignore the signs will be asked to remove their pets from the venue immediately. This is also the case for all State Schools.

AIC Swim Report – Mrs Juanita Jacobs, AIC Swim Co-ordinator  

The final day of competition for the AIC swimming finally arrived on Monday, with the Villanova Swim Squad heading off to the AIC Championships.  There was a general sense of excitement amongst the boys as they prepared for their events. The boys have been training with our coaches from Langlands Pool since October last year.  For some of the boys it was their first introduction to the Villanova community and an opportunity to meet others in their grade and make friends.

We had a successful day finishing third in the Junior Competition and fifth in the Senior Competition.  Many of our boys had top three finishes.  Overall, there were 12 first places, nine second places and 17 third places.  The Year 6 relay team broke the AIC Record in both their freestyle and medley relays and finished first in their age group overall.

Congratulations to all the swimmers for their efforts on the day as well as all their time in the pool training.  This year we had a very large Year 5 and 6 squad, a group of dedicated boys who have worked hard to improve their skills and techniques.  Their enthusiasm for swimming and willingness to give of their time and efforts in the pool is really exciting to see.  It highlights how they have embraced the Villanova spirit, and share their gifts and talents with the community.  We are seeing a lot of talented swimmers moving through the grades, building depth to the squad and improving our competitiveness in the pool.  We look forward to continuing our relationship with the coaching staff at Brisbane Jets and Langlands Pool.

This week the selection trials for the Australian swimming teams to compete in the Commonwealth games have been taking place.  Many of you may have seen the reports and/or watched some of the events televised.  On behalf Villanova, I would like to congratulate Harrison Vig from Year 10.  He was one of the competitors in the trials swimming in the 100m S9 freestyle and backstroke events.  The training and determination to be prepared for that competition is amazing and Harry has achieved enormous success just to meet the qualifying times for these trials.   He has finished fourth in both the 100m freestyle and 100m backstroke.  I know I speak for all of us at the College when I say that you have already achieved so much Harry and we wish you all the success possible in the future.  Congratulations.

I have been very fortunate this year to have an Open team who have demonstrated great leadership and support to the staff and students.  They have been instrumental in the design of the new caps for the team and special caps for the Open team.  Although they may not realise it, offering assistance cooking the BBQ and assisting in the clean-up, accompanying the younger students up the hill in the mornings, or even doing a coffee run at Chandler for a caffeine deprived teacher are examples of visible service leadership which offer positive role modelling for the younger students.  Well done and thank you.

Finally, I would like to give a special vote of thanks to the people who have made the season possible. To Kerry, Guilly and Roarke thank you for your patience, kindness and sharing your knowledge and experience to the Villanova students.  The improvement in skill is visible.   A Year 5 student explained to me recently that he realised his breathing was incorrect and had to change part way through so Kerry wouldn’t be upset.  It is a sign of great respect and gratitude that the boys are so determined to do their best and prove themselves to the coaches.

To the parents who have volunteered with the Friday morning BBQ’s thank you for feeding the hungry hoards.  To all the parents who also share the early morning wake ups for training, I know the boys appreciate your support of them.

To Ms Moss, Mr O’Hare, Ms Dillon and Ms Henry thank you for your assistance with the squads, again, the season is not possible without you.

To Mr Stariha, Mr McLauchlan, Mr Kemp and Mrs Schofield in the Sports Office, thank you for all the preparation, planning and organisation.  It is appreciated by the team very much.

First Place: Tyler Clelland (x two), Cohen Stewart (x three), James Humphries, Will Vig (x two) Charlie Kerr (x two), Liam Maher and Adam Zanatta.

Second Place: Nick Humphries, Oliver Jacobs, Ben Lawrance, John Nolan, Tommy Lawrance, Harry Ryan, Nic Elsey, Will Vig and Cohen Stewart.

Third Place: Andy Vick (x two) Adam Zanatta, Nic Elsey, Luke Bukowski, Wade Wildin Powell, Max Blaser, Connor Moloney, Keegan O’Brien, Joel O’Reilly, Will Rogers (x two), Caden Griffiths (x two), Oliver Jacobs, Charlie Kerr and Jack Hewitt.

                    Picture Above – Open Swim Team and Swim Coordinator – Mrs Juanita Jacobs

 AIC Chess – Mrs Sally England, AIC Chess Co-ordinator

Welcome to Villanova Chess for 2018. Early in the term students were asked to volunteer their names to participate in 2018. The response was again overwhelming, confirming that chess is very popular. Over the last few weeks, 40 Senior and Middle School students started chess trials in earnest, with T10 being full each day at morning tea while the students battled against each other for a spot in the team. All in good spirit of course!

40 Junior School students have also added their names to the list of very enthusiastic chess players at Villanova.  Some are just playing for fun while others are wishing to make the team and are trialling for the Junior positions. Good luck to all the boys trying out.

Coaching lessons have started on Wednesday and Friday mornings, also in T10 from 7.30 – 8.20 with our coach Mr Charlie Tsai. It is imperative that the boys are here by 7.30. For this term the coaching sessions are opened to all players for both days.

The first trial night will be on Friday in Week 9 against St Laurence’s and information will be sent home shortly.   A second trial will be against St Patrick’s in Week 1 of Term 2. The competition will begin in Week 2 of Term 2 and will be held on a Friday night. Unless students are available to play on a Friday evening they cannot compete for the team, but they are most welcome to play every day at first break in the Tolle Lege Library to better their chess and make friends in the Chess Club.

Please contact either Mrs England or Mrs Warren (Juniors) if you have any concerns or queries sengland@vnc.qld.edu.au or mwarren@vnc.qld.edu.au.

The season is looking excellent in relation to the enthusiasm that is being shown at the moment, so we hope we can replicate our success of last year and maybe go one step further.

AIC Rugby/Football Coaches – Thank You

It is pleasing to report that nearly all coaching positions in both rugby and football have been filled.  However, we still require coaches for the 10 Gold and 6 White football teams. Coaches have been contacted via email regarding their allocated team placement. Once we get confirmation from coaches we will post the list of coaches on the web. At this early stage I thank the coaches for their willingness to be involved to enable our boys to play sport.

AIC Rugby/Football Referees – Needed

If you can assist with refereeing rugby or football matches, please contact the staff below. We are still in need of referees.

Rugby Year 5 – 12:  bmclauchlan@vnc.qld.edu.au

Football Year 5 – 12: akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au

AIC Rugby and Football Training/Trial Season Schedule

The complete Year 7 – 12 rugby and football training schedule has been published in the last two – three Villa View’s.  This schedule is posted on the College’s website under the AIC Rugby and AIC Football sections.

PLEASE NOTE:  Rugby and football trials will begin the week commencing Monday 19 March, that is, the very next week after cricket/volleyball. This is the last week of Term 1 before the Easter break.

AIC Year 5 and 6 Rugby and Football Training

Initial trial sessions will be conducted by the staff during sport for the next three weeks. These sessions are purely to get the boys engaged in relevant activities and for the staff to place the boys in squads for the first official training sessions which will take place from March 19.  All rugby and football training has been locked in for the season and is indicated below.

For trial purposes tomorrow, all boys are to bring along boots, mouthguard, an old jersey and shorts to wear. They will change into their football gear before the sessions begin and they will need to change back into their college sports uniform before going home.

All students who have signed up to play, will make a rugby or football team. No student will miss out.

Rugby Training (entire season at Langlands)

Football Training (Whinstanes)

AIC Rugby and Football Trial Games – Date Claimers

Monday 19 – 22 March: (Rugby and football training begins at Villanova Park for all Year 7 – 12 teams while Year 5 and Year 6 teams will train at the College

Saturday 24 March: AIC Year 5 – 12 rugby and football v SLC (full school trial)

Wednesday 28 March: First XV trial v Iona and First XI and Second XI trial v SPLC (after school)

Saturday 21 April AIC Year 5 – 12 rugby and football v SPC (full school trial)

First XI Football Trial v Kimberley College

Spectators are encouraged to attend the trial game above at Olympic Football Club next Wednesday 14 March. The first squad have had several solid trials so far this term producing winning results. The momentum gained in pre-season will hopefully spill into the regular season rounds. The team would appreciate as many spectators as possible on Wednesday night.

Representative Sport

Well done to the boys listed below on their inclusion into the Met East Swim Team. It is great to see we have lots of boys contesting and doing well at the representative level.

Congratulations and best wishes:  Nic Elsey, Andrew Vick, Caden Clelland, Jack Hewitt, Tyler Clelland, Charlie Kerr, Cohen Stewart, William Rogers, Will Vig, Harrison Vig, Charley Hegarty and Oliver Jacobs

Well done to Matthew Conway who has been selected in the Met East 16 – 19 years volleyball team that will compete in the State Championships at Boondall in May/June. A great achievement!

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

“Parenting with Technology in the Age of Social Media” – Monday 19 March 2018 at 6.30pm

On Monday 19 March, Villanova College will be hosting a parent education event to help support the community families with managing and regulating safe online behaviour. A common concern for parents is the lack of knowledge and understanding about the apps, social media sites and chatrooms our young people engage with as the “normalisation” of digital technology continues to evolve. This education event will provide parents with information, technical skills and advice to be more informed and involved with the social behaviours and potential threats that affect our children.

Task Force ARGOS will be presenting a session regarding the social site predators that target and groom our youth – and how to best safeguard children falling victim to the convincing behaviours and profiling these criminals utilise. Brett Lee has also been confirmed as our second speaker, covering social media apps and principles for parenting with social media (bio attached).

Please click the following link to RSVP for this FREE event – we are also seeking your feedback as to what information we should cover to make this event as relevant and informative as possible.

Link to register attendance

or register via QR code (attached).

Coles “Sports for Schools Vouchers’

If you are collecting these for the College, please be sure to return them by Fri 1 May. The collection box is located in the Junior School office.

Tuckshop Roster

MONDAY 12 MARCH

TUESDAY 13 MARCH

WEDNESDAY 14 MARCH

THURSDAY 15 MARCH

FRIDAY 16 MARCH

Library Roster

Monday

Bronagh Earthrowl

Leah Coogans

Tuesday

Susanna Greaves

Cristina Palacios

Wednesday

Donna Leahy

Thursday

Sue Mulligan

Maryanne Bingham

Friday

Gina Avolio

Gab Byrne

Villanova Carnival

Please find details for pre-bidding on Silent Auction items.

Please find recipes suitable for the Sweet Stall.

Villanova Sports Lunch

Villanova 70th Anniversary Gala Ball

– Tickets on sale 19 April

The Villanova College Parents and Friends Association invites parents of the college to come and celebrate this special milestone year at a gala night, designed just for you.

Dance the night away while enjoying the beautiful surrounds of Moda Events at Portside Wharf, with elevated waterfront views of the Brisbane River and city skyline.

The Early Bird ticket price for the night is $155 per person and includes a tantalising food and beverage package that is sure to delight. Featuring a range of sumptuous canapés on arrival, entrée and main course, a decadent selection for a delicious dessert bar and a prestige beverage package complete with a selection of fine wines and craft beers.

To book your table of 10, simply visit the Trybooking website via www.trybooking.com/354309  nominate your table captain and you’re set for a night to remember. Don’t have a table of 10? No problem! Just email the Ball Committee on villaball2018@optusnet.com.au and we will endeavor to seat you with other parents from your year level.

Tickets go on sale Thursday 19 April 2018. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out! Get your friends together and come celebrate the college’s 70th year in style.

Want to stay up-to-date on this special event? Join the Villanova College 70th Anniversary Ball Facebook group.

To stay up to date with the College events please proceed to the event calendar.

All Hallow’s Dance – Friday 16 March

All Hallows are holding a dance for years 7 & 8 on Friday 16^th March.  The venue is Loretto Hall, All Hallows School.  The dance will run from 7.00pm – 9.30pm and admission Will be $10.  Current School ID is required.

Villanova Players Theatre Company – 70 Years on Stage

Father Louis Hanrahan OSA, a founding member of staff (and later Rector) co- founded the Villanova Players, Brisbane’s first Catholic theatre group

In 2005 the Augustine Centre was opened with the main auditorium named the Hanrahan Theatre, in honour of Fr. Louis Hanrahan.

• The name Villanova Players came from the association with Villanova College at Whinstanes.
• The first public performance was on 11 October 1948 at All Saints Hall in Ann Street, with tickets costing two shillings.
• In the late 1950s, Fr Hanrahan handed the reins to Fr Paul Dempsey OSA. A few years later, when Fr Dempsey retired from the position, the formal link between the College and the Players ended.
• The Villanova Players have always attracted past Villanova students to their ranks along with nurturing the theatrical talents of people from all over Brisbane.
• The Villanova Players still produce four plays a year and are currently performing “Steel Magnolias” by Robert Harling (running until March 11, 2018) in the F.T. Barrell Auditorium at Yeronga State High School.