Villa View: Issue 14/19

Last week at the College Assembly I spoke to the students about learning the lessons from our Year 12 students. I recounted the story of speaking with two Year 12 students who were unhappy with their progress in Term 1 this year. The had set goals for each subject and fell short of their goals. When they were questioned as to why they thought they did not do well in their exams the two boys had a similar tale to tell. Both boys suffered from distractions and procrastination. In the classroom they were easily distracted by what was happening around them. At home when studying they would find every reason to put off the work until the last minute, and as we all know when we rush work, we often produce a low-quality finish.

The task I have set these two young men is to move their seating away from their mates in the classroom as a first step. The second step is to tackle their procrastination by breaking down all the assessment tasks into achievable pieces. When studying I have suggested removing all devices that are causing distractions and to set some rewards after completing a block of study.

For more information on beating procrastination please see the following website- https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2018/03/22/10-ways-to-beat-procrastination-and-get-things-done/#45a00e812902

BUILDING NEWS
At the moment there are two building projects on the go for the College, a new grandstand at Villanova Park and the Stage One – New Learning Centre at the Coorparoo campus.

The new grandstand at Villanova Park is beginning to take shape with the foundation work completed. The builder will soon commence the structure for the upper floor and place the steel supports for the roof. Once the roof is on the builder will begin all the internal works including the fit out of the changerooms and public amenities.

There has been a number of delays to the project including rain delays over the past two months, and the projected completion time is now towards the end of July 2019.

NEW LEARNING CENTRE
The ground works for the New Learning Centre have commenced in earnest and preparations are well underway for the builder to commence the foundation work over the coming month. Safety around the building site is paramount and is the responsibility of all members of our community. Particular attention needs to be applied when using either Seventh Avenue or Eighth Avenue for drop-off and pick-ups.

When trucks are entering and leaving the site extra care will be required and I ask all parents to please be vigilant around the construction site. The builder will have traffic control persons in all areas where trucks are entering and leaving sites.

MOTHERS’ EVENING
Last Friday evening over 360 Villanova College mothers gathered to enjoy an evening of great food, music and company. Despite the sudden storm that hit at around 7.30 pm, the enthusiasm of our guests was not to be dampened. Serving our mothers was an army of volunteer dads who gave up the night to ensure all guests were looked after on this special occasion.

Thank you to the Parents and Friends Association for their generosity in sponsoring this event.

We keep Mrs Jacqui Steendyk in our thoughts and prayers following the passing of her father, Allin Tudor,  in late April.

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

God Bless

Mr Mark Stower, Principal

WRITE THAT ESSAY COMPETITION
Congratulations to Reuben Wagels (Year 5) and William Makridakis (Year 7) who were the inaugural winners of Villanova’s Write that Essay competition. The boys explored the topic of St Augustine and their winning sentences were selected by Mr Stower. The fortnightly competition was launched to celebrate and recognise Villanova’s talented writers and will continue throughout the term. Congratulations also to Nikolas Katakis, Alex Hulme and Harris Killips who were shortlisted for their work.

The winning entries were:

Reuben Wagels (Year 5)
Saint Augustine of Hippo, who did not start acting like a Christian until he was eighteen, was very kind and caring and believed that the grace of Christ was indispensable to human freedom.

William Makridakis (Year 7)
The traits and intellect of St Augustine, not only raised the number of Christian followers, but formed Christianity today as we know it.

The shortlisted entries were:

Nikolas Katakis (Year 6)
Saint Augustine, troubled as a child, is a great example of someone who has found their way to the lord.

Alex Hulme (Year 8)
St Augustine, who began his life tempestuously, transformed his life to become a well-regarded figurehead in the history of Villanova and the Church.

Harris Killips (Year 9)
St Augustine, once a child similar to us whom would grow tall, now a role model at Villanova College to us all.

NAPLAN – National Assessment Program (Literacy and Numeracy) has been part of the Year 5 focus this week in the Junior School.  With weeks of small preparation tasks under their belts, our students have completed their best work under formal exam conditions.  It is fair to say that when I checked each classroom, there were “parachute” treats on desks (“in case of emergency please open”), shoes off, belts over chairs and ties around foreheads (for bravado I believe).  While it is fair to say that yes, data gives us an insight into student ability and progress over the long term, I believe our staff gave it a polish that reassured the boys that life goes on beyond NAPLAN too.  Many thanks to the parents who fed, nurtured and supported their sons over the three days of exams.  My gratitude goes to the teachers and support teams who went above and beyond to see the tests were conducted according to strict guidelines in a boy friendly environment.

Homework is being discussed amongst staff at present.  The inclusion of One Note and Google Docs now means there is plenty of resources available to help complete work tasks and prepare for assessment at home.  Particularly helpful if boys are away or involved in co-curricular events like our cross-country runners on Monday, these online resources serve as means for ensuring all boys can achieve their Term 2 goals.

Our National Curriculum is busy, and the students have learning achievements different to the days when Steve Rouhliadeff walked through the gates of Karrinyup Primary School.  So, what can parents do to help?  Stay aware of College diary notes – staff will encourage boys to discuss main ideas and work on some examples between lessons each week.  Check out the Class One Note pages or access Google Docs – if you read and learn a little then your questions or conversations could spark more investment by your son to develop his understanding.  It does take time and commitment for the boys to reach their potential – and between school and home, we can help the boys work on organisation, preparation, collaboration and communication.

21st century skills – the very things our employers look for – can be learnt from now.  Balance is everything, don’t get me wrong.  There is always time for sport, music, tv, a movie or family outing.  Let’s plan our time as families so that homework gets a “look in” on a regular basis.  A strong work ethic and flexible approach to schoolwork means the world when students walk into a classroom five days a week.

Mission Day on Friday 24 May is fast approaching, and your sons will bring home a red candle bag on Monday of Week 5.  This bag will help you understand what our College Mission Day is all about.  As a Catholic Community, we work in solidarity with families in the Philippines.  People like you and I, with children, who want to make positive changes with education, employment and self-sufficiency.  Villanova College works regularly to raise money that is taken over with Senior School students and staff in September every second year, as well as with the AFAS Seniors (staff, parents and Old Boys) who make the pilgrimage every other December.

The red candle is meant to be lit as a family next week – knowing that a small business in the Philippines that makes them, started with our donations and small business loans.  We remember our fortunes and show gratitude to each other – for all our talents and gifts that we share.  We pray together, for peace and social justice in our world.  Mission Day will mean that the students work in class as per normal for Periods 1-3.  Year 5 students have an Amazing Race and Year 6 students will have the Invictus Games – both groups with Senior Students as big brothers, searching for truth together around the College.  Food stalls and games/activities will be run by Middle School men and this is where our Junior School boys may use pre-purchased tickets (class teachers are taking money this week in class – so tickets can be bundled early) to pay for things.  Of course, boys may bring their own lunchbox and enjoy the festivities for free.  It’s time for our College Spirit to shine!

If you follow the Junior School on Instagram, you would have seen our artistic progress with St Thomas of Villanova, in preparation for the whole College Mass next Thursday.  Boys and staff have been invited to dip their thumbs in paint and create a community canvas.  My heartfelt appreciation goes to Mrs Nichole Rouhliadeff, Mr Roland Camilleri, Ms Vanessa Briggs and Mrs Janet Akenson for their tireless efforts behind the scenes.  This beautiful piece of work shows us that anyone can paint – and that includes me – and what joy can come out of spending a few minutes in solidarity.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

As you would be aware, our Year 7 and Year 9 students sat their NAPLAN tests this week. While it feels like yesterday for some of us, this year marked the twelfth year that students across the country have sat these tests. 

The testing commenced on Tuesday morning and NAPLAN quickly (and briefly) became the number one trending issue in the “Twitter-sphere”. Reports emerged about the online version of NAPLAN not working, conversations began about the merits of the overall tests, and most news outlets tweeted about the stress and anxiety that students were experiencing as a result of NAPLAN. 

From what I have gleaned, opinions were somewhat divided about the testing and its impact on the stress levels of students. Some advocated for its importance in readying students for the rigorous testing requirements of senior schooling and the new ATAR system. Others voiced concerns about the pressure that some schools and/or parents have placed on students to achieve high results. 

As we know, and will all have experienced, stress is caused by a feeling of pressure, either internally or externally applied. For adults, this might be a daily feeling, one that over time we have developed skills to manage. We also carry the benefit of ‘perspective and context’ into these situations and they typically help us find a balanced mindset. 

For our young people, we need to be mindful of their developmental immaturity when it comes to these stress-management skills. Commenting on NAPLAN, Dr Micah Goldwater from Sydney University writes, “There is a lot of evidence from cognitive psychology and neuroscience that stress and anxiety reduces working memory capacity.” He went on to say that, “Putting all of this together, and again with the high stakes nature of these exams, suggests that a lot of kids are going to do much worse on these exams than they would under different conditions.” Dr Rachel Wilson, also from Sydney University, surmised the emerging culture of NAPLAN claiming it’s sending, “the wrong messages to students – that it’s all about performance and competition – and frustrates our teachers.”

Having walked with Villanova boys through all twelve tears of NAPLAN, I must say I tend to share Dr Wilson’s view. Before the days of MySchool-type websites and league tables, NAPLAN (for the most part) was a convenient tool for providing ‘moment-in-time’ feedback to students, parents and teachers. It gave a snapshot to key stakeholders about where students were at with foundational literacy and numeracy understanding and skills. It sat comfortably amongst the other forms of feedback and reporting that included teacher observations and comments, school-based assessment, and other aptitude activities and testing. 

However, with NAPLAN here to stay, and with formal testing becoming an ever-increasing part of the educational landscape, as parents and teachers we need to be explicitly teaching our young people the techniques to regulate feelings of stress and anxiety brought on by testing. We need to be tempering the expectations we place on performance and provide assurance and perspective around test results – and not just in regards to NAPLAN either. 

Thankfully, whilst all this debate was unfolding on Tuesday morning, the classrooms of Villanova College were mostly being filled with relaxed, prepared and composed Year 7 and Year 9 boys. Whilst I’m sure there were a few butterflies, I was exceptionally proud of the way our boys tackled this week’s tests. 

One Year 9 student, perhaps well beyond his years, best captured my thoughts on NAPLAN when I asked him how he went. He simply responded, “I did my best, and it will be what it will be.” 

All the best for the week ahead.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

FIVE IMPORTANT QUALITIES ALL MEN SHOULD HAVE
One of underpinning pillars of the Senior School Formation Program is inculcating our students with the virtues and values that will see them develop into fine young men. On the journey to becoming the Villa Man, we provide opportunities for our senior school students to acquire social and emotional learning (SEL) skills to nurture their inner selves. The Good Men Project Website speaks of the importance of our gateway value of interiority in the following five qualities that all men should have. They are:

1. When You Give Your Word, Keep It: Your word is your bond; ensure that you always follow through.
2. Maintain Your Integrity: Having a strong moral compass is fundamental.
3. Be Purpose Driven: If you have not found ‘your thing’, keep searching; understanding your goals and mission as a man is essential in finding success, happiness and fulfillment.
4. Check Your Emotions: (not the same as hiding or bottling up emotions) Blasting the world and blaming others for your own problems demonstrates a lack of responsibility.
5. Develop Self-Awareness: Allows you to have a clear perception and insight into your own personality.

ROUND 3 HERITAGE ROUND V IONA COLLEGE
Congratulations to all Senior School chess, football and rugby players for a successful round last week against Padua College. Thank you to those students who followed the expectations regarding wearing their Academic Uniform and another reminder to those students who didn’t to address this moving forward.

This Saturday marks the heritage round versus Iona College. Given that it has also been designated as the Old Boys Day, there is sure to be a wonderful atmosphere at Villanova Park. The Cor Unum Spirit Committee has invested considerable energy throughout this week to build up the significance of this event in the sporting calendar, culminating in Friday’s spirit rally at lunch time. I remind all students that the focus of our attention needs to be directed towards our own performance and the positive support of our players. If there is one weekend this term that you can prioritise your time to attend and support your Villanova brothers, this is the one.

SHAVE FOR A CURE
Last Friday was a memorable day in the history of the Villanova College Senior School. Motivated by the inspirational leadership of College Vice Captain Will Barwick, students of Year 11 and 12 embraced the challenge of making the inaugural World’s Greatest Shave event at Villanova a remarkable success. I would like to share with you an excerpt of Will’s address at the College Assembly:

This morning 30 brave young gentlemen shaved their heads to raise awareness for the Leukaemia Foundation through participating in the World’s Greatest Shave. Early on in our campaign, we set the goal that if we raised $5000, Mr Levander would shave his head and I am stoked to announce that we have well exceeded that goal. Please join with me in welcoming Mr Levander along with Matthew Rolls to the stage to witness their epic transformations.

It is my great pleasure to reveal to you that in total, we have raised an incredible $14,820. I commend each and every one of you for getting involved and for your generous donations. Raising over $10,000 means that we have raised enough to provide emotional support to help an astounding 300 families overcome the initial shock and stress of being diagnosed with blood cancer.

In particular I would like to recognise Sean Kearns for raising $1,174, Murphy Woodger for raising $1,003, Rhys Nevis for raising $851 and Lachlan Galbraith for raising $786.  Your donations will undoubtedly go towards an extremely deserving cause. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the hairdressers and barbers who volunteered their time and equipment this morning to aid us in the shave. In particular, Tigerlamb Coorparoo, Stones Corner Barber Shop, Old Mate’s Barber and Grooming, Tony’s Chop Shop Barber Shop in Coorparoo Square as well as Desiree Nevis. I am so proud to belong to a College that supports initiatives such as this and am so humbled that we have managed to raise such a monumental amount in our first time being involved in this campaign and I can’t wait to see where this will lead to in the future.

“Non nobis solum nati sumus. (Not for ourselves alone are we born.)” – Marcus Tullius Cicero

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

MISSION WEEK, MAY 20 – 24 2019
“The real monuments are to be found in the minds and hearts of the thousands of students who have passed through these halls of truth and love, of honour and friendship.” (Fr Ben O’Donnell OSA – first Rector)

The aim of Mission Week, culminating on Mission Day on Friday May 24, is to create a space in the calendar where students and staff unite to create a series of events and activities which celebrate our own community whilst raising funds for our sister schools in the Philippines (through AFAS).

Mission Week was first introduced by Student Council in 1975 as a way of focusing on the mission of the College, namely to produce fine young men who make a difference in the world. For example, in 1976, over $2000 was raised for a Freedom from Hunger campaign by stretching one cent coins end on end for 3.5 km. At the same time, the aim of the day is for students to learn in a hands-on way about some of the underlying reasons for injustice and inequality in society. This commitment to social justice education is a hallmark of Augustinian schools around the world.

Highlights of the week include:

Red Candle Bags
You should have received your red candle bag by dinner time on Monday May 20. Please let me know if you have not received your red candle and prayer ritual. Lighting the red candle at dinner time, and saying the special prayer, is a simple way to join in solidarity with Mission Week, and with the Filipinos who make the red candles in Cebu.

Mass of St Thomas of Villanova and Unveiling of St Thomas Finger-Painting
All family members are welcome to attend the community Mass on Thursday May 23^rd at 10.30 am in Goold Hall. A highlight will be the public unveiling of the new painting of St Thomas of Villanova to which each Junior School student has added his thumb print. When this painting is hung alongside similar paintings of Saints Augustine and Monica in the new Junior School, it will be as if the very DNA of our students is part of the fabric of the new building. Staff members Nichole Rouhliadeff, Vanessa Briggs and Roland Camilleri have generously guided the students in a project which has created a wonderful buzz within Junior School.

Staff v. Student Events
Starting with Family Feud on assembly tomorrow, there is a series of staff – student challenges culminating in the debate and netball match on Mission Day. Always hotly contested, the students are hoping to win back the Student Council Cup for the first time in 176 years.

Mission Day itself will feature amazing and home-cooked food which reflects the passion, diversity and creativity within our community. The Year 7 “Eat Street” has 47 stalls offering food and displays from 24 different nationalities rippling through the bloodstream of that cohort. Nearby will be a wonderful “Filipino World” stall showing us how to feast Filipino-style. Many of the favourites return, from teacher dunker to thick shakes; from lob-a-choc to the surf rider and Battle of the Bands (or “Quadfest”). New activities are being offered, like the 500M rowing challenge (record is 1:27 from 2011), an art installation and speed chess.

Meal Deal
There is an unbeatable meal deal: sausage sizzle or Aussie burger + soft drink/ drink + chocolate bar all for $5.

Buying AFAS Tickets
All the currency on the day is AFAS tickets. Please encourage your son to buy some AFAS tickets so that he can enjoy the day. These go on sale next week. Many of the activities or foods are $1 or $2 in “AFAS money.” The meal deal is $5 in AFAS money. All proceeds go to AFAS. The students and staff who deliver these funds in the Spring holiday have the huge privilege of seeing the leverage our donation exerts for families not so different from Villa families.

Please note: There will be a free dress day on Mission Day and a gold coin donation for AFAS is required. As so much of the food on Mission Day is prepared and cooked by the Tuckshop, the Tuckshop will be closed on Mission Day.

MOTHER’S DAY STALL
The Mothers’ day stall in 2019 was the best ever. The teamwork between YAYM and staff members Kath Underhill, Ellen King, Rosie Norfolk, Helen Palmer and JoAnne Kieseker was outstanding. Demand accelerated as the end of the week approached, and the gifts were flying out the door as soon as wrapped. Over $1,100 has been made. Half will go to breast cancer research, and the other half to an adult education scheme in Bacolod (Philippines) entirely funded by AFAS. But even more important, is the community-building dimension. So many of the students took real pleasure in choosing a gift for mum: a gift that could somehow express the sense of gratitude and appreciation to the most important educator of all.

Mr John Holroyd, Dean of Mission and Identity

Huge congratulations go out to the entire cross country squad from Year 5 – Year 12 including all coaches and managers for a sensational performance at the AIC Cross Country Championships on Monday at Curlew Park. Villanova placed fifth overall in the 12 years – Open aggregate and third overall in the Year 5 and Year 6 aggregate. Villanova also won the 14 years age Championship and we had a number of runners who placed on the day. Well done to all involved. A full report by our Cross Country Coordinator, Mr Brian Pascoe appears below.

Last weekend Villanova played Round 2 of the AIC chess, rugby and football season against Padua College. I must say I was very pleased with the overall performance displayed by our players. In terms of results, the chess boys won all games v Padua. This is a rare occurrence and I congratulate the boys involved for playing at their best. The competition was tough in rugby and football. Both Colleges enjoyed success throughout the day as the aggregate results were equally shared. Not a bad outcome to see both Colleges playing competitively and sharing the success.

As with all sports, some teams are doing it tougher than others, and some teams are having more success than others, but I believe most boys are out there on the paddock giving it their all for the College and it’s good to see. It is also pleasing to report that the First chess, rugby and football teams all won their games in sensational fashion last week . Well done to all!

The atmosphere at Villanova Park on the weekend was fantastic. The number of supporters who made the effort to stay was greatly appreciated and it certainly lifted the boys out in the middle. The AIC footy and rugby season is a special time where our boys really seem to enjoy the time spent with their mates outdoors playing sport. The College community does gain much satisfaction seeing its students wearing their uniforms with pride, chanting the College war cry, forming ‘run-on’ tunnels for each other and representing our school well both on and off the paddock. This all aids in the development of a positive school culture which has a flow on effect throughout the entire College.

Rugby and football training at Villanova Park for most teams from Year 7 – Year 12 seems to be working well. Having all teams train in one safe location side by side helps the coaches to work with each other and to communicate more effectively. Training at Villa Park allows our skills directors to float among year levels to ensure support is given to coaches where needed. Unfortunately, there is the usual traffic congestion leaving the Park after training. Perhaps parents may consider parking on the western side of the Park behind what was the Cor Unum Centre. Not as many park in this area. When exiting from this side you simply use the bottom gate which is left open and the line-up is not nearly as long as the Main entrance/exit.

I take this opportunity to thank those who have supported the College’s decision for its students to wear full academic uniform when staying behind to support other teams.  Although there may be a difference of opinion, there is no doubt our supporters on the weekend looked good and represented our College well on the weekend. Well done boys!

This weekend marks Round 3 of AIC chess, rugby and football against Iona College. May I please ask all families to ensure that they allow enough time to travel so that the boys are present at least 30 minutes before kick-off. Arriving early is paramount to ensuring our boys are prepared and ready to go when the whistle blows.

I ask all players to dig deep this weekend and give their very best. Best wishes to all involved!

AIC Chess, Rugby and Football Fixtures, Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May – Times and Venues
All times and venues for this weekend’s fixtures against Iona College (plus supplementary games) are available on the College’s website.

AIC CROSS COUNTRY REPORT
By Mr Brian Pascoe, Cross Country Co-ordinator

In cross country we believe we live Villanova’s Gateway Values that guide the Augustinian ethos of the College:

• Restless search for Truth
• A sense of Interiority (the behaviour you accept is the behaviour that defines you)
• A sense of Community

Cross country training allows quiet consideration with your own thoughts. The training methods such as fartlek and threshold sessions are not pleasant if completed properly. However, learning to accept the distress and relish the discomfort that promotes growth and improvement is invaluable for developing ‘Augustinian’ men of character. It helps shape a young man into the best version of himself.

This has been a strong ongoing tradition at Villanova and was first introduced to me by Fr Laurie Mooney College Rector in 1984 when as a new Grade 8 student I joined his Friday afternoon running group. This was also the vocation lived by Tony MacPherson Villa’s Cross-Country coach for two decades 1984 – 2004. This is also the mantra adopted by current coach David Barton (’09) who challenges the Running Wildcats squad to live the famous words attributed to by St Augustine,

‘Perseverance, God’s greatest gift, never give up!’. St Augustine

I challenge students who have not previously participated in cross country to have a go in the future and find out how great you could be!

The good news is the Augustinian values are still evident within the cross-country squad and being lived by The Running Wildcats.

Jayden Bryant an integral and much-loved member of the Open squad was invited to read the Kokoda Prayer used by the Running Wildcats to the squad prior to the AIC Championships. The Kokoda Prayer was penned by Mr Adrian Hellwig and captures and links the essence of Cross-Country Running and Villanova’s Augustinian Values:

We are surrounded by those who went before and those yet to come – so great a cloud of witnesses.
Let us therefore lay aside every weight, and care which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is before us.
We run to honour the students and community members of yesteryear, we run to help the youth who need us today. We run the race that God has set and with his help we, and all our mates, will be as they were: “Equal to the task.’

The improvement demonstrated by so many runners throughout the season has been a privilege to witness.

Villanova gained a credible fifth place at the AIC Championships and won the Premiership for the Under 14 age group. Villanova came third overall in the Year 5 and Year 6 division. These are great results and were a fair reflection of the performance of the Running Wildcats on Championship day.

Notable performers on AIC Championship Day include:
Year 5:  Zachariah Moir – 2nd place, Charles Farmer – 13th place, William White – 19th place, Ronan McMahon – 20th place and Jack Fidge – 21st place
Year 6:  Patrick Holmes – 9th place, Michael Hegarty – 14th place and Mitch Milward – 15th place
Under 12: Henry Oberhardt – 17th place, Max Carson – 19th place and Noah Macquet – 24th place
Under 13: Ben Hermiston Cohen Stewart – 1st place, Kyan Simpson – 19th place and Isaac Greenwood – 20th place
Under 14: Cohen Stewart – 1st place, Mitchell Rieck – 2nd place, Jakob Beaverstock – 17th place, Luke Schaumburg 18th place, Caden Griffiths – 30th place and Charlie Corrigan 38th place
Under 15: Jacob Dimmick – 3rd, Michael Anderson – 22nd place and Luke Pascoe 27th place
Under 16: Lucas Boylan 12th place, Jake Merrett – 14th place, Oliver Rae – 15th place and Hamish Muir – 20th place
Open: Jaxon Paterson-Wright – 7th place, Jake Merrett – 16th place and Sam Stenson – 30th place

A summary of age group places:
Year 5:  Third place
Year 6:  Fifth place
Under 12:  Seventh place
Under 13:  Fifth place
Under 14:  First place
Under 15:  Fifth place
Under 16:  Sixth place
Open:  Seventh place

I would like to thank fellow coaches and managers for the dedication and enthusiasm they brought to the cross-country program again this year. The continuing growing numbers of runners is a direct reflection of the passion the coaches have for running, and their desire to see young men develop into better versions of themselves.

• Junior School – Mr Matthew Conlan (teacher), Miss Amy Roberts (teacher) and Mr Tom Lonergan (external coach)
• Middle and Senior School – Mr Brian Pascoe (teacher), Mr Jordan Roache (teacher) and Mr David Barton (’09 and external Coach)

Congratulations to all runners on an excellent season.

Under 14 Cross-Country Team – Age Champions AIC Cross-Country, 2019

Zac Moir 2nd place – Year 5 division

Mitchel Rieck 2nd place and Cohen Stewart 1st place in the 14 years division

Jacob Dimmick 3rd place in the 15 years division

Luke Berridge and Sam Stenson receiving the 14 years Age Champion Trophy on behalf of the team

AIC TRIMESTER 3 – Rugby League, Tennis (managers), Basketball Coaches Needed!
Currently the College is seeking coaches and managers of the abovementioned sports for the up-coming AIC Trimester 3 program. Trials will begin during the last week of this term. The season will be conducted during term 3 as per the College calendar.

If you are keen to assist the College by taking on a role of coach or manager, please email the respective people below.

• Basketball Coach – Email Mr Sean O’Neill: soneill@vnc.qld.edu.au
• Tennis Manager – Email Mr Craig Stariha: cstariha@vnc.qld.edu.au
• Rugby League Coach – Email Mr Blake McLauchlan: bmclauchlan@vnc.qld.edu.au

Trimester 3 Sign-ons – Rugby League, Tennis, Basketball and Track and Field
The Sports Office plans to release the Trimester 3 Sign-on Forms for those wishing to play AIC Rugby League, Tennis, Basketball and Track and Field. All students will be issued with a hard copy of the Trimester 3 Sign-on Form within their pastoral lesson next Monday. A copy of this sign-on form is also found on the College’s website in the ‘Locker Room’ section.

Please Note:

Basketball

• Year 5 and Year 6 basketball will now be played on Friday afternoons (not Saturday as was planned). Year 5 and Year 6 students can play basketball on Friday as well as either tennis or rugby league on Saturday
• Year 7 – Year 12 students who will play basketball on Saturday cannot play tennis or rugby league as they are played at the same time
• There will be approximately four teams per year level

Tennis

• Year 5 – Year 12 students will play tennis on Saturday mornings. These students cannot play rugby league or Year 7 – Year 12 basketball as they are played at the same time.
• There will be two teams per year level

Rugby League

• Students can only play AIC rugby league if they have played AIC rugby union or AIC football. Rugby league coaches will be asked to view the last two rounds of rugby union to commence the trial process. This will not determine the teams as some may be playing AIC football but will give the coaches a guide as to the quality of players we have as the majority will be playing rugby.
• There will only be one team per year level in rugby league. The teams will be – Year 5, Year 6, Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, First Rugby League (combined Year 11 and Year 12 team), probably around 20 players per age group
• Rugby league players cannot play Year 7 – Year 12 basketball or tennis

Track and Field

• Students can participate in any other sport as well as Track and Field. Track and Field training will commence halfway through Term 3

COLLEGE WEB-SITE – SPORT PAGE
The weekly reports indicate that many people are using the College website each week to gain access to important information pertaining to Villa Sport. Please continue to use this site as information regarding draws, team lists, by-laws, important notes/dates etc. are posted and updated regularly. The use of the Villanova App is also a must.

SPORTS CLUB – CANTEEN ROSTER
On behalf of the Sports Club we would like to thank all those who have been kind enough to assist in the canteens. The assistance has been fantastic. This weekend Villanova will host all the Year 9 – Year 12 games at Villanova Park as well as many other supplementary games. Please see canteen roster below.

AIC RUGBY
By AIC Rugby Co-ordinator, Mr Blake McLauchlan

Villanova had a pleasing weekend of results against Padua College. Overall, we had a total of 16 wins and nine losses. The First XV managed to secure their second win for the 2019 season. Playing in front of an enthusiastic crowd on Charlie Fisher Oval, the boys stood up to the Padua boys and played with grit, hunger and determination. Congratulations to our Year 5 and Year 8 boys for taking out wins across the entire year level. It is fantastic to see our Year 5 boys improving each week. They are enthusiastic and starting to develop some great combinations on the field. This weekend we come up against Iona College for the annual Old Boys Round. Our Year 9 to Opens are playing at Villanova Park this weekend which is sure to generate an enormous amount of atmosphere around the park.

Just a reminder to all parents that you are not to approach the coach regarding team selections on game day or attempt to contact the coach via social media. The coaches’ role is to prepare their team as best as possible on game day and discussions regarding team selections can hinder their preparations. If you do have a concern regarding team selections, please email the coach directly.  Email addresses can be found on the College website.

Just a reminder to all boys to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled kick off time to allow for sufficient pre-game preparation.

Best wishes to all teams for Round 3 versus Iona College.

AIC Rugby Results v Padua College

AIC FOOTBALL
By AIC Football Co-ordinator, Mr Anthony Kemp

Last weekend’s results against Padua College were consistent across each of the year levels. Villanova dominated Padua in the Opens, Year 9, Year 8 and Year 6 competitions, while Padua were successful in the Year 10, Year 7 and Year 5 competitions. Overall Villanova came away with 18 wins, two draws and 13 losses and were slightly ahead in the aggregate 6-1-5. Well done to all teams on your efforts to date at training and during matches.

The First XI boys did a tremendous job in getting their second win of the season in a very physical and tiring game, winning 3-0. The team would like to thank all supporters who created a great atmosphere for the First XI on the weekend and we encourage all supporters to stay around and watch the top of the table clash this week with rivals Iona College.

There has been a number of coaches who have expressed their concern at players being absent from training without being given the courtesy of a message to inform them about the absence.  This can be very frustrating when team numbers are down, and our coaches are trying to develop combinations. All our coaches can be contacted by checking the Football page in the Locker Room and as much notice as possible is preferable, whether it’s an injury, family function or transport difficulties.

The next round of football sees Villanova take on Iona College. Please ensure that all parents and players check the schedule and playing times carefully this week and are at the game 30 minutes prior to kick off. Good luck to all teams in chasing that victory this weekend!

AIC Football Results v Padua College

AIC CHESS
by Mrs Mylan Warren, AIC Chess Co-ordinator

What a fantastic start to the chess season again this year as Round 2 against Padua saw another win to Villanova. It was a great afternoon with wins to all teams. Well done to all players. Please note that practice still continues every Morning Tea in T10. This week is another home game. Good luck to all teams against Iona on Friday.

ANNUAL SPORTS LUNCH – ONLY TWO WEEKS TO GO!
Yes, that’s right folks it is just two short weeks until the best Sports Lunch in town. If you haven’t already purchased your tickets to the event at The Greek Club on Friday May 31 then don’t delay and buy today!

The Villanova College Sports Club Lunch will be an absolute cracker and is shaping up as the biggest yet so don’t miss out!

Great speakers, great raffles, great auctions and plenty of fun and the really good news is………..

EARLY BIRD PRICING HAS BEEN EXTENDED! – STILL $150 PER TICKET

CLICK ON THE LINK ON THE ATTACHED FLYER TO BOOK TICKETS TO THE BEST GIG IN TOWN

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

WIENEKE BURSARY COMPETITION
This is a general reminder that entries for the Wieneke Bursary competition CLOSE TOMORROW, Friday May 17.  Please ensure entries are dropped to the Music Office so that the heats may be scheduled over the weekend.

All heats for the Bursary will be occurring during the day next week.  We hope to have these completed as early as possible to allow preparation time for the finals. I am really looking forward to hearing all our fine young musicians and the music they have been preparing!

SYDNEY TOUR INFORMATION
Our most recent tour rehearsal was very productive; thank you to all the students who came and participated in such a focussed manner.  For those who were unable to join us, we received three new pieces to prepare.  Please make sure you drop by the Music Office to collect this music as soon as possible.

The final statement for tour fees has been distributed this week.  Should you have any questions or concerns regarding this, please do not hesitate to contact me via the Music Office.  Please make these payments through Flexischools.

Our Sydney Tour ensemble next meets on Tuesday May 21 from 3.15 – 4.45pm on stage in the Hanrahan Theatre.  We are well on the road to producing a fine show for our audiences during the festival!

COLLECTION OF INSTRUMENTS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
We have had a number of parents enter the Augustine Centre during the school day to collect their son’s instrument and take it home for storage.  These parents are entering the building via our Level 1 door; the entry most accessible to the car park near the Uniform Shop and Maintenance units.  Whilst I appreciate the wonderful support these parents are affording their son, there have been concerns raised regarding Child Protection and Workplace Health and Safety.

Please understand that ALL visitors to the College are required to sign-in via College reception.  Adults are not to be on campus or within school buildings during the day unless this process is completed.  If you are planning to arrive and collect your son’s instrument from the Augustine Centre, please make sure you contact the Music Office on 3394 5691 to notify us of your arrival.  Enter the Augustine Centre via the Music Office entry and report to our Music Secretary (Monday – Sandra Magnus; Tuesday to Friday – Alison Schrauf) and we will escort you down to collect your son’s instrument.  Alternatively, please have your son collect the instrument at the end of the school day.

I thank you all for assisting us in this very important security and safety measure.

BRISBANE GRAMMAR SCHOOL UPPER-INTERMEDIATE STRINGS WORKSHOP
We will have five students represent Villanova College at the upcoming BGS Upper-Intermediate Strings Workshop over the next two weeks.  The students will travel to the Grammar School to participate in three workshop afternoons, followed by a concert for family and friends on Thursday May 23 in the Great Hall.

Congratulations and thanks to the students who have accepted this opportunity, and Ms Bastos for organising this opportunity for the students.  The concert commences at 6.30pm at BGS on Thursday May 23 – I strongly suggest you get along to enjoy the music.

ST MARTIN’S SUNDAY FUNDAY
Our Big Band and Irish Ensemble have been invited to perform at the St Martin’s Carina Sunday Funday on Sunday May 26.  The students will be performing between 11am and 12noon near the refreshment area.  Information has been distributed to families and students involved.

We hope you can come along to support our students and members of our broader community.

ENTERTAINMENT BOOKS 2019
The Entertainment Book drive for 2019 in our Junior School has concluded with all Year 5 students requiring to return all Entertainment Books handed to them before the Easter Holidays.  If your son is yet to return his, please ensure this comes back to the Music Office as a matter of urgency.

Please note – Entertainment Books are still available for purchase through the Music Office and Digital Memberships and Books can be purchased through the link below.

If you have purchased books through the drive, please collect your books from the Music Office.  If you require clarification around collection of your Entertainment Books, please contact Mrs Schrauf in the Music Office on 3394 5691.

Thank you all very much for your continued support of this initiative.  We look forward to being one of Entertainments biggest contributors again!

DATE CLAIMERS – Term 2
As is tradition, we look forward to the fantastic events we have planned in the near future:

Thank you all for your continued support of Villanova Music.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

OUTSIDE HOURS SCHOOL CARE
Thank you to our Years 5 – 7 families who completed the survey late last term regarding the feasibility of Villanova introducing an Outside Hours School Care service at the College. Initial feedback has indicated that parents would support this service. The College is now investigating the operational requirements of providing such a service (specifically space allocation and regulatory details) in its discussions with service providers. We will keep parents updated throughout the process and when a final decision will be communicated.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST – VILLANOVA COLLEGE BOARD
Villanova College, established in 1948, is part of Australia’s Augustinian community and provides accessible high-quality education to boys from Year 5 to 12.  The College is incorporated as a company Limited by Guarantee and governed by a Board of Directors.

Villanova is seeking interest from people willing to contribute to the ongoing development of our College and Catholic education in the Augustinian Tradition by investing their time and skills as a Director on the Board or Member of one of the Board’s Committees.  The position is honorary and voluntary, and does not carry any remuneration.

The Boards draw on the Expression of Interest Register to fill all vacancies as and when they occur.  The Board is presently seeking interest from people committed to Catholic education and who possess the necessary skills and experience in areas such as:

• Education
• Finance / Accounting
• Commercial / Business
• Marketing
• Law
• Property, Building, Project Management or related disciplines
• Human Resources
• Other relevant discipline

If you wish to register your interest to be considered for future openings on the Board, please complete an Expression of Interest form via the College website.  Further information will be provided to interested persons at a Board Information evening to be held on Thursday 6 June.

Mr Peter Geraghty, Chairman Villanova College Board

WELCOME DR ASHLEIGH WRIGHT (College Psychologist)
I would like to introduce myself; I’ve recently joined the Villanova community as College Psychologist, replacing Mr Tass Sakellariou while he is on leave in Terms 2 and 3. Thank you to the College community for the warm welcome I have received.

A little bit about my background – I completed my Doctor of Clinical Psychology, and Bachelor of Psychological Science at the University of Queensland. My previous role was with the Child and Youth Mental Health Service, where I worked with young people experiencing a range of difficulties; including family conflict, social isolation, developmental difficulties, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, and school-related difficulties, such as anxiety about attending school, stress, and bullying.

My passion is in working collaboratively with children and adolescents, tapping into their unique wisdom, strengths and expertise. I believe school provides an excellent window of opportunity in which to do this. My doctoral thesis involved adapting a program aimed at improving body dissatisfaction in boys, which I piloted across multiple secondary schools in Brisbane with groups of young males.

My role at Villanova College will involve me supporting students across Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. I am very much looking forward to meeting the students, and becoming a part of the inspiring spirit of the community.

If you would like support, please come and have a chat so that we can decide together whether there is something we can work on. You can either come to my office in the Langlands building, send me an email on awright@vnc.qld.edu.au, or speak to your Pastoral Area Leader. Parents, please also feel free to get in touch with me if you are concerned about your child’s emotional wellbeing.

Dr Ashleigh Wright, College Psychologist

2019 AFAS EXCHANGE INFORMATION EVENING
The next Information Evening  for ALL boys who are participating in this year’s AFAS Exchange​ during the September holidays will be held on Thursday May 23 at 6.30pm in V7.

WOOLWORTHS EARN AND LEARN
Start bringing in those sticker sheets. Help Villanova earn equipment by collecting Earn and Learn stickers. For every $10 spent, you will receive a sticker to add to your sheet. Completed sticker sheets can be dropped off at the Junior School Office or directly at Coorparoo, Camp Hill and Carindale Woolworths stores. Thank you for your support!

The promotion starts May 1 and ends June 25.

TUCKSHOP
It is necessary for all students to have their student card with them when making purchases at the Tuckshop. Boys who have lost their cards are to have them replaced.  Replacement cards are available from the Tolle Lege Library (before school or at first or second break) at a cost of $5.00.

To view our current tuckshop menu: Tuckshop Menu Price List – 2019

Roster

Monday 20 May
Narelle Rieck
Julie Stokes
Jane Green
Sally Caltabiano
Maria Woodger
Sylvia Wright
Mary Brady
Stephanie Sullivan
Susanne Smyth
Katrina Hermiston

Tuesday 21 May
Donna Perkins
Melissa Davidson
Lisa Forsyth
Nicole Webb
Leanne McMahon
Sonia Ballen
Susan White
Tricia Allen

Wednesday 22 May
Tina McCaul
Peta Gomersall
Kathy McCaul
Maria Corones
Lena Bazzo
Lisa Gorry
Denise Smith
Fiona Jenkins
Eleni Diakos

Thursday 23 May
Maria McGarry
Zsuzsa Henderson
Juanita Ryan
Kath Eberhardt
Pauline White
Bernadette Papagiannis
Kelly Stassi
Jane Lawson
Chrissy Bonfiglio
Leesa Francis

Friday 24 May
Mission Day – no Tuckshop

LIBRARY ROSTER

Monday 20 May
Luisa Snell
Jaclyn O’Shea

Tuesday 21 May
Melanie Pickering
Cristina Palacios

Wednesday 22 May
Maritsa Malanos

Thursday 23 May
Kelli Stassi

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITY TRAVEL REBATE – Semester 1
Does your child have a verified disability that requires transport assistance to and from school?

Has your school’s learning support teacher assessed your child’s travel capability rating as ‘semi-independent’ or more dependent?
Visit our website to see if you qualify for financial assistance to help with the cost of transport and apply here  during May.

Late applications cannot be accepted after 31st May.

TELEVISON: 1959
Villanovan, Vol. 2 No.3:  November 1959

The following is an extract from the Report by the Rector, Fr J. Hanrahan delivered at Speech Night at the Rialto Theatre, West End on November 6, 1959.

“…I cannot subscribe to the cry of protest and woe being sent up all around us because of the advent of television.

Undoubtedly it is a fascinating – and time-consuming – medium, but if the parent’s exercise even ordinary restraint they can make it an invaluable ally in controlling their children.  In the multitude of poor programmes there is a leaven of most informative and educational telecasts, which will broaden the horizons of our youth, and give them first-hand information they would never otherwise have obtained.

I do not fear TV, but I do fear the thoughtless parents who are not strong enough to insist on ‘watching rules.  They themselves, their children and we teachers will regret the arrival of TV in those homes.

I know of no more excellent single aid to teaching than this new medium, and we should aim to make a set available to every class being catered for in the ABC’s Television for Schools series.  I hope some kind benefactor will lighten our financial worries by donating a set to the College.  With the building needs ahead of us we are unwilling to turn aside finance into such a channel while the basic demand of classroom space is not yet met.”

SCHOOL OF ROCK ANNOUNCEMENT
Villanova is excited to announce that George Audet (7 Blue) has been cast in the Korean Touring Company of School of Rock the Musical. Congratulations to George on this amazing achievement. George will be travelling to South Korea in mid-May for approximately four months to perform in Seoul, Busan and Daegu. We look forward to hearing about his amazing experience upon his return.

PLAY SCHOOL IS COMING TO THE HANRAHAN THEATRE
For parents of younger children, Play School will present Humpty’s Showtime on Saturday 29 June in the Hanrahan Theatre. Tickets are on sale now via this link.