Villa View: Issue 35/21

Dear Members of the Villanova College Family,
On Thursday 11 November, we remember the guns that fell silent on the Western Front on November 11, 1918. In World War I more than 60,000 Australians lost their lives. During the day at 11.00 am we will pause and be still in silence to recall the supreme sacrifice made by so many young men and women. We will offer a prayer for peace for our world which is still experiencing violent unrest, wars, and conflicts.

They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest we forget

Activities over the last weekend
Last Friday afternoon Villanova College students joined with Loreto College students to host the Head 2 Heart Program for disadvantaged young people. The program offers respite for families who are struggling with a range of issues and disadvantage by offering an overnight stay where the young people engage in a range of activities. The students from both Colleges were plunged into the role of carer and guardian under the watchful eye of staff from both Colleges.

Ms Nicole Jones and Mrs Kate Garrone were glowing in their reports on the work of the students from both Colleges. They were empathetic, compassionate, caring, responsible and humble in their interactions across the weekend. We are extremely grateful for the generosity of the students and our staff to host such an event.

Mothers of Old Boys
On Saturday afternoon over 100 Mothers of Old Boys gathered in the College grounds to reconnect and share memories and stories of their days as mothers of Villanova College. Many of the mothers worked in a range of activities as volunteers from the Uniform Shop to the Tuckshop and their contribution made a significant difference to the students at the College.

Thank you to the event organisers, Mrs Kath Underhill, Mrs Nat Davidson, and the many staff who contributed their time and effort to assist with the catering and drink service. We thank Mr Nick Foster for the music during the afternoon. Over $2000 was raised for the Terry Hendle Bursary.

Bridge to Brisbane
On Sunday morning 20 students and supporters took part in Bridge to Brisbane as part of the Bridge to Bursaries campaign. It was brilliant to see the students getting behind the activity and an incredible $7,500 was raised for the Terry Hendle Bursary. A very big thanks also to Father Saldie whose tenacity and dedication helped to make Bridge to Bursaries so exceptional. He was with the boys every step (run) of the way. Many members of our community were also involved in the Bridge to Brisbane and contributed to the fundraising for the bursary.

Staff News
Tomorrow we will farewell from the College, Mrs Sue Homann – Marketing and Communications Manager. Sue has worked tirelessly to ensure the highest standards with all the marketing and communications produced by the College and has lifted our online presence enormously over the past three years. We wish Sue and her family all the best as they relocate to Sydney to be reunited with Sue’s husband Matt.

Mental Health
Tom Price, Student Council President, 2022 has produced a video for Mental Health titled, “You are not Alone.” Tom wrote to many schools across Brisbane to invite them to take part and most accepted the invitation. Tom was also able to gather the support of many recognised community members to add their voices to the cause. The 2022 Student Leaders are determined to raise awareness of Mental Health across our community and all schools. We thank Tom for his initiative and the many people who supported this project. Here is a link to the Video- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch0Zg1aZPs8

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

God bless

Mr Mark Stower, Principal

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

Junior School Staff have met this week to nominate Year 6 students for the annual Robbie Sellars Award, to be presented at the Moving On Ceremony on Tuesday 23 November 2021.  This is considered to be an award of the highest calibre in the Junior School – honouring a former student, Robbie Sellars, Class of 2001.  A fellow classmate of Callum Hackett and student whilst Melissa Liddy was teaching at Villanova, Robbie is remembered fondly as the example to us all.  Life is about gratitude and at this time of year we should embrace that philosophy more than ever.  Robbie was a student that saw life for the miracle that it is – he sustained and permeated an attitude of such joy, positivity and light that even leukemia did not dampen his relationships with friends, classmates and staff.  Robbie chose to live every moment in a way that lifted his peers back then and still has a monumental impact on all of us today.

So, nominations were submitted this week with examples of students who have over two years, displayed and modelled examples of humility, Augustinian spirit and community.  With each nomination, a student must have a staff member second them – and then a voting process takes place.  All nominees have recorded at least one vote, and the winner has secured the majority.  2021 is a year where the calibre of students nominated is very high!  Staff have provided numerous examples from the classroom, playground, AIC sport, AIC co-curricular (e.g. debating), commitment to Mission (e.g. Masses and Liturgies, special events such as R U OK Day and service to the community).  It’s an extraordinary process but also very rewarding – those students that have persevered and done “the right thing because it’s the right thing to do” have been recognised by the very carers that have been beside them over their Junior School experience.  Stay tuned for the announcements in the upcoming weeks.

It is quite a trying time of the year.  Emotions can run high.  Boys can feel tired and so the next few weeks seem to be that steep climb – but I can assure you we need to work harder than ever to bring positivity to the forefront.  If we can treat others how we want to be treated, then the next 11 academic days of 2021 can be completed with joy.  If we can communicate clearly and with a mindset to moving forward, then we can embrace the people around us for all their sparks and best features – because every individual has them.

A family as big as a year level cohort will be guaranteed to have moments that create memories, and it’s never perfect, but its capable of growth.  Patience, time and forgiveness helps us build the relationships that mean trust can be established even when we hit the bumps in the road.  This is what makes a connection valuable long term – and so as the adults, staff and parents should aim to be the role models – solidarity in helping our boys to be happy and feel a sense of belonging is paramount.

Finishing strongly is important.  It can be a time of humility – perhaps the grades are not quite what you hoped – but your son gave it everything he could at this stage.  So, let’s celebrate that.  His best.  It can be a time of great laughs – knowing that we, as human beings, are just going to be who we are, no matter how hard we try to follow those rules – we adore each other’s strengths and challenges to hit those targets.  It’s ok, we tried our best.  It can be a time where we have the “ah-hah” moments.  Finally, the penny drops and that magic happens – all the work and effort comes to bring that improvement that we began to wonder may not happen.  This can be in the form of all kinds of things – from listening to instructions, completing homework, improving a grade, packing a bag the night before, remembering a camp form to be returned asap – anything can be paraded as a miracle at this time of the year.  Make sure you do.  Sometimes the simplest of things can be what we acknowledge as success.  Every boy deserves that.  So, find that over the next week and celebrate because it’s worth the smile on their face.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Tomorrow the Middle School will host its inaugural “Colour for Cancer” day. Middle School students have been asked to wear their brightest colours and contribute a gold coin donation with proceeds going to Cancer Council Queensland.

This initiative was created by some very determined Year 7 boys, in partnership with Middle School’s very own ministry group, YAYM (Young Augustinian Youth Ministry). The boys are motivated to raise both awareness and money for a cause that undoubtedly reaches the hearts of all our community.

One person, in Queensland alone, is diagnosed with cancer every twenty minutes.

The Cancer Council Queensland helps cancer patients, and their families, as well as supporting vital research. They also foster programs that target cancer prevention and early detection.

Thank you in advance for your support of this initiative and congratulations to the boys for their determination to see their day happen.

On Monday, our Year 9 students attended their annual Day of Reflection. Throughout the day the boys were called upon to reflect on their Middle School journey, their personal growth and their transition to Senior School. The engagement of the boys was not only a true testament to the fine young men they are becoming, but an acknowledgment of the struggles and tribulations that can emerge during adolescence.

I extend a heartfelt congratulations to the boys, and a warm thanks to the staff for their support of the day.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Year 12
As the Senior class enters the twilight days of their Villanova Journey next week, with the culmination of External exams and the finishing rites of passage events of the Formal and Graduation, we pray that our young men, in the words of Henry David Thoreau,’ suck out all the marrow of life’, in enjoying every last moment of their final time at the College.

Positive Culture
Over the last few weeks I have been reading an incredibly thought-provoking book entitled Belonging- The Ancient Code of Togetherness by internationally renowned performance coach, Owen Eastwood. One of the underpinning concepts of the book, inspired by Eastwood’s own Māori heritage is that of whakapapa, which embodies our universal human need to belong and represents a powerful spiritual belief that each of us is part of an unbroken and unbreakable chain of people who share a sacred identity and culture.

One of the significant takeaway chapters for me (Chapter 6- The Glue) with respect to positive culture and performance related to the cultivation and sustainment of trust. According to Eastwood, “trust is an emotional state reflecting our assessment of whether we can rely on those around us.” So what can we do environmentally and relationally to strengthen trust in working with each other- whether that be in the classroom, sporting field, in the workplace or at home. French psychologist Eric Blondeau illuminates the following critical elements as impacting on trust levels in teams:

1. Authenticity- what we say and what we do are the same; at the heart of this is integrity.
2. Loyalty- that we all live by the tribe’s code; that we accept and respect those standards and refuse to break them for our own self-interest.
3. Adaptability- that we are open-minded and able to change.
4. Emotional Availability- when you need me, I’ll be there.

Persistence
One of my favourite thought-leaders in the self-development space is Jon Gordon. I subscribe to his weekly newsletter which explores positive strategies to fuel your life and career. In a recent article, he outlined five ways to keep going and stay encouraged when there are internal thoughts of quitting.

Keep your Vision Alive:
It’s so important to keep looking forward and seeing the future you want to create. If you can see it you’ll keep moving towards it. Consider making a vision board or creating a vision notebook filled with pictures and words that remind you of what you are working towards- whether that be an academic goal in a particular subject or being selected in a higher sporting team.

Fuel up with Purpose:
There will be many times you want to give up but always remember that your purpose is greater than your challenges. It is the ultimate fuel for a meaningful journey. It gives you meaning and mission which helps you overcome adversity and avoid burnout. This purpose could be to become more selfless by engaging in the act of service by joining a ministry group.

Believe the Best is Yet to Come:
We don’t give up because it’s hard. We give up because we get discouraged. No matter what challenges you face along the way keep encouraging yourself. Believe the best is yet to come. If you believe in what you are doing and know that this is what you truly want, it can provide the energy to sustain a growth mindset on the journey towards success- both academically and personally.

Focus on the Process, not the Outcome:
There will be many times where the outcome is not looking good. You may not be hitting the numbers you want or getting the results you desire. The key is to focus on the process and just work to get better each day. Focus on small victories. Strive to hit milestones. If you have a vision you want to create and focus on the process each day, you’ll gradually move towards your goal and dream. Build confidence through the drafting process by writing a solid paragraph each night or completing the revision of a syllabus bullet point.

Trust in a Bigger Plan:
Sometimes when all hope seems lost and you feel like there is nothing more you can do; I believe you can do something that will help everything. You can pray and trust in a bigger plan for your life. Take sometime to dwell within your interior self and find spiritual strength in your relationship with God.

“The best way out is always through.”- Robert Frost

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Let’s Talk Scams
This week is Scams Awareness Week, coordinated by www.scamwatch.com.au.

Despite the deceptively light title, scams present a very serious issue when related to our online behaviours – an email ‘scam’ we click on can result in identity theft, extortion and serious data breaches, not to mention the cost to a victim’s wellbeing. To encourage scam awareness this week, the Esafety Commissioner has just highlighted its Key Issues – Online Scams page via recent social media posts on LinkedIn and Facebook. For further information visit the Esafety Commissioner page directly at: https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-issues/staying-safe/online-scams-identity-theft To stay connected to the Esafety Commissioner posts I strongly recommend you follow their profiles directly on LinkedIn and Facebook.

In addition to Scam Watch there are other agencies and organisation that can assist with identity theft and scam awareness/alertness. A full list of resources, tools and support services is available at: https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/news-alerts/scams-awareness-week-2021#scamwatch-tools-and-resources

Facebook BYOD Page
The College has recently shared relevant posts regarding eSafety, cyber bullying and scam awareness to our Villanova BYOD Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/villanovabyod.  We will continue to post relevant alerts, general information and steps/support for preparing BYOD laptops for 2022 to this page from this point onwards. Please like and follow the page to be updated.

STUDENT SUCCESS IN ICAS
This year self-selecting Villanova students took on the challenge of competing in the ICAS program. Competing against high achieving school students across the country our students represented Villanova achieving great individual results and demonstrating the academic excellence seen in our classrooms. Each test challenges students with content both at, and well above their current year level with their results compared across the country.

• In Digital Technologies we had 13 Students compete receiving two Distinctions, four Credits, one Merit and six Participation Awards.
• In English we had 24 Students compete receiving four Distinctions, 10 Credits, one Merit and nine Participation Awards.
• In Mathematics we had 38 students compete receiving two High Distinctions, five Distinctions, 15 Credits, five Merits and 11 Participation Awards.
• In Science we had 25 students compete receiving two High Distinctions, five Distinctions, eight Credits, 3 Merits and seven Participation Awards.

All students are to be congratulated for taking on the challenge.

The following students are congratulated on receiving the top awards:

High Distinctions (Top 1% of the country)

Mathematics
Year 6              Damian Ellis
Year 10            Thomas Winn

Science
Year 6              Damian Ellis
Year 8              Isaac Lerato

Distinctions (Top 10% of the country)

Digital Technologies
Year 6              Adam Ibrahim
Year 9              Sebastian Wilson

English
Year 6              Adam Ibrahim
Year 7              Alex Capaldi
Year 7              William Dolphin
Year 8              Isaac Lerato

Mathematics
Year 5              Marc Smith
Year 8              Bailey Horvath
Year 9              Charlie Hodgson-Day
Year 9              William Makridakis
Year 10           Isaac Lynch

Science
Year 6              Archie Dickinson
Year 8              William Dolphin
Year 9              Charlie Hodgson-Day
Year 9              Sebastian Wilson
Year 10            Thomas Winn

Credits (Top 35% of the country).  Thirty-four students across Year 5 – Year 11 were awarded a Credit in one or more of the four disciplines. Great work gentlemen!

Head 2 Heart

Last Friday as the school emptied out at the end of another busy week, our Year 10 students who were volunteer leaders on the Head 2 Heart Program met up with the young adult leaders from Edmund Rice Camps and awaited the arrival of the students from Loreto College and their little buddies joining us for an action-packed camp.

The weekend was an enormous success.  We had the most enthusiastic responses from our students whenever we checked in about their experience and the school yard was filled with laughter, games, singing and creativity.  Personally, I was frequently filled with awe as I watched how capable young people are of creating fun experiences, and my heart swelled with pride on many occasions watching these young men and women care for, entertain, listen to, comfort and joke with their little buddies.

The boys’ reflections capture their experience:

“The Head 2 Heart Program was so eye opening for me and I enjoyed every second of it. In one day I’ve learnt so much about the struggles of other people and how I can help.” – Kai

“The knowledge and experience that was shared in the Head 2 Heart Program was invaluable.” – Riley Lightfoot

“Head 2 Heart allowed me to discover the importance of working with people, rather than for them. That way, it greatly benefits both you and the other person” – Ben Addley.

The moments that we experienced on that camp are so rare and valuable – they will stick with us forever. – Ashton

‘I signed up for the Head 2 Heart Program expecting to help disadvantaged kids. Yet what I soon discovered was the disadvantaged kids actually helped me more. The bright smiles warmed up the room and made me realise what was really important. We are all so privileged to be where we are, and we get too caught up in the little things in life, where we need to be cherishing them. I will remember the experience for the rest of my life.’ – Charlie Corrigan

The Edmund Rice Head 2 Heart Program allowed me to get out of my comfort zone for the benefit of our little buddies. As well as giving them a great time it gave me memories and experiences that I will never forget. – Isaac Solomon

I got to express feelings that I have never felt before without any judgement and discrimination. It allowed me to discover a new way of thinking I never knew I had in me. Once in a lifetime opportunity. Memories and bonds have been formed that will last a lifetime. – Mitchell Voss

Villanova College’s Reconciliation Action Plan
Villanova College has started on a long-anticipated journey of creating the Villanova Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). “A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a formal statement of commitment to promoting reconciliation between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples” (Reconciliation Australia, 2020). The RAP will become a foundation for creating meaningful reconciliation initiatives within the school and wider Villa community, as well as supporting the implementation of a curriculum that will contain embedded links to reconciliation actions.

“At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians” (Reconciliation Australia, 2020). The RAP emulates Villanova College’s strong commitment to reconciliation and through our future actions we will continue to have respect for First Nation’s culture, community and connection to country. Over the coming months the RAP Working Team will look to finalise the College’s RAP. Further updates on the College’s RAP will be communicated through the Villa View.”

Work and Welcome at Villanova College

A number of staff at Villanova make a voluntary donation to the Work and Welcome program that enables us to welcome refugees as members of staff to get work experience in our community, with the hope this will lead to longer term employability.  It has been a program we have supported over a number of years in partnership with Multicultural Australia.  Bruno joined the Maintenance Department last year in Term 4, and we were so impressed by him, that he was able to then move into a position here at Villanova College.

At the beginning of Term 4 this year, we welcomed Nawid who is newly arrived from Afghanistan to our community.  Nawid is highly qualified as an engineer and has worked extensively with NATO and defence as Technical Translator/Interpreter; Combat interpreter/Translator and more.  He has fascinating life and work experiences to share, and the Maintenance Department has been thoroughly enjoying his contribution to the team.  We hope to be able to share more of his story with students and staff in the remaining weeks of term.  We certainly are delighting in the fact that he and his wife and little boy are settling well into life in Brisbane.

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

Ms Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

Well done to all the Year 6 students who participated in the Queensland Primary Schools Touch Football Competition over the weekend. Our boys dominated the competition and were able to take out the title of ‘Queensland Primary School Touch Football Champions’. This cohort are on fire! Taking out the State Championship in Touch football and AFL is a superb effort and cannot be underestimated. This is a magnificent feat. Congratulations to all players and coaches. Please read a full report written below.

Many thanks go to all those who participated in the Year 7 – Open (2022) AFL, Volleyball and Cricket trials last week and over the weekend. The trial process is a massive undertaking. The first draft of all team lists is now posted within the Parent Lounge and student café portals. It is unfortunate that some boys missed out on the AFL and Volleyball team selections. Due to the limitation of resources, it is impossible to cater for all boys in these sports. For those who missed out, we encourage you to contact a member of the Sports Office if you wish to be added to a cricket team.

During this week and next, many of our AFL and Volleyball teams plus some limited Cricket teams will play trial games against Iona and St Laurence’s. These trials will further assist our coaches to adjust teams in readiness for the up-coming seasons ahead. Please be aware that all teams / squads are subject to change throughout the entire season depending on player performance, attitude and attendance at training and on game day.

May I ask that you take note below of the further trials and clinics we have on offer earlier next year. These will be advertised via the ‘Locker Room’ over the next week.

As this weekend is ONLY a trial weekend, I am keen to keep things very low key. It is not necessary to have large groups appear at games. The focus this weekend is for players to improve their game and for coaches to adjust their teams in readiness for Round 1 next year. The expectation is that the teams will be changed to those which have been published already.

As always, I expect our boys to play hard and fair but mostly importantly give your best this weekend and enjoy the time spent with your mates!

2022 Coaches, Managers and Officials Needed!
For those who are interested in any of the above mentioned positions in 2022, please complete the online nomination form which is posted on the ‘Locker Room’ page.

All online nominations received will be compiled into a database. Before each season commences a member of the Sports Office will contact those who have expressed an interest to assist. A final confirmation of commitment will be asked, and further details will be given.

I thank all those who were able to assist throughout 2021 and I invite those who would like to assist in 2022 to become involved for the benefit of our students and the College.

Villanova College Swimming – Langlands Pool
Please find below the dates which training will cease over the upcoming vacation period at Langlands Pool. We certainly hope all our swimmers will continue their training throughout the Christmas holiday period.

Villanova College Swimming
Last day – Friday 17 December 2021
Start back – Tuesday 4 January 2022

AIC Cricket Trials
All internal AIC cricket trials are now complete for all teams from Year 5 – 12 (2022). After the trials held on Sunday, much deliberation has been spent towards compiling team lists. All lists will be published by midday today via the Parent Lounge and Student Café portals.

IMPORTANT! – All members of the A and B teams from Year 5 – 10 will have further training up until the last week of term as per times and dates below.

• Year 5A/B and 6A/B Teams – Friday 12, 19 and 26 November 3.30 – 5.00pm at Little Langlands
• Year 7A/B and 8A/B Teams – Wednesday 10, 17 and 24 November 3.30 – 5.00pm at Little Langlands
• Year 9A/B and 10A/B Teams – Monday 8, 15 and 22 November 3.30 – 5.00pm at Little Langlands

All other teams will commence their training in 2022.

First VI and Second VI Cricket Trials v Iona
The First VI and Second VI cricket teams will have a trial against Iona this Saturday 13 November at Iona. All times and venues are found on the web via the ‘Locker Room’. The First VI and Second VI and the Year 10 Development Team will have further trials against Gregory Terrace on Tuesday 30 November. All team lists for these GT trials are posted in the Parent Lounge and Student Café portals as well. If you are listed and you are unable to make the games, please advise a member of the Sports Office.

Toowoomba Mini Tour
All those selected to attend the Toowoomba Mini Tour will be emailed all the information, including the medical and permission forms by the end of this week.

Cricket Date Claimer
In 2022, the following cricket trials have been organised before Round 1 of the AIC Cricket season.

• First VI , Second VI, Year 10 Development team Trial v GT at GT – Tuesday 30 November 2021
• First XI Cricket Tour – Toowoomba, Wednesday 1 – Friday 3 December 2021
• First XI Christian Brothers Cricket Tournament – Monday 10 – Friday 14 January 2022
• First XI T20 Tournament at Padua – Monday 17 and Tuesday 18 January 2022
• Annual Cricket Camp /Clinic at Villanova Park – Tuesday 18, Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 January 2022
• 10A T20 Tournament at Ashgrove – Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 January 2022
• Churchie Trial – Friday 21 January 2022 – 6A, 6B, 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, Third VI, Second VI and First XI will have their annual cricket trial v Churchie. Times and venues will be published soon. Please keep this date free. There will be a 7A v 7B internal trial on this day as well (Churchie will not have Year 7 teams trailing on this day for us to play).
• Saturday 29 January 2022 – Year 6 – 12 cricket trials v St Laurence’s College, Year 5 will have internal trials. Times and dates TBA
• Saturday 5 February 2022 – AIC Round 1 v Iona

Cricket Selection Process – Phase Two
After the trials held over the weekend, all coaches on the day were asked to submit to the Sport Office their ‘recommendation’ as to who they believe should be in the A, B, C teams based on the performances given at the trial game.

Please be aware all players were offered at least four/five overs batting overs (within a pair) and a minimum of two overs bowling on the day of the trial. Mr Nathan Dufty and members of the Sports Office were present throughout the day observing players and talking to those who conducted the games regarding selections. The Director of Sport, the AIC Co-ordinator and the Head Cricket Coach (Mr Nathan Dufty) will work through the recommendations and cross-reference the performances given at the game with the gradings given at the net sessions held last week to formulate all teams.

As per the ‘Selection Guidelines and Code of Conduct’ acknowledged and agreed by all parents at the time of sign-on. A, B and C teams are graded. All coloured teams will be of equal grading. Students who make an A and B team are classified as competitive teams who compete for aggregates. These players will have a specific role in the team and duties will not be shared equally within these teams. If parents prefer their son to receive equal batting and bowling opportunities, please inform the Sports Office and we will place your boy in a C team or lower.

All teams from Year 5 – 12 will be posted on  Parent Lounge and Student Café portals by the close of business today. These teams will be considered as draft teams. Following the trials and training held early next year these teams can and will change.

All Cricket team/squad lists are subject to change throughout the entire season depending on player performance, attitude and attendance at training.

AIC Volleyball Trials
All internal AIC Volleyball trials are now complete for all teams from Year 7 – 12 (2022). The first draft of all Volleyball teams is now posted in the Parent Lounge and Student Café portals. Those who did not make a team are encouraged to see a member of the Sports Office to be added to a Cricket team list.

Volleyball Trial Process
Although all team lists have been posted, the AIC Volleyball trial process in on going. All players selected thus far are required to attend further trials held against Iona this Saturday 13 November. Another set of volleyball trials have been organised against SLC next Saturday 20 November as well. We hope to finalise all volleyball teams from Year 7 – 12 after the SLC trials. It is possible for teams to change after further training and the trial games held this week and next.

Volleyball teams for this week and next will be posted in the Parent Lounge and Student Café portals. Please continue to check the team list weekly.

All Volleyball team / squad lists are subject to change throughout the entire season depending on player performance, attitude and attendance at training.

Volleyball Date Claimers

• First VI Toowoomba Volleyball Tour – Wednesday 1 – Friday 3 December 2021
• Saturday 13 November 2021 – AIC Volleyball Trials v Iona
• Saturday 20 November 2021 – AIC Volleyball Trials v SLC
• Monday and Tuesday 17 and 18 January 2022 – AIC Volleyball Clinics
• Saturday 29 January 2022 – Full school Volleyball trial v St Laurence’s College
• Saturday 5 February – Round 1 v Iona

Volleyball Trial Game v Iona Saturday 13 November
Please be aware that a full set of volleyball trial games has been organized against Iona for all teams. Please visit the College website for all times and venues. Players are to arrive at least 30 minutes before their allocated game time. All players are to wear their PE uniform.

Swimming/Volleyball and Cricket Clinics – 2022
Please find below some date claimers regarding to the up-coming swimming, volleyball and cricket clinics, which are open to all students from Year 5 – 12 in 2022. These are great opportunities for our student athletes to develop their skills before the 2022 AIC sport season commences.

• Cricket Clinic – 18, 19 and 20 January 2022 at Villanova Park (flyer found on website within AIC Cricket section)
• Swim Clinic – 17 January 2022 at Langlands Pool (flyer found on website within AIC Swim section)
• Volleyball Clinic – 17 and 18 January 2022 at Goold Hall (flyer found on website within AIC Volleyball section)

AIC AFL Trials
All internal AIC AFL trials are now complete for all teams from Year 5 – 12 (2022). The first draft of all AFL teams is now posted in the Parent Lounge and Student Café portals. Those who did not make a team are encouraged to see a member of the Sports Office to be added to a cricket team list.

AFL Trial Process
The AIC AFL trial process is ongoing. All player/teams selected thus far (from Year 6 – Opens 2022) are required to attend further trials against Iona this Friday 12 and Saturday 13. Another round of AFL trials has been organised against SLC next Friday 19 and Saturday 20 for all teams from Year 8 – Opens only.
Note:  All teams from Year 5 – 7 are not required to participate in any training next week as they are not playing a trial game that weekend against SLC.

We hope to finalise all AFL teams from Year 6 – 12 sometime after the SLC trials are completed. These teams will be updated and posted on the web before the end of year. It is possible for teams to change after more training and the trial games held this week and next.

AFL teams for this week and next will be posted in the Parent Lounge and Student Café portals. Please continue to check the team list weekly.

All AFL team / squad lists are subject to change throughout the entire season depending on player performance, attitude and attendance at training.

AFL Date Claimers
The College has organised trial matches on the following dates. All times and venues will be posted on the college’s website within the ‘Weekly Fixture’ section via the ‘Locker Room’ each week.

• Friday 12 November 2021 First Trial match v Iona College
• Saturday 13 November 2021 Year 6 – 10 Trial matches v Iona College
• Friday 19 November 2021 First Trial match v St Laurence’s College
• Saturday 20 November 2021 Year 8-10 Trial matches v St Laurence’s College
• Friday 28/Saturday 29 January 2022 – Year 6 – 12 AFL trial v St Laurence’s College
• Saturday 29 January 2022 – Year 5 Internal AFL trials
• Friday 4/Saturday 5 February 2022 – Round 1 v Iona

At the conclusion of the internal Year 5 trials, all ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’ teams will be announced.
Those students who were unsuccessful in making an AFL squad are encouraged to join a cricket team.

AFL Trial Games v Iona – Friday 12/Saturday 13 November
Please be aware that a full set of AFL trial games has been organized against Iona for all teams from Year 6 – Opens (2022). Please visit the College’s website for all times and venues. Players are to arrive at least 30 minutes before their allocated game time. All players are to wear their Villanova football socks and rugby shorts. A jersey will be supplied at the game. Please wear your Villanova squad shirt to and from the game.

First XI /Second XI Football Trials
The College will commence the First XI /Second XI Football program on Tuesday 23 November at Villanova Park from 3.45 – 5.00pm. The second session will be held on 25 November as per below:
Trial session dates

• Tuesday 23 November
• Thursday 25 November

Currently we have a list of students who we require to attend the trials posted within the Parent Lounge and Students Café portals. Any other student who aren’t listed and would like the opportunity to trial are welcome to attend. Boys are to find their own way to the trial venue. Those who cannot make trials for any reason are required to inform Mr Kemp – AIC Football Co-ordinator akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au

Queensland Primary Schools Touch Football Competition Champions
Villanova entered two Year 6 teams into the Queensland Primary Schools Touch Competition last weekend. The event was run over two days with Saturday’s results determining which finals pool each school would be placed in.

The A division team won all four matches on Saturday 9 – 2 v Ashmore SS; 13 – 0 v Clover Hill SS; 9 – 0 v Wellington Point SS and 10 – 3 against Mary MacKillop College and were placed into the Championship Division, giving themselves the opportunity to become Primary Schools Champion. The Division 2 side won one of their pool games on Saturday against Wynnum B but went down to SLC A and Dalby and were placed into the plate finals, where they made it through to the semi-finals before being beaten.

The Div. A side defeated Norville SS 13 – 1 in the Round of 16 and then defeated Iona College 4 – 3 in the quarter finals. The boys went on to be defeated in the semi-final and came up against Algester SS in the Championship decider. Algester have won this championship four times in the last six years and their side was stacked with Met West representatives. Villanova went on to win 6 – 4 in what was a cracking final where there was so much skill on display and were crowned Queensland Primary Schools Champions for 2022.

Congratulations to all the boys in both teams for the way they embraced this competition and conducted themselves over the two days. Thanks also to Mr Matt Pearson and Mr Grant Hine for taking the reins and enthusiastically coordinating the logistics. I know the boys got a lot out of it and enjoyed the run around.

Representative Sport
Well done to Reid Gapes who was selected in the Queensland Kiwis U12 Junior Rugby team. Reid was selected in the 23-man squad that took on the AUSuperstars for the Trans-Tasman Cup. Reid’s team took out the Trans-Tasman Cup winning their game 59 – 0.

Over the weekend the Queensland Kiwis took on a Samoan and a Barbarians team. The Queensland Kiwis won two of their three games only losing to Samoa, placing them second on the overall leader board. They won their semi-final against the Barbarians to take them through to the grand final which they lost. A definite highlight for Reid was leading his team in the haka before both the semi-final and grand final games as well as being named “Player of the Tournament” by his coach. Great effort Reid!

Qld Kiwis, Reid Gapes in the top row second from the left

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

Junior School Christmas Concert
On Tuesday 16 November, our Junior School music calendar will conclude with a Christmas Concert commencing at 2:15pm in Hanrahan Theatre.  Musicians from Year 5 Band, Year 5 String Orchestra, and Junior School String Orchestra will be performing for the Junior School.  There will be some ticketed seating available for parents and the event will be streamed.  Information regarding this performance will be distributed shortly.

Return of Loan Instruments
The census date for the return of College owned instruments is Tuesday 16 November.  This date includes all instruments that will be loaned in an ongoing process into next year, and all Double Basses and Tubas that are currently stored at home.

Information will be distributed regarding collection points within the Augustine Centre.

Rehearsals and Lessons
As we draw to the end of term, many of our ensembles will be concluding rehearsals over Week 6.  Your son’s Ensemble Director will be in contact regarding rehearsals as we move into Week 7 and their continuation.

Lessons will continue during Week 7, with some tutors catching up classes into the beginning of Week 8.  In terms of ensuring we avoid assessment requirements in the general classroom, can I please ask that families communicate with tutors well in advance regarding exams so as to avoid missed lessons.

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

Villanova Branded Camp Chairs – $35; Wildcat Coolers – $30

All items can be purchased via Trybooking through the following link:  https://www.trybooking.com/BMEML
Purchases can be collected from the Music Office and all profits will go to the Music Support Group.

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

Date Claimers
Further information will be distributed shortly to participant families:

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

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

LIBRARY ROSTER (MONDAY 15 NOVEMBER – FRIDAY 19 NOVEMBER)
All volunteers rostered on this week will be contacted directly by the Library.

TUCKSHOP ROSTER (MONDAY 15 NOVEMBER – FRIDAY 19 NOVEMBER)
All volunteers rostered on this week will be contacted directly by the Tuckshop.