Villa View – Issue 9, 30 May 2024

Mission Week Reflections
Last week was a wonderful week for the College as we celebrated college house patrons St Rita and St Thomas of Villanova through Mass and celebrating their life stories. Our liturgy celebrations were only part of the week with the focus on our 31 year partnership with the Philippines through AFAS also a key element of our week. This year we had three ladies who coordinate the program for us in the Philippines with us, in classes, with our boys sharing their knowledge, experience and stories of the impact and importance of the AFAS partnership and the enormous reach and influence that student and community support at Villanova provides. The activity afternoon and BBQ on Friday were a wonderful success, and I give enormous thanks to our Mission and Identity team and the student leaders who were the drivers behind the project. Particular thanks to those students with strong throwing arms – I appreciated the ‘dunking’.

Villanova House Showcase
Congratulations to Augustine House on their victory in the first annual Villanova House Showcase. It was a wonderful way to conclude Mission Week and a great community building activity. At the end of the day, I shared with students the ‘why’ of the day, as it is somewhat unusual to spend time in an activity such as large scale choirs. In essence, it is an opportunity to have our boys move beyond what is their ‘normal’ daily experience and stretch themselves into the world of performance and singing. While some may uncover an enjoyment, or even love for performance, others may just be exposed to a challenge they would otherwise turn from. The effort, coordination, support and teamwork required, and of course the final outcome, offers strong and tangible evidence of the value in dedicated hard work and combined creativity between staff and students. There is no question it was a wonderful addition to the calendar.

Villanova Songwriting and Performance Competition
Last night we celebrated and enjoyed the culmination of a six-week journey for a group of College musicians who took up the challenge of writing and performing original rock compositions under the tutelage of Ball Park Music a popular and successful Brisbane band in the independent music scene in our country. The evening was one of the truly fantastic nights of the year as we celebrated through music our boys creativity, dedication and talent. Bands and solo singers performed three songs, at least one of which was an original. The winner of the songwriting contest won a recording session with Ball Park Music and will submit their recording to the Triple J ‘unearthed’ competition. While all bands and performers were very good, the standout artists, and winners, were “The Sha” a duo of Harry Wuele and George Audet. Their performance was outstanding and we look forward to hearing their final recorded composition in the not-too-distant future. Much acknowledgment must go to Mr David Campbell in the Music department who inspired and drove the concept.

Exploring Strategic Plan 2023-2026
The fourth of our 2024-2026 Strategic elements is centred on staff and staff development. As many are aware there is a challenge in the area of teacher availability and retention in the larger education market and as such we need to ensure that Villanova remains an employer of choice and that our teachers are of the highest calibre and are always looking to deliver their best and improve as students, curriculum and school environments change. As such, the strategic plan has evolved in this iteration to specifically include a targeted approach to staff learning, development and wellbeing. It is our belief that through this lens we are able to unlock and develop each child’s potential as they learn and grow at Villanova. By attracting, retaining and developing each teacher to be their best, and ensuring they align to our educational mission, values and methodologies, we are well placed to encourage and develop every boy toward his potential and to become the Villanova graduate.

Developing, Forming and Supporting Staff
Strategic Intent:
Attract, retain, develop and support outstanding staff, who are supportive and understanding of Augustinian Charism, are committed to our boys, their learning and who feel engaged and valued.

Elaborations:
i. Develop a workforce strategy that supports quality induction, graduate and early career teacher support, career mentorship, support of non-teaching staff career pathways, and the education, coaching and encouragement in developing high impact teaching strategies.
ii. Implement an annual professional learning plan for teaching and non-teaching staff that supports the College’s annual strategic foci and encourages teacher engagement, development and professional learning growth.
iii. Continue to facilitate initiatives that support teacher and staff wellbeing, including but not limited to hospitality, EAP support, spiritual and retreat opportunities, collaborative planning and work practices, professional development plans, annual goal setting and staff physical and mental health support.

Mr Paul Begg, Principal

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

House Choir Competition
Last Friday the College, especially the student body and staff, came together in community, to celebrate and engage in Mission Day, the finale of our weeklong Mission Week. A decision was made to conduct the House Choir Competition as the culminating event on the day and it proved to be a great success judging by the level of student attendance, engagement, and enthusiasm.

As previously stated, the theme of this year’s competition was ‘Songs from the 80s’ and the Houses performed such classic songs as Eye of the Tiger and Video Killed the Radio Star. The judging panel consisted of a parent representative of each House- the House Mums- who appraised each performance against the following criteria:

Participation
Choral Alignment
Choral Sound
Interpretation/Arrangement
Choralography

The champion of the competition was Augustine House who performed I’m on my Way by the Proclaimers. Rita House’s tropical rendition of Kokomo by the Beach Boys and Thomas House’s very Australian performance of Down Under by Men at Work rounded off the top three.

Whilst the competition on the day proved to be a great success in its inaugural year, I am more pleased about the process and what this event in the House Cup represented- the opportunity for collaboration, courageously stepping outside comfort zones and engaging in the creative process of the performing arts. All elements that can be suppressed and not fully explored within the context of Boys Education but aspects that I passionately believe are healthy for our young men to experience.

I would like to acknowledge the work of the Heads of House in preparing their students for each performance and for the many staff who embraced this competition and offered their gifts and talents to support the students in their rehearsals and shaped the collective creative visions- from recreating Ancient Egypt to showcasing the various styles of Australian Pop Princess Kyle Minogue.

Student Voice
This week’s College Assembly celebrated an eclectic mix of aspects of College life as well focusing on National Reconciliation Week. The student leader address was delivered by College Vice Captain Ewan McCarthy and illuminated the GREATS value of Teamwork; in particular how the selfish actions of the individual can damage and undermine the representation of the team. Ewan cited recent examples from AIC sport which failed to reflect our College values. He stated:

“The actions of one singular person represents the group. On the sports field you don’t just represent yourself, you represent your team and your College. The way each and every one of you holds yourself speaks for the actions and interests of the boy next to you, and the coach on the sideline.

And it isn’t just the way that you act during the game, but also the attitudes that you bring before the game, and most importantly how you act after the final whistle has blown. Over the past few weeks, there have been several occasions where boys have displayed arrogant and disrespectful behaviour towards teammates and opponents after finding either victory or defeat.

Before each game, the Firsts teams recite a prayer. A prayer that encompasses the Villa values on the sports field. The prayer tells the players how to be a winner, and how to be a loser. “If we shall lose, let us stand by the road, and cheer as the winners go by”. These words aren’t just a g-up before the game but a code that players promise to uphold throughout their time in the green and gold.”

The prayer in full is:
Dear Lord, in the battles we go through in life. We ask for a chance that’s fair. A chance to equal our strides, A chance to do or dare. If we should win, let it be by the code, with faith and honour held high. If we should lose, we’ll stand by the road, and cheer as the winners go by. Day by day, we get better and better, till we can’t be beat. Won’t. Be. Beat

The prayer epitomises the College value of humility and the hallmarks of good sportsmanship. Ewan’s challenge to the student body is one that needs to be supported by all community members, especially leading into this weekend’s fixtures against Iona College.

“A man’s character is his fate.” – Heraclitus

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

The Villa community was thrilled with the recent Mission Day carnival and the impact it had on student, staff, and parents. The day was not just fun, games, food and sugar; it also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of volunteering, self-sacrifice, and thinking of others.

From setting up booths to assisting younger students, our volunteers were a testament to the power of teamwork and community spirit. Volunteering helps us understand the value of so much; the positive impact we can have on others when we share our gifts and talents [as St Thomas reminds us], and also, that most precious commodity – our time and our presence. It teaches us to prioritise the needs of our community and to work together towards a common goal.

Mission Day served many purposes. It is an opportunity for students to step out of what may be their comfort zone and engage in acts of service and generosity. It is also an opportunity to see and listen to how people in the Philippines live, how little they have, and how privileged we are. It really puts into perspective the difference between our wants and their needs.

I mentioned earlier the opportunity for self-sacrifice. Many people across our community gave up things that were important to them to ensure that the carnival ran smoothly. The act of sacrificing for the greater good helps combat feelings of entitlement. It reminds us that true fulfillment comes from contributing to something larger than ourselves for the benefit of others. By putting others first, we learn humility and empathy – essential qualities for personal growth and community building.

Entitlement can often creep, almost undetected, into our lives, making us feel we deserve certain privileges without the accompanying effort. Mission Day is a powerful counter to this mindset. By volunteering and truly listening to how others live with less, students experienced the joy of giving and the satisfaction of contributing to the well-being of schools and scholars that are our partners in the Australian Filipino Augustinian Solidarity [AFAS]. This shift in focus from self to others helps to break down the barriers of entitlement and foster a culture of gratitude and generosity.

While Mission Day is a special event, the spirit of service and giving it engenders should never be viewed as a one-day effort. There are a number of ways that we, as a community, can enact service on a daily and weekly basis. Whether that be on the bus on the way to school, involving ourselves in YAYM or The Green Team, simply being a positive friend or contributing at home with jobs and chores. There is so much can all do to give back and appreciate the positive impact others have upon us and that we can have upon others.

So let us ALL carry the spirit of Mission Day forward.

Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Playing team sports is simply one of the best ways to get to know ourselves and others. Games require a combination of natural talent, timing, luck, and determination. It is a risk to walk onto a field or court. We wear our House shirts – Augustine, Thomas, Rita, Monica, Nicholas, Alypius, Ambrose, Adeodatus – or we proudly wear the gold and green Villanova sports uniform, and we throw, pass, kick and shoot our way to a win, draw or loss. As parents, it can be a nerve-wracking, thrilling and exhausting emotional experience on the sidelines. As coaches, we can be pleasantly surprised at how the boys perform – whether the score is in our favour or not. Ultimately, it is the young men who must make their best decisions, quickly and collaboratively, and show as much coordination and spirit as they can muster, under pressure. It is no easy feat, but it is also an incredibly rich experience for several reasons.

Social interactions help us to build confidence in the way we handle ourselves.  Trainings mean there are routines – organising uniforms, gear, following a warmup routine, listening to instructions, following rules in drills and learning to be proud when we succeed, as well as knowing what we need to keep working on to be our best. An organised team sport means there are regular opportunities to be active which then lends the chance for our boys to get to know each other in a different environment, away from the books and screens. They must rely on each other and build trust within their unit. They must try to be that source of strength to help in a game situation. Sharing the experiences – changing before/after school, training, travelling to games, facing opposition (quite often with a few old school mates in those teams) and then continuing to work on improving each week brings an incredible amount of growth as a person over a couple of months.  Boys begin to branch out in break times to those friendships that form in teams. Connections are fostered and the experiences they have had together are precious.

An individual’s character takes a lot of shaping in team sports. There is the art of organising the sports kit bag – packing all that is needed can be an interesting experience for some. There are few boys who can say they have never had to call home for help, borrow a spare set of socks or a tie from the Junior School Office, or simply wear their trainers for the day because the black leather shoes are under their beds at home. Resilience comes from this responsibility, as does the art of problem solving and prioritising what we can do as plan b, c or d.  Life goes on whether we are dressed at our best or otherwise. Setting an alarm and being on time for training and games also can take a little practice, especially when winter sports are on. The cold weather, the shift in daylight and the timing of breakfast or dinners can mean the boys must dig deep and soldier on.

It is also an exponential shift to go from the safe spaces of training with familiar faces and spaces to the games at Villanova Park or other AIC Colleges. It takes courage to know the ball is coming at you and it is time to show the team and spectators what you can do. Hit or miss, our boys then need to keep their chin up and follow through that play and every other until the whistle blows.  They must manage substitutions (some love a break, and others never want to come off the field/court) and stay enthusiastic on the sidelines. Winning is always uplifting and reassuring that we are doing well. Mustering the good nature and team spirit to acknowledge another team’s victory can be tough – but it is also essential as life is exactly that – win some, lose some. It should not necessarily be that we were not “good enough” but rather that others can simply be better on a given day.

Our community is all the better when our Junior School boys commit to team sports. I know that when they walk onto the fields at Villanova Park against St Laurence’s, hand in hand with our Seniors, for the Firsts Rugby and Football, that those moments matter. There are eight precious years to make memories that last a lifetime. We watch as boys move up the levels over time, as they work on speed, endurance, and skills. Bodies change, mindsets strengthen and the impossible becomes a reality. I wish all our boys the very best for the last two weeks of sport – just know that the very best one, Basketball, is next and this is when life just can’t get any better!

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Mission Week 2024 was fantastic! A huge thank-you to the efforts of all. I can in all honesty say that we simply could not have done it without the generous contributions of all. We needed and had the participation of every single person – and really that is what a day like Mission Day is all about. It was a wonderful day of celebration and it was fabulous to see our students rising to the occasion and taking the leadership and engagement required to make the week a success.

It was an absolute highlight to have our fantastic partners from the Philippines with us and we are so grateful for the presence and involvement of Judith-Fe Pilongo, Des Diel and Altha Diopido. They have witnessed Villa at its best in Mission Week and there has been a profound sense of connection through our Augustinian heritage and the 31 years of deep relationship between our communities.  They loved being with us, and we have loved having them! We wish them a safe onwards journey and look forward to our AFAS immersion group being with them in September.

Fr Saldie has offered extraordinary hospitality in the priory and across Brisbane to them during an incredibly busy week where he has led us in what Mission Week is all about. Hopefully all our staff still have a rose or a coin to remind us of the messages of St Rita and St Thomas from our Mass. His expertise is also behind so many of our beautifully put together videos and photos of our boys in action serving others. His capacity is a treasure for us at Villa. I am not sure there has been any time to sleep in the last 10 days. He departed for the Philippines for a conference with the Augustinians on Sunday and I know on behalf of our community we extend our heartfelt gratitude to him and wish him all the best. We look forward to his return in two weeks.

On Sunday 19 June, past, present and future AFAS participants and their families gathered with staff who have been involved over the years along with our AFAS partners.  Following a joyful Mass at the St James Parish celebrating the feast of Pentecost we gathered in the hall for music, shared stories and lunch.  It was fantastic to have with us Kerry Bayfield, who was amongst the founding staff along with Juanita Jacobs who has remained committed to AFAS across its 31 years.  For parents it was a wonderful opportunity to be amongst our AFAS partners and for all the opportunity to share stories was enthusiastically received.  Amongst the conversations the dream of recommencing the AFAS Elders program with Old Boys was discussed.  Certainly, the deep impact of our immersions to the Philippines could be felt not only by students but by families of those who participate as well.

Our Mission Day had a new format this year, in response to our Ministry students, particularly our AFAS students really wanting to ensure that it was a day that raised awareness, built community and gathered funds for what many of them have now seen first-hand as the work of AFAS to empower young people and communities in the Philippines.  It has been an enormous effort to mobile the students in their leadership and get students involved.  I am extremely grateful for the leadership of Alisa Cleary in creating a focus on student leadership and the amazing support of Sean O’Neill and Tony Rolls in together providing the scaffolding needed to structure and support the day.  Sally Bryon also did a fantastic job with our staff roster so we knew all bases were covered.  I cannot express enough gratitude to the staff who stepped in make the week a true celebration of service and giving.  Whether assisting with stalls and activities, or ensuring people knew where to be and when, or taking up an expert position at the BBQs and serving.

A big thank you to our Ministry Captain, Harry Bryant and the Ministry Leaders who did so much of the work behind the scenes to prepare and make the day a success.  A special mention also to Leon Tom and Lucas Fleming from Year 11 and our YAYM leaders in Year 9 who turned up consistently and have shown leadership and initiative. Their involvement means that they will hand over a legacy to other students who will already know what it is to be involved in Mission Week. We are still in the process of settling all the accounts, but there has been an excess of $5000 raised on Friday through the generous participation of our students, a fantastic contribution to AFAS projects.

The House Choir was a new initiative for 2024 and the boys rose to the occasion. It was so great to see our community having such fun. Thank-you for the enormous effort of our Heads of House and Heads of School in starting something new and ensuring it was such a fabulous community event to have on our Mission Day where every student had a chance to be involved. I know that without the staff support this event would not have come off as successfully. Thank you!

Across the week we had the following events involving so many generous people. Thank you to all involved to make them happen:

• Distribution of 1500 Red Candles to our students and staff
• Drum line and official welcome to our AFAS partners
• Shared opportunities in classrooms with our AFAS partners
• Hosting our AFAS partners and ensuring they experienced Mount Coot-tha, South Bank, Gold Coast, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, a home cooked family meal and a picnic
• St James Mass and brunch with over 100 AFAS participants and their families gathering to share stories and reconnect
• Meet to Learn session to learn about our AFAS partners and explore links throughout and across our curriculum areas
• Mass of St Rita and St Thomas
• AFAS partners seeing our service works at Emmanuel City Mission and Rosies
• Preparation Session for our AFAS Immersion in September with parents and students

Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week
We are currently in the midst of Reconciliation Week as a nation. Villanova College strives to work for Reconciliation and Justice for Australia’s First Peoples and to show respect for and remember and honour the Stolen Generations. We are grateful to Mr Steve Bremner and his Religion and Ethics class who led our Liturgy on Reconciliation Week at our College Assembly this week.

I ask you to join us in prayer and action for Reconciliation, especially in this week.

Prayer for Reconciliation
God of all people,
We give thanks for the diversity of the peoples and culture here on our nation of islands.
Help us to learn and grow as we come together as one.
We pray especially for this nation, Australia, that all who live here never lose the ancient connection to the first people of our land.
Help us to listen and learn from the stories of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander ancestors, that we may be richer for their wisdom.
Amen

150 Years of the Cathedral of St Stephen’s
On Friday 17 May, members of our Executive Student leaders and Matt Levander, Head of Senior School, gathered with community members, special guests and dignitaries for Mass to celebrate 150 years since the opening and blessing of the Cathedral of St Stephen in Brisbane.

A message stick was processed into the Cathedral on Friday for the last stage of a journey that began in Pentecost last year. The message stick—an ancient indigenous form of communication—has travelled throughout the Archdiocese, entering the lives and liturgical celebrations of Catholic communities from Gayndah to the Gold Coast, Caloundra to Ipswich, and reminding us of the many hearts and hands that form part of our wider Catholic community. Villanova College is immensely proud to be a College within the Archdiocese of Brisbane and part of the celebrations this year.

Upcoming Events
Year 9 Twilight Retreat at Loreto – Friday 31 May

Mrs Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

It was wonderful watching the House Choir at Mission Day last week. Despite many being out of their comfort zone, the boys got involved and had fun. The House System in action on Friday showed how relationships are fostered between students of all ages, and what an impact positive role modelling can have on younger boys. Even though they may not admit it, each House wanted to win.

Competition is healthy for boys as it fosters resilience, enhances social skills, and promotes personal growth. Engaging in competitive activities, whether in sports, academics, or hobbies, teaches boys to set goals, work hard, and persevere in the face of challenges. The House Choir Competition also provided valuable lessons in teamwork, sportsmanship, and handling both victory and defeat gracefully. By learning to navigate the dynamics of competition, boys develop critical life skills that prepare them for future successes and challenges. Students were impressed with Augustine’s choreography and precision timing and there has already been talk about how to topple them for the next House Cup event!

This week in Wellbeing, Year 11 students were fortunate to listen to passionate advocate for road safety, Melissa McGuiness.  Following a road crash in which her son’s choices took four innocent lives, including his own, Melissa decided to use her tragic experience to facilitate a social movement for good. Year 11 student Lucas Fleming has provided some thought-provoking commentary about the session below:

Intentions. Choices. Actions. These three words can be found in the header of the website of You Choose and no more apt summary of Melissa’s speech can be provided. She presented to us from the paradigm of a parent stricken by grief over the loss of a son, and yet, maintained an optimistic stance regarding the “culture change” her program aims to cultivate. It quickly became evident that she was not presenting from a desire to garner sympathy, but rather, to attain this very cultural shift – to put the belief that teenagers are inherently reckless and irresponsible to rest, and to see our generation look out for one another, and call out recklessness to protect our mates. She used the aphorism “a rising tide lifts all boats,” encouraging us to serve as this rising tide, to lift up our mates, and to protect them – certainly a potent message for the entire cohort. All these key messages underpin and can be effectively summarised through the program’s motto: “Own the Choice; Own the Outcome,” an emphatic reminder that choices have consequences – and the right choice, whilst not always the easiest path, will ensure benefit for all.

In other news, Villanova is taking part in the 2024 Push Up Challenge.  The Push Up Challenge is a fun way to engage the boys around physical and mental fitness while encouraging conversations around mental health.  It’s a popular event amongst schools and has gained real traction in recent years.

“Being an all-boys school, The Push-Up Challenge has made extremely valuable advancements in my peers’ ability to have those hard, vulnerable conversations in a really casual but effective way. For the senior students, it’s provided us with competition, an outlet for stress and several important reminders to keep on looking after ourselves mentally and physically while we’re so caught up in school.”
Dylan, St Bede’s College, VIC

The event, starting next Wednesday, June 5, and running for 24 days, is a fantastic opportunity to foster teamwork and connection through physical activity. It’s a win-win situation, combining the benefits of exercise with the chance to build stronger relationships and a sense of community. The aim is to complete 3249 push ups which represents the number of lives lost to mental health in Australia in 2022 alone.

Our Student Ambassadors Harvey Crawford and Benny Lawrance will be on the Middle School astro turf each morning from 8:00am getting boys involved and leading the charge. We hope to see as many Villa boys as possible come along and join us.

As we approach the last few weeks of the term, when assessment deadlines loom and exam preparation begin, students often become more stressed. Feeling stressed before assessments is entirely normal. Tests, exams, trials, auditions, and recitals can all induce stress. However, a certain amount of stress is beneficial, as it keeps us alert, motivated, and focused. Developing the ability to manage stress before significant events is a valuable life skill.

It’s crucial that while the boys are studying, they also take time for themselves and avoid becoming overwhelmed by their study schedules. The following tips may be of benefit to your sons as they prepare for the exam period:

• Chunk their study into sessions
• Have breaks regularly to allow the brain downtime so they can return with renewed focus
• Plan and map study sessions to ensure they hit all exams equally

I hope the boys prepare well for their upcoming assessments and enjoy the last few weeks of term.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing

Choir, Guitar and Piano Workshop
On Tuesday evening, the first of our Winter Concert Series was convened in Hanrahan Theatre with our Choral, Guitar, and Piano students sharing their work from the past term.  The evening was reasonably well attended to witness the 50 students involved in this event.  With a number of debut performances from our piano studio, through to a world premiere of a new guitar ensemble work composed by Music Captain Demitri James, the evening was quite enjoyable.

On behalf of the music team, I would like to pass on my congratulations to all students and staff involved.  Thanks to the Music Support Group and music leadership team for manning our BBQ and stall, and thank you to Mr Miller, Mr Hartley, and team for the assistance with the production of this event.

We are looking forward to the remaining concerts we have across the end of term and hope to see you at one of these events.

Ball Park Music Workshop and Showcase
We have come to the end of our Ball Park Music workshop event with our bands preparing to share their original and cover songs this coming Thursday evening, 6:30pm, in Hanrahan Theatre.  The lower theatre is being transformed into Brisbane’s newest, hippest, all-ages venue with a lighting rig and sound system that would make U2 weep being installed.  It is going to be an incredible event – we highly recommend you come along to celebrate the work of these students.

I would like to thank Mr Campbell for the vision, and Mrs Casey for her work in assisting the students.  Thanks also to Mr Miller and Mr Hartley for working on production for this project.  I would also like to thank Year 12 student Henry Manning for his work in designing and programming the light show for this concert – I am certain the hours invested will pay off in an incredible show.

The event will cater for parental seating, and a standing room only for rock fans.  All tickets can be purchased via the following site:  VNC Battle of the Bands (raiselysite.com).  The Villanova College Music Support Group will be running a BBQ and drinks stall on the night so families will not need to purchase dinner prior to the vent.  The BBQ will be running from 6pm.  We look forward to seeing you all there.

Term 2 Concerts
Our concerts continue through the remainder of term.  We look forward to seeing you at one or more of these over the coming fortnight.

Gig-sheets and logistical information will be distributed to families regarding each of these events shortly.  MSG are running BBQs at each event – they will be reaching out accordingly seeking support from parents.

We look forward to seeing you at these concerts over the coming month.

Grandparents Morning Tea
Unfortunately, due to general illness in our community currently, it has been determined that we will postpone next week’s Grandparent’s Morning Tea.  We apologise for any inconvenience and look forward to sharing our music with our Year 5 families at a future time.  Please stay tuned for more information.

Key Dates Term 2
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary:

Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers
Our fantastic Music Support Group have organised an innovative fundraiser for Villanova College.  You may have heard the buzz about our Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers…  the MUST HAVE items for the beach/cricket/park/fishing/BBQ

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.

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

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

Director of Sport Address
As we approach the end of the Trimester 2 Sporting season, I would like to acknowledge our Year 12 students who will play their final games in the green and gold. Thank you for your service to the respective communities, we hope the journey with your peers has been an enjoyable one and we all wish you well in your final matches.

We transition soon into Trimester 3 Sport with Basketball, Rugby League and Tennis selection trials commencing in Week 9, Term 2 from Monday 10 June. Track & Field will start from Week 4, Term 3. All students are reminded they must register for Trimester 3 Sport by this Friday 31 May. The Trimester 3 trial schedule will be available by Monday 3 June.

Over recent weeks, it has been disappointing to witness a minority of Villanova College students not meeting expectations on and off the field of play. Unfortunately, a common theme recently is for our boys to win with arrogance. This is not something we should be proud of nor condone. Sport is about winning and losing with dignity. It is about sharing disappointment and celebrating with humility. Moving forward, I am hopeful all students continue to work on this aspect of their development, and I challenge peers to hold those boys accountable if they are not reaching our standards.

Livestream Links
Please note the livestream link for Firsts fixtures in Term 2:

• Football – Football – AIC Live Streaming
• Rugby – Rugby – Explorer Live Streaming

Draw – Round 6 vs Iona College, 31 May/1 June
The Round 6 Draw is now available on the Locker Room Overview page.
For all future rounds, the draw will be posted to Locker Room by the Wednesday prior to the round ahead. This is the earliest possible time we can post this information.

Results

Chess Round 5

Football Round 5

Rugby Round 5

AIC Sport Results – Associated Independent Colleges

Trimester 3 Sport Sign-Ons
Registrations for Trimester 3 Sports, Basketball, Rugby League, Tennis and Track & Field are now available. Click on the link below to register. Registrations will be due by Friday 31 May. Students registering late will need to collect a form from the Sports Office.

Term 3 Sport Sign-on 2024

Team Photos
Please note Team Photos will be taken this Saturday 1 June for Junior Football teams Years 5-8 at Villa Park (underneath Andrew Slack scoreboard)
The photo schedule is attached below. Students are to arrive 15 minutess prior to their photo time, in full playing uniform including boots.
First XI Football, First XV Rugby and Junior Chess team photos will be taken at the College  on Tuesday morning 4 June.

Team Lists
Team lists for Round 6 will be posted by Thursday 30 May to Parent Lounge and Student Cafe.
Team lists will be posted by Thursday prior to the round ahead. This is the earliest possible time we can post this information.

Sports Club – Villa Park Canteen Volunteers
The Villa Sports Club will be looking for volunteers to assist on the Villa Park canteen in Term 2. There will be a registration link sent out to the community each week for parents to sign up. Proceeds from the Villa Park canteen go directly to the development of all our AIC sporting programmes.

To register your assistance for Round 6 at Villa Park, please click on the link below to register. Junior Rugby and Football (Years 5-8) will be at home this Saturday 1 June. We really do appreciate it.

 AIC Round 6 – Villa Park — Signup Sheet – Sat 1 June

AIC Draw 2024
Please find attached the AIC Draw for 2024.

Communications
Families are reminded to access all Sport information via the Villanova College website and the Villanova College App. The Locker Room Overview tab provides updated information regarding training schedules and current AIC/trial draws.

Training Schedules
For all updated information regarding training and selection trials schedules, please visit the Locker Room Overview page of the Villanova College website.

Term 2 Training Schedule – Weeks 1-8 (commences Monday 15 April)

Chess Training Schedule 2024

The Term 3 training schedule will be available by Monday 3 June, with selection trials starting for Basketball, Tennis and Rugby League in Week 9 (from Monday 10 June).

Villa Park pick-ups – Football and Rugby
Football is on Monday and Wednesday, Rugby on Tuesday and Thursday.

Transport for all players is organised ‘one-way’ from the College to Villa Park straight after school. Buses will depart Sixth Avenue promptly from 3:05pm. All buses will be supervised by a Villa staff member/coach.

Parents are reminded to please collect their son/s from Villa Park between 5:00-5:15pm. A staff member will be on site until all students are collected. The hope is that we do not need to ask our staff to remain past 5:15-5:30pm at the latest. We appreciate your consideration here.

A letter from the Principal has been distributed to all Years 7-Open Football and Rugby families regarding the expectations around pick-ups at Villa Park by no later than 5:30pm. Principal letter attached here.

Save the dates – Sporting Tours, Camps and Clinics

• St Augustine’s College Tour – Sydney – 17-19 June 2024.
• Rugby League Confraternity Carnival – Townsville – 22-29 June 2024.
• Xmas holidays 2024/2025 – Cricket Oblate Tour to Perth, Volleyball AVSC Tournament Gold Coast and Swim Camp at Tallebudgera.
• ** International Tour ** – Football and Rugby Tour to Japan – Easter 2025.
• ** International Tour ** – Basketball and Volleyball Tour to USA – Christmas holidays 2025/2026.

Sport Uniforms
Families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Villanova College Uniform Look Book. This information is found on the College website Uniform Shop page. Opening hours for the Uniform Shop can also be found here. All students selected in AIC teams are expected to wear the correct uniform for AIC fixtures each week.

For those students participating in Trimester 2 Sports – please see correct uniforms below.

Sport Contact List
If you are requiring information about a specific Sport, in the first instance, visit the website Locker Room page. If you need further clarification, please contact the relevant Coordinator below. For any training or game absences, please contact your Sport Coordinator

Director of Sport – Shaun McLean, smclean@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC AFL Coordinator – Matt Conlan, mconlan@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cricket Coordinator – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Swimming Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cross-Country Coordinator – Brian Pascoe – bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Chess Coordinator – Kath Underhill, kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Football Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Golf Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Basketball Coordinator – TBC – contact the Director of Sport
AIC Rugby League Coordinator – Alex Russell, arussell@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Tennis Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Track & Field Coordinator – Anthony Kemp, akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Water Polo Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
Composite District Sport – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
Lytton District Sport – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au

Wet weather cancellations
If there is any reason to cancel training sessions or weekend games, this information will be posted to the Villa App in the Notices section. Please ensure you have downloaded the Villa App and updated your preferences and settings.

The Villa Sports Department will endeavour to cancel morning training sessions by 6am and afternoon training sessions by 1pm. If a training session is cancelled, boys are not able to be dropped off to the training venue as there will not be supervision present. Please check the Villa App regularly for these notifications.

If any AIC fixtures are cancelled, we will follow the same procedure above. Timing will be dependent on when that information becomes available.

Mr Shaun McLean, Director of Sport

Chess Report – Round 5 versus Padua College
The magical mayhem and madness of Mission Day could have had a detrimental effect for Team Villa for Round 5 of AIC Chess. However, these lads, who had to don their academic uniform, sit on a bus for 30 minutes and travel to Kedron, were ready to play!  The atmosphere on the bus travelling over to the northside was full of enthusiasm and chatter following the House Choir Competition.

Warmly greeted by Padua, the tables were filled, and it was play time! Round 1 saw some very close games, and we were sitting at four drawn divisions, four winning divisions and two divisions to Padua. It was difficult to predict what would be the outcome next round.  A delightful afternoon tea was provided, and the hamburgers (including meat!) gave our lads the energy to swing into Round 2 with gusto.

True to form of late, Round 2 saw the Villa lads play some of the best matches all season. Particular congratulations to our Intermediates, who continue to fight the good fight for premiership. It was a fantastic comeback across the board and Villanova ended the afternoon victorious in seven out of 10 divisions. Well done gents, you are to be congratulated on a sensational effort in play, and commended on the spirit you show for your Villanova Chess brothers!

Our training sessions have been well attended, and it is very important as the season is coming to a close for this to continue. There has been a marked improvement in many of the lad’s playing ability of late, and we are seeing more and more wins as the season is progressing! Special mention of Cooper Le, who plays in the Intermediate division, who came second in an Open Division External Tournament on the weekend. Well done Cooper!

Let’s keep this momentum going Team Villa as we face Iona on Friday.

Mrs Kath Underhill, Chess Coordinator

Cross-Country
The Running Wildcats completed their traditional last session of the Cross-Country season with the ‘Callum Davies Magic Session’ in preparation for the AIC Championships.

This year the session was conducted by Villanova Old Boy Ben Sciacca who was Captain of the team in his Senior year, 2021. Ben is a gifted runner who has continued to train and improve his performances through his university studies. He is studying in his final year of Biomedical Science with the aim to begin his medical studies next year.

Ben spoke to the Running Wildcats about the value of the positive start to his days that running provided. He also outlined the value he placed on the ability of the running training to help him maintain a ‘clear head’.  Another positive he attributed to his running training was the discipline, especially important with his heavy schedule juggling the training with his studies.  Ben also told the boys to enjoy the camaraderie of the Running Wildcats and the enjoyment he obtained from being a part of such a positive team.  The squad left the session relishing the opportunity to see how good they had become at the AIC Cross-Country Championships.

A full summary of the 2024 AIC Championships on Wednesday 29 May will be available in next week’s Sports Bulletin.

Mr Brian Pascoe, Cross-Country Coordinator

Football Report
As I walked around Villa Park last Saturday, it was extremely pleasing to witness such a positive and infectious vibe amongst our junior Football teams for our Round 5 matches against Padua College. Adding to the occasion, was the importance of celebrating Reconciliation Round with our First XI team wearing a proudly designed Indigenous jersey.

The results overall from the weekend were a bit of a mixed bag, the final wash up in terms of results was seven wins, six draws and 17 losses. We had plenty of close matches on the weekend and it always shows the importance of playing out the entire duration of the match and staying completely focused. The game is made up of little moments that can change momentum of the match instantly, if we can turn the 50-50 challenges into our favour, I’m sure that we’ll see some more positive results on the scoreboard.

Our first XI team had a tough 5-1 loss against Padua.  Although I’m sure the boys are disappointed with the outcome, I know that they’ll keep working hard at training and will be looking to put up a strong “team performance” this Saturday against Iona.

With only two games left in the football season, we ask all players to keep listening to your coaches at training and to finish the season strong. We face a very strong opponent this Saturday in Iona College, look at it as a great challenge “within the season” to really put your best foot forward and show that true Villanova spirit.

Our Year 5-8 Football teams playing at Villa Park this Saturday will have team photos. Please ensure you are wearing the correct playing uniform and to also check the “photo schedule” so that you arrive in time for your allocated team photo.

Good luck to all teams this weekend in your Round 6 matches.

Years 5-8 Football Junior Football Coordinator – Mrs Maria Mascadri, mmascadri@vnc.qld.edu.au

Years 9-Opens Football Football Coordinator – Mr Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au

Mr Nathan Dufty, Football Coordinator

Rugby
First XV
After some late scheduling changes due to our Captain Jackson Connor being called into the Metropolitan East Rep side, we played Padua at their field in Kedron in front of weighted home crowd advantage. Whilst our preparation throughout the week was pleasing and the first 10 minutes showed enormous promise, costly defensive errors put us under enormous pressure and resulted in us losing confidence and ultimately momentum against a very classy and clinical Padua side.

Our set piece, particularly our scrum was one of the few pleasing aspects in what was a very disappointing performance which did not reflect our squad values. Daly Medal winner Will Gallagher showed plenty of courage of over the ball and Sam Binney was solid across the field. Edison Murnane, making his starting debut didn’t disappoint and was extremely solid in both attack and defence at inside centre. We need to search within ourselves ahead of what will he another tough opponent in Iona this weekend. Best wishes to the Seconds for their premiership match against Iona and congratulations to Christian Porreca for his selection in the Queensland 1 Schoolboys side after Metropolitan East won the State Championships featuring Christian, Jackson Connor and Harry Higgins.

Mr Matt Levander, First XV Assistant Coach

Round 6 this Saturday will be our biggest challenge across all grades as we prepare to take on heavy weights Iona College. Iona and Villa will clash in what will probably decide premierships for the following teams: 2^nd XV, 10A, 10B, 10C, 9C, 8A and 8B. We have had the opportunity of playing them in a trial and many of our teams went away knowing what they need to do to raise the bar and compete with them. We are in a better position now and hopefully we can compete and get on top of Iona and give ourselves an opportunity to come out on top.

Following Round 1, where we only came away with six wins against Ashgrove, we have won each round against SLC, SPC, SEC and Padua and we have now put ourselves in a position to take out a few premierships and to boost our position on the table in all grades. There are so many positives to take out of where our sides are now positioned, and many thanks must go to our coaches for their efforts to pick and get them to this point. It will be a big challenge for our teams but a positive belief and getting on the front foot from the word go, as well as following game plans, can help us to finish off strongly on Saturday.

BYES in Round 7- this Saturday will mark the last round of rugby for the following teams as St. Peter’s do not have sides in the 9A, 8A and 7A divisions. These three teams will finish their season this Saturday against Iona College. St. Peter’s play their only year level teams in the B competition. It is a shame that the season is shortened, but all other Colleges have had a bye in these age groups.

I would encourage all players to stick around and give your support to all teams across Villa this Saturday. Please remember, that if you are not playing and coming out to support, you must be dressed in the Villanova academic uniform. There has been a number of boys, particularly in Year 7, who have shown up wearing any gear and hanging around next to the players on the sideline. This is not a good look and shows blatant disrespect for the College uniform and rules. We also need to address how we look on the field. There are so many boys with their jerseys out, socks down or wearing different coloured socks. The ONLY way we dress for rugby is pictured above. Please adhere to this dress code.

NO DOG policy. A reminder to families that Villanova Park is private property and a dog free zone. Please leave your dog at home.

Mr Chris Everding, Rugby Coordinator

Zone Cricket
Villanova will be entering teams into the Zone competition in term four this year and we would like to encourage ALL of our cricketers to think about playing for the College rather than other clubs. The boys in Year 6 to Open will be playing divisional cricket in the BEARS comp and we want to try and keep our A/B and C/D players together to develop their cricket and to get a core group of players to stay together to help improve and raise the standard of cricket at Villanova. We didn’t perform as well as we would have liked this year, and the success of AFL has begun depleting our cricket numbers. Villanova is hoping to get these boys back and to try and keep our AIC teams together for the Term 4 competition, so we can be better prepared for the 2025 cricket season. Please keep this in mind and have a chat to other families who might think of playing for another club.

Strength & Conditioning
Refer to the Locker Room Overview page for the Term 2 Training Schedule, which includes the S&C schedule. Students attending LTAD (Long Term Athlete Development) sessions do not need to register prior to attending. Just arrive with your towel and water bottle.

Mr Marco Mastrorocco, Strength & Conditioning Coordinator

Speed & Agility Training – Year 5 – 8 students
Term 2 registrations are now closed. Information regarding the Term 3 programme will be available soon.

QSchools AFL – Senior
On Wednesday 22 May Villanova’s 1^st XVIII AFL Team competed in the first round of the Queensland All Schools AFL at a Met East Gala Day playing against Mansfield SHS and Moreton Bay Boys College.

The team had several players unavailable due to illness, injury, and other sporting commitments. This presented the opportunity for the following players to debut for the Leaping Wildcat’s including:

• Nate Lobegeiger
• Dom Simionato
• Ollie Truloff
• Hayden Ballantyne

All boys had memorable debuts playing their roles as outlined by the coaches on the day allowing the Leaping Wildcat’s to play compete well in all four games played. Villanova remained undefeated and progress to the next round on July 10.

Many thanks to Jack Logan who despite injury assisted with coaching the team on the day.

Well done to Rhys Doman, Jackson Dalrymple and Oscar McCoola who were identified as Villa’s best players at the Gala Day.

Congratulations to Zac Joyce who was named by the AFLQ officials as MVP for the days play.

Villanova remained undefeated and progress to the next round on July 10.

External Achievements
Congratulations to Harry H, Jackson C and Christian P who represented Metropolitan East Rugby Union at the recent state championships in Toowoomba. The Met East team won the grand final 14-10. A very special mention for Christian P who was named in the Queensland Schoolboys Team. Christian will be attending the Australian Schools Rugby Championships on the Sunshine Coast in July. Well done boys!

Picture above: Harry H, Jackson C and Christian P.

Villa Sport – humble in victory, gracious in defeat.

Giving Day 2024
We are calling on all families and Villa Old Boys to support our upcoming Giving Day on Thursday 6 June. This is a great opportunity to leverage tax advantages while contributing to the growth and development of Villanova College. All donations are tax-deductible and will go towards a new Sports & STEM Precinct at Villanova College. Let’s come together to support “One College, One Community.” Every bit helps, and your support is greatly appreciated! If you can land a hand on the day, we are also looking for volunteers!
More information to donate or volunteer can be found here: https://www.charidy.com/villanova

Upcoming Event: Villanova Community Carnival
Save the date: Saturday 20 July
Villanova Community Carnival 2024 | Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au)

Year 5 into 2026 Enrolments are now Open!
Year 5 in 2026 | Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au)

Upcoming P&F Meeting
The P & F Association plays a vital role in the development of community, through encouraging parent involvement in school events and activities, coordinating social and fundraising events for the benefit of Villanovans and their families. We invite you to join us on the 1st Monday of every month during term time at 6 pm, conveniently located in the College Library. The next P&F meeting is scheduled on Monday 3 June 2024.

Join us for our Weekly Breakfast Café!
Every Tuesday morning, our talented Year 11 Hospitality students take charge and run a delightful breakfast café from 7:30am to 9:30am. We have built a fantastic following of students and teachers, especially between 8:00am and 8:30am. However we would love to extend a warm invitation to parents to join us, particularly between 8:30am and 9:30am, to keep the boys busy and enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Check out below the wonderful menu our students have prepared!

Students With Disability Travel Rebate – Semester 1 2024

• Was your child included on the latest Commonwealth Census as a student with a disability requiring supplementary, substantial or extensive adjustments?
• Does your child’s Personalised Learning Plan confirm their transport needs are demonstrably different to those of their same aged peers by reason of their disability?
• 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 at www.schooltransport.com.au during May. 

Late applications cannot be accepted after 31 May.