Term 2, Week 5, 2023

May 26, 2023

Acting Principal

Ric Brodrick – Acting Principal

This week we were privileged to have Uncle Al Harris and his son Tristan ‘Pancakes’ Harris address the whole school and play didgeridoo at our Reconciliation Week assembly.

Uncle Al is a proud Noongar man, from Western Australia. Uncle Al volunteers his time each Wednesday, leading a cultural program for our Indigenous boarders. I thank Uncle Al and Tristan very much for the hours they put in to mentoring many of our boys.

Below is Uncle Al’s speech regarding the meaning of Reconciliation and how we can work towards bringing people together at St Patrick’s College.

Reconciliation Speech

I would like to begin by thanking Sam Clarke for his wonderful Welcome To Country. I want to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which we meet today, the Wadawurrung People of the Kulin Nation by paying respects to their Elders Past, Present and emerging. I bring special greetings from my Bibbulmann Clan of the Noongar Nation. You would know the area as Margaret River in the South west of Western Australia.

My name is Alan Harris. It would appear to you all that I am standing here alone, but I am not. While you can’t see the people standing behind me, I can feel the spirits of my Noongar People and my Mothers Tribe the Ngaanyatjarra People of the Central Desert. I am also here on behalf of the St Patricks Indigenous Wednesday night Boarders Group.

This week is “National Reconciliation Week”

The theme for this year is: “Be a Voice for Generations”

It seems to me that all we’ve been hearing lately is “The Voice”. In the Media we hear about “The Voice” in Parliament : Is it good or is it bad!!!. Then there is the TV show “The Voice”. Congratulations to Royston.

Now here we are today: each and every one of us are being requested to “Be a Voice for Generations”. OKAY so, let’s clarify what does this week actually mean?

The word ‘Reconciliation’ means “To restore friendly relations between groups.”

At its heart, the reconciliation message is about strengthening the relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all non-indigenous peoples of Australia. However, all efforts must benefit all Australians.

It has been established by Archaeologists that Australian Indigenous people have existed in this continent for some 125,000 years. Therefore, the Blood flowing through my veins and every Aboriginal person in Australia is 125,000 years old. Okay, so how many tribes are there? The Australian Aboriginal Communities consist of an estimated 324 Tribes, each one with their own unique Cultures, Beliefs, Laws and Languages.

National Reconciliation Week is the responsibility of all Australians. National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to reflect on our shared Histories, Cultures, and Achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving a more united Australia. You cannot separate Australian History and Indigenous History: They are one and the same. The True Story of this Nation began at the beginning of time. “Acknowledged by my people, as “The Dreamtime.”

The National Reconciliation Week 2022 theme was: “Be Brave. Make Change.”

Traditional protocols and ceremony are very much alive in our society today. St Pat’s listened to the message from last Year “Be Brave. Make Change.” and resolved to adopt and acknowledge this extraordinary week. I applaud your board’s decision. That was very courageous.

I explained to my Wednesday evening group that for such a prestigious college, St Pat’s was acknowledging without prejudice an event that was once a political football and instead of sitting on the sidelines, they used it as a step forward and not a step backwards in their overall plan of Inclusion as we move forward into the future.

Well done!!

Be Brave and Make Change needed to tackle the unfinished business of creating an Honest and Friendly relationship between all of our Communities. The big question is: can we change this stigma, this humiliation that continually imbues or soaks into our country’s DNA?

My answer is YES. WE CAN CHANGE.

We recently altered ONE word in the National Anthem:

‘For we are young and free’ to: ‘For we are one and free’. By changing One Word, we all gave recognition that yes Aboriginal Culture has been practised in Australia for a very long time. 125,000 years as a matter of fact.

To Change one word in our National Anthem has made a massive difference; So, the question is: can we change a Nation’s conscience?

UNTIL ALL PEOPLES OF THIS NATION ARE TREATED EQUALLY BY THE LAW AND BY THE STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS IN THIS COUNTRY, THERE WILL ALWAYS BE A DIVISION BETWEEN INDIGENOUS AND NON-INDIGENOUS PEOPLE.

If you answer yes, and you truly believe that, then it is up to each individual person here today to attempt to make that change. These positive actions can benefit all Australians.

So, what can you be doing as a classroom or simply a group of young people working towards Reconciliation?

“How To Be a Voice for Generations”!!!

Read the Reconciliation Action Plan that your College has launched
Invite Indigenous Elders to visit your group and share their knowledge
Research the Indigenous History in your region. (Those of you who live in another community can find out about your local Peoples).
Read literature from local Indigenous writers. (BADAC has a library of these).
Visit the local Indigenous Art Gallery. Maybe meet Local Indigenous artists. (The new Art Gallery is on Mair Street Ballarat,)
Attend local Indigenous Cultural Events. (Contact BADAC for more information).
Participate in activities during “NAIDOC WEEK”. (Join the march at BADAC).

Be a voice in your:

Classroom - perhaps give a “Welcome to Country” in your class.
Sporting Teams - don’t accept any racist comments in your team.
Family - ask how your family feels about this week?
Friends - do any of your friends disapprove of other cultures? If so, WHY?
Community - support Indigenous events.
When you see injustices, stand up for what is right.

This is the most important and crucial period of your lives. This is also the most important and crucial period to mapping out the future of this Nation. What you do now and what you decide at this age will determine which way your life will go. It will also determine which way the future “Australia” will be. Will Australia be racist-free or will Australia sink back to the days of oppression where a man was treated differently because of the colour of his skin or the Beliefs in his heart.

Each one of you is in the process of building your lives for the future, whether it be your endeavours to prepare for a sporting career or a professional vocation. You may even decide to stay at home and run the family farm or raise a family. Whichever way that you decide to set your lives, there are some things that will determine your daily routine and thoughts.

Reconciliation week gives all Australians the opportunity to focus on inclusion and acceptance from both sides of the spectrum: Indigenous and Non-Indigenous. That is going to be the responsibility of all people listening today. What your College has accomplished in such a short space of time, is a major achievement. However, there is still a ways to go. Through the assistance of Indigenous Students, Indigenous Community Members and College Faculty, the Reconciliation Plan and the Statement in your College has begun our journey of true healing.

Once again, Well Done!

HEALING DOESN’T MEAN THE DAMAGE NEVER EXCISTED.

HEALING MEANS THE DAMAGE NO LONGER CONTROLS OUR LIVES.

Thank you to Darren Burns and the Wednesday evening Indigenous Boarders Group for inviting me

to address this gathering on such a significant occasion.

To Acting Principal, Mr Richard Brodrick, The Faculty and College Captains, To Members of the student body of St Pats’ College, The family members of St Pats Indigenous Boarders, many whom have flown from very remote Communities to share this special week with their family members, and Special Guests. I have been delighted to be here with you today and have the honour of addressing Ballarat’s most prestigious College.

I will leave you with a statement from Doctor Martin Luther King Junior:

Do not allow anyone to pull you so

low as to make you hate them.

Skin may differ, but affection

Dwells in black and white the same.

THANK YOU.

Acting Deputy Principal

Carol Roberts – Acting Deputy Principal, Assistant Principal, Learning Innovation

Over the past two weeks, I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of conducting the College enrolment interviews, which involves meeting with prospective students and their families. These meetings are a wonderful way to introduce families to who we are, as well as getting to know prospective students and their families. One of the key messages I personally like to express to future students, is the importance of taking up every opportunity that comes along, as a St Patrick’s College student. In addition to our outstanding classroom instruction, the College prides itself on having an incredibly rich and broad set of co-curricular offerings. Almost every possible interest and talent held by our students, can be found in our co-curricular offerings.

Recently, we have seen an incredible number of tangible expressions of the value we place on our co-curricular and other non-classroom learning. From Wednesday through to Saturday, our students have shone on stage, at the College musical ‘Spamalot’. I went along to the show this week; I was amazed at the talent, and the joy that students experienced in performing, was palpable. On Tuesday, The Clontarf Academy held their official launch, to coincide with the beginning of Reconciliation Week. The St Patrick’s Clontarf Academy supports our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in achieving all their educational aspirations, with a strong focus on mentoring relationships. We’ve also seen students excelling on the sports field, in a range of ACC Sports activities, as well as leaders modelling the spirit of the College, speaking at a range of forums, from the Student Congress groups, through to student leaders addressing and leading the whole school reconciliation assembly. In the area of student formation, our Year 9 student underwent a full day retreat, and last week saw our annual Careers Expo, with hundreds of attendees having an opportunity to speak with representatives from tertiary, training, and industry sectors.

St Patrick’s College seeks to educate the whole person - mind, body, and spirit. Through experiencing new things, we discover who we are, and where our values, talents and interests lie. Through this, we become more confident, better able to make decisions, and lead a more fulfilled life; as well as forging the way towards future careers and endeavours. We are proud of all our students, and the way in which they approach and thrive in a range of activities, both in and out of the classroom. We are grateful for our dedicated and supportive staff, who share our commitment to providing a world of opportunity for our students. School provides a unique opportunity like no other, for young people to experience so many things; as parents, one of the best things we can do for our sons, is to encourage them to try out all the school has to offer – there is a wealth of opportunity awaiting every student.

Carol Roberts

Acting Deputy Principal & Assistant Principal – Learning Innovation

Wellbeing

Kevin Robillard – Assistant Principal, Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

Year 9 Dance Lessons and Social

Year 9 St Patrick's College students have partnered with Loreto students to learn traditional dances. There has been three sessions which began on Monday May 1 and will conclude with an evening social which will see students dress up for a formal affair. One of the dances learnt is the Pride of Erin. This beautiful waltz is danced in many parts of Ireland, particularly at Ceilithe in the North of Ireland. Slightly different versions of it are danced from place to place. All couples start the dance facing around the room anticlockwise. The long tradition of learning these dances is a nod to the Irish past of our school and heritage of families in our community. The occasion highlights the partnership of between the two schools and reunites many friends from the two schools who will know each other from the local primary school days, as well as the makings of new friendships.

Year 10 Night of Homelessness

As we move into the cold months of winter, we are reminded of those less fortunate than us. St Patrick's College embraces the touchstone of Justice and Solidarity through our social justice initiatives to educate and help others. As part of our Year 10 pastoral program, students will have the opportunity at the start of June to spend a night outside to gain a better understanding of those who are homeless. Students will spend the day on retreat focusing on a range of topics including learning about the Big Issue magazine, how they contribute to Edmond Rice Camps, and other social justice focused activities.

Students who have opted to participate in the night of homelessness will engage in a range of challenges and experiences including eating a meal from a soup kitchen, sleeping with the comfort of just a blanket, exposure for a small period of time to the elements of nature, and informative sessions from outside agencies working with homeless youth on a daily basis. Blankets brought by the students for the night will be donated to St Vincent de Paul to assist families during the cold Ballarat winter months.

Year 11 Men of Honour Day

On Tuesday May 16, St Patrick's College were honoured to have Glen Gerreyn, to address our Year 11 students. Glen delivers his Men of Honour program through sharing personal experiences and delivering content that explores masculinity, prevailing myths that are holding teen boys back, what respectful relationships look like, goal setting, and answering boys’ most pressing questions in a safe environment. The day was well received with Glen receiving immediate feedback from our boys. Below are comments emailed to Glen after the day finished.

“Today has really blown my mind with how wrong I have been doing things and how scared I was. I had always wanted to write my own song but never knew where to start or where it would even go but since I've been home, I have not only done the vision board you asked of us to do but I managed to finally be able to cleanly growl on the Tenor Saxophone.”

“You have been exactly what I have been looking for. I needed some guidance and truth about the world. I decided to take the VIA institute survey on character strengths, and it showed (1) Creativity (2) Love of learning (3) curiosity (4) social intelligence (5) gratitude.”

“I have been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia as well as a few other diseases that have made getting help in these developing areas a challenge in the past. Your strait forward approach empowering back story and hope for the future has given me a drive to make a change and helped remove a large amount of the fear of commitment to my dreams.”

Wellbeing Data

Since the start of the school year students have, as part of our Wellbeing Wednesday, completed surveys once a week. Through the Pulse program students also have the opportunity to send gratitude emails to other students or staff. I am heartened to share that so far 5290 emails have been sent in our community to express gratitude in the areas of kindness, fairness, humour, determination, or just to say thanks!

It is pleasing as well to see data that gives evidence to the strong sense of peer belonging and expectations for success. Data further confirms the majority of students feel safe with over 90% of students displaying they feel safe in the school environment. While there are areas we can improve, it is affirming and pleasing to have the voice of the students confirm the connection and enjoyment of being a St Patrick's College student.

Sincerely,

Kevin Robillard

Mission

Geoff Brodie - Assistant Principal, Mission & Identity

Last Sunday was Ascension Sunday and this Sunday is Pentecost Sunday. Two faith-inspiring moments in our Liturgical calendar.

“When Christ ascended into heaven, he did not abandon his disciples. Matthew’s Gospel begins with the angel’s words that Jesus will be called Emmanuel, which means God is with us, and it ends with the Jesus’ promise: ‘Know that I am with you always, yes, to the end of time of time.’” Sunday Missal.

The living presence of Christ, who is a friend and constant companion through life’s adventures, is an essential and constitutive reality at the heart of every Catholic school.

The Gospel reading for the Ascension also includes Jesus’ last teaching to his disciples: “Go, therefore, make disciples of all the nations; baptise them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” When College Chaplain Fr Eladio offered his Sunday homily, he pointed out the remarkable nature – life-changing, loving and all embracing – of this invitation. Significantly, we are all invited into the continuing work of God’s love on earth. Our share in God’s plan is to be active collaborative partners in the re-creation of the face of the earth in faith, hope, and love. Quite the task!

We are not alone in this adventure, for Pentecost Sunday celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit flooding our hearts (Rom 5:5). Again, from the Sunday Missal: “May the Holy Spirit fill our hearts this Pentecost giving us the courage to break down the walls we have built round ourselves. May the Spirit free us to proclaim the peace, joy, and forgiveness of God to everyone.” We need to remind ourselves that the defining characteristics of a Catholic school, a place that brings together so many different people with so many different histories, includes the peace between all members of its community, the joy of being together every day, and the forgiveness and mercy with which we choose to transform any conflicts into deeper understanding and friendship. Our sense of justice requires contrition and an acceptance of consequences from those who have offended, and mercy from those who have been offended. Admitting our mistakes and forgiving the mistakes of others are essential for breaking down the walls we build around ourselves, whether out of fear, pride, or simply a lack of attention. This is the curriculum of Pentecost to which we must hold ourselves, as a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition.

As we move past the mid-point of this term (already!!) let us unite our hearts with the words of the Psalmist (Ps 103):

Bless the Lord, my soul!

Lord God, how great you are,

How many are your works, O Lord!

The earth is full of your riches.

May the glory of the Lord last for ever!

May the Lord rejoice in his works!

May my thoughts be pleasing to him.

I find my joy in the Lord.

Lord, send out your Spirit

and renew the face of the earth.

Blessings,

Geoff Brodie

Organisation, Staff & Culture.

Tom Ferguson – Assistant Principal, Staff & Culture

Celebrating 130 Years: A Whole School Photo to Remember!

This year marks our 130th anniversary, and we celebrated this momentous occasion with a remarkable whole school photo. Students, teachers, and staff gathered on the school grounds to capture this special moment. The photos are taken with a green screen, however the end result shall showcase the unity and spirit that has defined St. Patrick’s College for over a century. The photo will serve as a lasting memory of this incredible milestone in our school's journey.

Upcoming Exam Period for Year 10 and 11 Students

As we approach the end of the academic semester, it's time for our Year 10 and 11 students to prepare for their upcoming exams. This exam period represents an important milestone in their educational journey, and we encourage all students to give their best effort in their studies and revision. Our dedicated teachers have been providing guidance and support throughout the year, ensuring our students are well-prepared for these assessments. We wish all our Year 10 and 11 students the very best of luck and remind them to reach out to their teachers or the student support team if they require any assistance during this period. Please ensure that communication from the relevant heads of school is shared with your sons around expectations during the examination period.

Semester 2: Commencing Week 9

Semester 2 will commence in Week 9 of this term. For many subjects, this shall have little impact. Semester based studies at this time shall change. This marks an opportunity to set new goals and embrace new challenges. Our dedicated teaching staff will continue to provide engaging and enriching learning experiences to support the academic growth of every student. As we embark on Semester 2, let's approach it with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence.

Warm regards

Tom

Kelty Resource Centre

Ingrid Perkins - Actng Director of Library and Information Services.

The KRC recognised National Reconciliation Week with a video display entitled "There are Four 'As' in Ballarat." The short video presentation highlights significant features of country, language, and story from the Wadawurrung region. This display is a wonderful way to appreciate and honour the culture and history of Indigenous Australians.

In addition to the video, the KRC featured a collection of Indigenous literature with a particular emphasis on First Nations' Fiction, which will be highlighted during the upcoming WIRED activities. The book display is one way to celebrate Indigenous Australian literature and authors. It provides an opportunity to explore stories and perspectives that reflect the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures.

The KRC's student led decoration project was a beautiful tree display where students cut out the shape of their hands to form the leaves of a tree. Ms. Pritchard and Ms. Clements played a crucial role in the project's creative contribution, which included a large silhouette of a tree trunk where the "leaves" were attached to symbolise unity and reconciliation within the school community. The display is a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging the past and working together for a better future.

Lastly, we would like to encourage our community to visit our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander RAP Libguide which is a valuable digital platform for accessing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander resources.

Arts

Jeanean Pritchard, Head of Arts Faculty

TOP ARTS

This week, VCE Art Making & Exhibiting students embarked on an inspirational journey as they visited the renowned Top Arts exhibition at the Ian Potter Centre at Federation Square. Top Arts provided a platform to showcase the extraordinary works of art and folios that achieved outstanding results in VCE Art or VCE Studio Arts 2022.

Our students became immersed in a world of creativity and experienced the innovative and imaginative ideas brought to life by the 2022 VCE art students. The exhibition unveiled creative processes, personal expression, and skilful use of materials across a diverse range of media and encourages our students to push the boundaries of their own creative endeavours.

As part of the excursion, our students also had the privilege of visiting the National Gallery of Victoria, home to some of our most famous pieces from Australia’s national art collection. This opportunity allowed our students to appreciate art from a range of different historical and cultural contexts.

The day spent at the Top Arts exhibition and the National Gallery of Victoria proved to be an invaluable experience for our students. We commend our students for their enthusiastic engagement and exemplary behaviour throughout the day. We extend our gratitude to Arts staff members, Matthew Taylor and Janine Clements, and the organizers of the Top Arts exhibition, for providing our students with this enriching opportunity.

Sport

Football

Football

ACC Round 4

SPC V St. Bernard’s

SPC 6. 10. 46 Def St. Bernard’s 3. 5. 23

Goals kickers: M. Boyer 2, E. McKercher, Z. Russell, J. Huxtable, O. Hannaford.

Best Players: H. Charleson, J. Kovacevic, O. Hannaford, E. McKercher, J. Huxtable, A. Caldow.

Needing a response after losing the last two rounds to Parade and Whitefriars, the boys travelled to St. Bernard’s, Essendon, in what was a must win match. A loss would all but end our chance of finishing in the top 4, a win would see us live to fight another day. With a number of key players still injured and some others battling illness, we still took in a strong side with six changes being made from last week. With no traffic delay’s, we were greeted with sunshine and a strong breeze to one end on the smallish St. Bernard’s Oval.

Skipper for the day, Josh Huxtable, won the toss and kicked with breeze. The first 12 minutes of the quarter saw St. Bernard’s bottle the play up and create lots of stoppages. Our decision making forward of centre was letting us down as we wasted some inside 50 entries. The last 8 minutes saw us slam on 4 goals, Marty Boyer with 2, the main target. Our attack on the ball and man was excellent, which was lead by key midfielders Ethan McKercher, Harry Charleson and Josh Huxtable. Our defenders, mainly Jack O’Brien, Paddy Hannaford and Jack Kovacevic, stood firm and kept our opponents scoreless.

We had to adapt our method in the 2^nd quarter as we were kicking into the wind. This meant getting numbers back, with ruckman Gus Toll playing a kick behind the play and kicking shorter and wider in the back half. The boys were also instructed to create more stoppages to take time off the clock. For the majority of the quarter the boys did this well, to restrict our opposition to only 2 goals for the quarter, as we lead by 15 points at the main break.

We didn’t make the most of the breeze in the third quarter as we turned the ball over by foot too much. This was partly poor decision making and execution but also a result of the pressure being applied by St. Bernard’s. We were 2^nd to the ball and were getting beaten around the stoppages. Archie Caldow was attacking the ball hard and was having a big influence on the match, Tom Conlan continued to get his hands on the ball in close, Ollie Hannaford was at his industrious best and Jackson Penny was contributing at both ends of the ground as his magnet got thrown around. We took a 26 point lead into the last break.

The boys accepted the challenge that was thrown at them by sticking to the method kicking into the breeze in the last quarter. Jack Kovacevic was the spare man behind the ball as Connor Weidemann started forward but then rolled back to take Jack’s man. This enabled Jack to take a number of intercept marks and set up many attacking plays. Fred Valpied finished the game off strongly, with his kicking efficiency a real feature. Paddy Hannaford refused to lose a one on one battle down back while Zac Russell continued to provide plenty of bite around the contest, both at ground level and aerially. We didn’t get any scoreboard reward for our effort, but it was pleasing to control the play in general for the last 20 minutes. The win keeps us in the hunt for a top 4 spot with a win against St. Bede’s (at home) next week a must.

Gavin Webb

1^st XVIII Coach

BAS Round 4

SPC v BCC

SPC 7 5 47 defeated by BCC 6 16 52

Goal kicker: S Robinson 3, S McDonald, J Vereker, C Scoble, J Keyte

Best Players: L Koliba, J Keyte, L Abrams, N Bennett, O Murray, P O’Brien, S Robinson

Finally, the BAS 1st Football XVIII boys got a chance to have a hit out against a quality opposition in BCC. The strong winds were going to make it an even tougher contest with the Northern end heavily affected. Sam Litras, captaining for the day, unfortunately lost the toss which had us kicking into the wind. However, we knew if we could start strong and keep their score down, we would be coming home with the wind in the final quarter.

Although the scoreboard in the first quarter did not reflect a good quarter, as a playing group we were content with the start. Clarendon kicking with the wind had a major advantage on us, but our backline held up well. As a defensive unit we were extremely competitive holding them to 2 goals 7 behinds. Lachie Abrams had the big job on their key forward and despite being on the smaller side, he contested well and brought the ball to ground, and let the smaller backs in Lachie Pritchard and Campbell Lloyd go to work. These boys all contested fiercely were clean when clearing the ball out.

The second quarter saw the boys go to work with the wind now in our favour, we had some brilliant passages of play, with our backs, midfield and forwards combining down the field to set up some good opportunities. However, at times, we were not using the open side of the ground to our advantage. Strahan Robinson, although being double teamed, took some spectacular contested marks and capitalised with a couple of goals to put us back in the hunt with only a point 4 difference going into half time.

The midfield group were challenged at the break to play a tough brand of one-on-one contested football, they responded in the third quarter really locking on creating repeated stoppages and grinded it out. Defenders holding up well again with Sam Litras playing as a spare to help the defence out as College had the wind. Again, holding them up with only 2 goals and 6 behinds. We took some learning from that quarter, in that we need to focus on our kick outs, particularly kicking to the defensive side if we get stuck in those conditions. The boys were able to adjust, and we were able to get some good plays happening, with Paddy O’Brien, Ned Bennett and Ollie Murray providing some quality run off half back. Linc Kobila, a contested beast in the midfield, took a spectacular mark up forward but unfortunately was unable to capitalise. Strahan Robinson kicking a goal to keep us in the hunt leading into the final quarter.

We went into the final term, with the breeze behind us, only trailing by 14 points and eventually hit the lead with about 4 minutes remaining, with an outstanding snap from Jordy Keyte from the boundary only to have that taken away cruelly with about a minute to go. It could be argued that Strahan Robinson again came to the rescue with a heavily contested pack mark about 30m out directly in front straight from the centre clearance, but umpire made the correct call calling play on given it came off a few sets of hands – this would have resulted in a shot after the siren, for the win, had it been paid.

Boys played a tremendous game, showed a lot of fight and quality skill in the tough conditions. The group should be proud of their efforts and look forward to hitting the track and bouncing back next week against Ballarat Grammar.

Intermediate BAS Football Round 4

Result: SPC Green 4.4.28 defeated by Ballarat Grammar 9.4.58

SPC Green Best: Henry Faulkner, Noah Svanosio, Tesloach Lual, Sam Olang Nending & Charlie Elliot

SPC Green Goal Kickers: Clancy Tracy 2, Cooper Besler & Sam Olang Nending

SPC Green started brightly and took the lead through Clancy Tracy, who booted two goals in the opening minutes. However, Ballarat Grammar responded quickly and took control of the contest in the second quarter, kicking four goals to none. SPC Green fought back in the third quarter, kicking two goals to one, but it wasn’t enough to rein in Ballarat Grammar.

The best players for SPC Green were Henry Faulkner, Noah Svanosio, Tesloach Lual, Sam Olang Nending, and Charlie Elliot. Lual was strong in the ruck and around the ground, Svanosio was lively up across half back, Nending was dangerous in attack, and Elliot was busy in the midfield. A standout performance was by Hunter Knight, who initially missed the bus to BG, so he ran from SPC to BG.

St Pats Blue 18-13-121 def Phoenix College 2-2-14

On a cold Tuesday afternoon, the Phoenix boys arrived late from their bus trip, across town. The blues were trying to keep warm by running laps of the square.

When the ball was bounced the Blues leapt into gear with Finn Russell dominating the ruck taps, setting the ball into the forward line on multiple occasions. Max Frazer was in hot form as he was the recipient of 3 of these goals in the first term alone. Others to get amongst the charge were Zavier Nunn, Zeb Evans, Jock McDougall and Jax Coon kicking majors. The ball was moving freely both ways as the Phoenix had plenty of the ball but were not converting. 6-4-40 to 1-1 7.

The second quarter was much the same with the Blues dominating on the scoreboard, with Russell, Will Quick and Walt Orwin all kicking majors. The support and movement of the ball was noticeable by the Blues with Kai Watkins, Teddy Farrell, and Mitch Chalmers all racking up possessions giving the forward line many opportunities. At half time we were up 12-6-78 to 1-2 8

After half time the Blues boys became a little goal hungry and at one time our forward line had 30 players parked in there with wingers and half backs all trying to get their name on the score sheet. Finn Russell continued to gather kicks with a couple of strong marks around the ground with Chalmers repelling many forward thrusts, and Evans quick running around the ground a highlight.

The scoring dried up in the second half as the sun went behind the houses making it harder to see who was on the other side of the ground. After a 50-metre penalty gifting the Phoenix team their second goal the time keeper pulled the pin.

Best players:

Russell, Evans, Farrell, Z Nunn, Frazer, Watkins

Goals:

Frazer, Coon 3, Watkins, McKinley 2, Evans, Nunn, McDougall, Orwin, Macnamara, Russell, Quick, Gunser 1

Year 8 SPC Green Galvin Football 2023 Match Analysis 24 May 2023

SPC Green 3-6-24 was defeated by Ballarat Clarendon College 7-13-55

SPC Green best players: Vaughan; Scott; Cook; Antonello; Casey; Ide; Lee.

When three-time Richmond Football Club premiership coach, Damien Hardwick, announced he was stepping away from the game with a year-and-a-half to go on his generous contract earlier this week, there was much discussion. In one forum, current Collingwood Football Club coach, Craig McRae, spoke of a recent interaction he had shared with Hardwick. Hardwick had revealed to McRae the impact losses had on him.

Hardwick had said losses cut deep. He added there was the perennial concern following a loss that another win would never be experienced. These comments revealed Hardwick’s dedication to his profession and his club; these comments revealed a desire to succeed.

Regardless of the activity in which one undertakes, there should be an undeniable commitment to give one’s best and a desire to achieve, to gain something of value from the quest. Feeling disappointment as a result of underachieving and a loss is not something of which to be ashamed; such sentiments illustrate a degree of care and dedication.

Without question, Wednesday’s loss to Ballarat Clarendon College hurt.

Admittedly, the side adorned in the red jumpers was clearly physically bigger and stronger. There was evident talent possessed amongst the opposing bunch too. Undoubtedly, Clarendon had the advantage of a significant wind in the first term, an advantage on which the hosts capitalised.

Notably, SPC Green’s fightback in the final three-quarters of the game was admirable, managing more scoring shots than the opposition in that time. However, the defeat, largely stemming from a dominant first quarter by Clarendon and, concerningly, a poor output from the visitors, hit hard.

As a SPC Green looks to regroup for the tail end of the BAS season, there needs to a renewed focus on starting games strongly; engaging in the game throughout its duration; being brave and forceful in the contest and in every contest; not going to ground when it matters; appreciating the importance of defending; taking on an active, rather than passive, role on the field; heeding advice and instruction; and adopting a mindset of selflessness, determination, industry, courage, and grit.

There is much anticipation to see who will rise to the occasion.

Mr J Couzens

Year 8 SPC Football Gold v BGS Match Report

On Wednesday night saw the boys play their 4th game of the Year 8 Football Program. It was SPC Gold matched up against Ballarat Grammar School. After an indifferent 1^st quarter, which wasn’t helped by the blustery conditions and small oval, the boys were able to turn it around and produce another solid team performance. We were able to gradually draw away from a very competitive and tough Grammar outfit after quarter time with some excellent passages of play by the boys especially in a very dominant 2^nd quarter. We were able to keep up the pressure throughout, thanks to the great ball movement initiated by the engine room of Ruot Lual, Jet D’Arcy, Xavier Cummins, Lachie Petrie, Charlie Salter, Xavier Johnstone and Max Wilkie. Special mention to our Captain for the day, Charlie Geddes who put his body on the line numerous times for his teammates – Well Done Skipper. Congratulations to all the boys who played the game in a great spirit and were very respectful to the opposition and the umpire – WELL DONE BOYS!! We look forward to another great night – weather and football wise, next week (fingers crossed) as we go up against SPC WHITE on the HILL OVAL for our next challenge!!!

FINAL SCORES :

SPC White : 1.3.9 7.7.49 9.7.61 14.7.91

Goalkickers : Jet D’Arcy 4, Xavier Cummins 3, Caden Quick 2, Ruot Lual 1, Riley Huebner 1, Xavier Johnstone 1, Ned Porter 1 and Don Watson 1.

Best Players : Ollie Elliott, Josh Elliott, Xav Cummins, Jet D’Arcy, Charlie Geddes, Lachie Petrie.

Ballarat Grammar School : 1.0.6 1.1.7 1.1.7 1.1.7

Junior Football Round 4 SPC White v Ballarat High School

SPC White 4.9.33 def BHS 4.2.26

Eager to get their first win of the season, the SPC White boys travelled to Ballarat High with just 16 players thanks to a couple of last minute call ups in Will McCormack and Kane McInerney. The two boys ended up being extremely pivotal to the team performance, setting the tone early with some terrific midfield craft, alongside Levi Hynes and ruckman, Lachlan Van der Horst. The breeze blowing directly across the ground meant the ball spent most of the day on one side of the ground. Mr Jenks was required to step up to umpire duties, leaving Miss Booth and assistant Mr Moodley to take full control of the side… they certainly did so in an impressive way, putting the likes of Koby Madigan and co-captain James Donovan-Clancy up the ground to have an impact on the contest. The SPC boys led at each break thanks to some consistent performances by the on ballers previously mentioned, as well as the ever-reliable liveliness of Nick Turner, breaking tackles, Dusty style on a number of occasions. Things were getting tight in the last quarter with BHS fighting back with the momentum kicking to the scoring end for the day in the last, they needed 2 goals in the last to take the game. The SPC White boys were not going to let that happen. The fight and desparation of Paddy Stute who laid countless tackles, along with the run and carry of Levi Hynes, running the ball out of the backline, showing his well-known athletic ability. The lads secured the win after BHS had a chance to get within a goal late, missing a goal directly in front that would of put the SPC White boys right under the pump. Although, the fight and midfield dominance may have seen our boys get the ball inside 50 and lock it in for the final 2 minutes. This was not required and the smarts of Jackson Goddard kicking in long to the boundary ensured we’d get our first win of the season. ‘Jacko’ was solid all day, hardly losing a one-on-one and hitting every target when given the chance. Great win!

Best Players: Will McCormack, Levi Hynes, Lachlan Van der Horst, Kane McInerney, Jackson Goddard.

Soccer

ACC Soccer SPC v De La Salle

Wednesday this week saw St Pats First XI Soccer team line up at home against the current league leaders, De La Salle College. De La Salle had won every game of the season thus far, and looked to be a strong squad from the very first minute.

In what was a hotly contested first half, our opponents took a two goal lead that Matt Michalik managed to cut in half for St Pats before half time, leaving us 2-1 down. The second half again saw De La Salle extend their lead to two goals, and the game was starting to look beyond reach.

With the commencement for the school’s lunch time, however, a flood of St Pats students flooded to support the home team, and provided a very visible morale boost to the squad. The final 25 minutes of the game saw a remarkable comeback, with goals from Rex Van Berkel, Manny Hontzogloy, and a last minute winner from Sean Weigall, sending the home crowd into delirium. Final score was St Pats: 4, De La Salle: 3

Junior Soccer

An undermanned SPC Blue team took on Clarendon College at Shed Oval this week. In windy conditions the team fought hard but were unlucky in conceding two early goals. Strong leadership from Eli Cudia, Luis Maldonado and Charlie Pope saw the defence regain its footing, conceding only one more goal before half-time. With the wind at their backs SPC Blue played a more aggressive attacking style in the second half with Jack Boyd, Jake Remington and Cyrus Fordham constantly asking questions of the keeper. Jake managed to score early in the half to bring the margin back to two goals. In the end Clarendon managed to score a final goal late, resulting in a 4 – 1 loss for SPC Blue. A special mention to Chandan Nayak and Pritesh Suresh who played their first game for SPC Blue and showed their passion for soccer throughout the game. Next week, a hopefully healthier, SPC Blue heads to Morshead Park to take on Ballarat High.

Junior Soccer Results this season

Round 1 3/5/2023 SPC Green V SPC Blue @ Shed Oval

SPC Green 5 defeated SPC Blue 1

Goals

Mitch Bassett 2

Aiden Atherton 1

Lincoln Chetcuti 1

Harry Waight 1

Round 2 10/5/2023 SPC Green V BCC Black @ Shed Oval

SPC Green 13 defeated BCC Black 3

Goals

Kade Howden 2

Liam Riding 2

Benjamin Cowling 2

Mitchell Bassett 2

Lachie Rowse 1

Efron Sino 1

Finn Laverty 1

Round 3 17/5/2023 SPC Green V Ballarat High School @ Shed Oval

SPC Green 11 defeated BHS 3

Goals

Benjamin Cowling 4

Kade Howden 4

Finn Laverty 2

Harry Waight 1

Round 4 24/5/2023 SPC Green V Phoenix College @Morshead Park

SPC Green 3 defeated Phoenix College 1

Goals

Kade Howden 1

Aiden Atherton 1

Benjamin Cowling 1

Basketball

On the 19th May our Intermediate A and B basketball teams represented St Patrick's College at Werribee in the VCC competition.

Our teams played with passion, cheering their teammates and celebrating their wins.

The B team, comprising mostly year 9 students, battled in Division 1 against mostly year 10 students, eventually winning one game on the buzzer thanks to Ethan Matherson. The other three games were narrow defeats (under 5 points) but the team never gave up.

The A team showed their strength defeating all other schools convincingly. They eventually won the day and the team has now progressed to the finals in early June.

It was a privilege to work with such confident, hard working and fun young men.

Bring on the finals!

Josh Ebbels - Basketball co-ordinator.

Rugby

St Patrick’s College 1^st XV vs St Kevin’s College 2^nd XV

May 13 2023

After defeating Scotch College very convincingly the 1^st XV was full of confidence going into the St Kevin’s game. The loss of Jack Burton and Will Card threw a spanner in the works but it provided opportunities for others to show their wares outside of their more familiar positions.

Max West moved to Scrum Half and Oskar Kaletsch stepped up to play fullback. It also gave Will Charles the opportunity to debut in the number 6 jersey.

The weather was perfect as play commenced. The St Pats boys were dominant early and were playing with controlled aggression. The SPC ruck was being secured well and our runners off the pod and through the backline were running with assurance and continually breaking through the gain line, it was only a matter of time before the dam broke. Ziggy Teh-White was the man in the right spot at the right time and finished off a nice team try. Oscar Dixon slotted the extras.

From the restart SPC stepped up a gear. Oscar Dixon and Oscar Watkins were proving to be a handful in the centres and Aussie McIlwaine was also running strongly and securely. St Kevin’s had to work hard to stop the St Pats run but were constantly moving backwards. Year 10 student Hugh Jackson was showing why he deserved his spot at No 8. His offload at the tackle put others into space and it wasn’t long before his turn came. Jackson got on the end of some fine play by Dixon and McIlwaine, he took the ball 15 metres out from his line and expertly used his fend to deny the St Kevin’s defence and dived over on the right wing.

Oscar Dixon then flushed a beautiful kick to secure the two points.

St Kevin’s got themselves back into the game with some fine work by their forwards and a from some ill discipline by St Pats. SPC were encroaching on the offside line at the breakdown and the referee was having nothing of it. Time and time again St Pats were penalised which gifted opportunity to St Kevin’s and to their credit they were able to capitalise scoring a barge over try just before half time.

Half Time SPC 14 – SKC 5

St Pats began strongly in the second half. The line speed defence of the Ballarat boys was working formidable and the forward pack was dominant in the lineout and scrum. Pearse, Morrison and Charles, in particular, were hitting rucks with ferocious intent and breaking up the opportunities for St Kevin’s to get access to clean ball at the breakdown. Oskar Kaletsch was making the most of his limited opportunities at full back but proved to be very solid in his ability to cover tackle and his ball carrying speed worried the opposition.

Penalties continued to dog the home side and many scoring opportunities went begging because of simple errors primarily, again, at the breakdown. Time and time again St Kevin’s were able to kick themselves out of vulnerable positions. Morrison and Pearse were able to force turnovers for SPC which enabled them to push forward again. The play developed into a bit of a stalemate for a period of time and after far too many indiscretions the home side had a player sent off for multiple team penalties. SPC continued to dominate with a man down and were two down when Tipiloura was shown a yellow card for a no arms tackle. It wasn’t until an SPC lineout on the opposition 22 gave our forwards a chance to shine.

The forward pack could sense an opportunity and demanded the ball through multiple phases before Toby Pearse busted through the now tiring defence to score the first try of the second half.

The next try had a familiar ring to it. A lineout, off the opposite wing this time, was expertly won by Lachlan Brodie, the ball went through the hands of West to McIlwaine who waltzed through and dived over beneath the posts.

St Kevin’s worked hard to put some respectability back into the scoreline. They were continuing to win penalties and several times they looked like crossing the line but were beaten back by outstanding SPC defensive efforts. Liam Morrisons intent to pilfer and ability to do so was a highlight in the second half.

The final try of the game was undoubtedly the best. Dixon took the ball just outside his own 22 and ran with real conviction, his composure was first class as he stepped around two defenders in quick succession and even caused them to collide with each other. Crossing the opposition 22 he was met by the fullback who did a good job in his covering of the runaway centre, but Dixon simply drew him in and fed the ball to Tipiloura on the wing who ran the last 10 metres to score a great try. Dixon’s effort was outstanding but credit must go to Tipiloura and Vivian – Fagan who had run the length of the field in support. Tipiloura had been in great position all game and it was pleasing by all involved to see him get some reward for his hard work.

Dixon’s final kick was the only blemish in an otherwise outstanding display off the tee.

Overall it was a very solid effort by the St Pats boys, however, the penalty count is cause for concern.

Final Score SPC 33 def SKC 5

Tries: Teh-White, Jackson, Pearse, McIlwaine, Tipiloura.

Conversions: Dixon 4/5