Sport News
Mr Derek Lennon
Welcome back to all for what will be another busy term of sport.
The holidays presented an exciting experience for our rugby league players. With the 2025 Confraternity Carnival hosted in Rockhampton the boys had a wonderful touring experience. The Confraternity Carnival is the premier rugby league competition for Catholic and independent secondary schools in Queensland, held annually since 1980. Administered by the Queensland Rugby League and run by the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Rugby League, the competition is a week-long carnival that this year saw over 1,000 students from up to 54 schools take part this year.
The teams are split into three divisions. Marist are in division one. The boys played valiantly throughout the week in a tough pool against traditional rugby league schools. A first up win against Aquinas (18-10) was followed by a loss to St Brendan’s 26-8. Progressing to the top play-off division came down to the final pool match against Ignatius Park. With a minute to go we were hunting for a try near the Iggy Park line to take the win but it was not to be and we lost 20-10 after a late try. This put us in the Bob Lindner Shield play-offs and a quarter-final win against St Pats (36-6) gave us hope of retaining the shield. Unfortunately an 18-10 loss the St Mary’s Toowoomba ended the run. The boys were very brave throughout the week and did the college proud with their efforts. Congratulations to the boys involved and thank you to the staff involved, Mr Apps, Mr Williams, Mr Grealy, Mr Winchester and Mr Gough.
Term 3 of AIC sport presents challenges for us at Marist. Each of the competitions on offer, tennis, rugby league and basketball are limited in team numbers. This is an AIC decision not a Marist decision to limit teams and we do find it frustrating as a school, particularly in basketball which has seen significant growth in Australia over the last 10 years.
Tennis, track and field, basketball, hockey and rugby league training for all teams from Year 5-12 has now commenced. Please check the college app for training details.
Over the coming weeks, coaches and teachers will be personally asking some of our talented student-athletes to join the AIC Track and Field training program. There is no doubt that our College community gives greatly to each of its students. It would be a great shame to see our best athletes, musicians or perhaps academic students not use their gifts to benefit the College and to better themselves as we strive to maintain our position as the premier AIC school in track and field.
We understand the need for a balanced education and we do not want to over-burden our students, but we want Marist’s best to shine. If there are issues surrounding a student’s workload which impedes him from participating, please contact the Sports Office on sports@marash.qld.edu.au.
Coordinators for Term 3 Sports
- Basketball – Ms Samantha Davids – davidss@marash.qld.edu.au
- Tennis – Mr Andrew Ward MCATennis@marash.qld.edu.au
- Rugby League – Mr Lachlan Gough – goughl@marash.qld.edu.au
- Track and Field – Mr Richard Graham grahamr@marash.qld.edu.au
- Hockey – Ms Kathryn Badini badinik@marash.qld.edu.au
For all enquiries pertaining to these sports please contact the respective coordinator.
This week and weekend we have a number of sporting trials occurring against other AIC schools. All details can be found on the College app later in the week. This will be a further opportunity for coaches to assess players and adjust teams. I would expect some movement of players between teams in readiness for next weekend’s Round 1 fixtures. Coaches are instructed to choose their teams each week based on attendance, player performance and attitude.
Uniform
All players are expected to train in Marist apparel and play in the correct college playing uniform for the chosen sport. Please see the uniform shop if you need any new items once teams have been finalised. A reminder that in 2025 all uniforms from before the current range have been retired and boys will need to purchase current garments.
Socks is an area that is still a challenge for us. There is a clear plan for socks in sporting contest. Rugby, football, rugby league, AFL and hockey all wear the long “football” style royal blue sock with the gold cuff, basketball and volleyball wear the royal blue MCA crew socks and track and field, cross country and tennis wear the white MCA crew socks.
Boys are also expected to wear either the Marist blue training or their playing kit to training sessions as directed by their coach or coordinator.
Absences from Training and Matches
When committing to play a sport for a season it is the college expectation that the activity will be given the highest priority. Absences from training and games lets down your coaches, your teammates and your college. From time to time absences are unavoidable with illness and significant family events and we understand these. However, clear communication, with as much notice as possible is required. Boys in Years 8-12 should take responsibility for communicating this themselves by emailing their coach and year co-ordinator explaining why they are absent from training or a game.
Wet Weather
The college manages our fields. This is different to many club sports, where the local council manages the facilities and are conscious of wear and tear with less resources to manage and more teams using the fields for longer periods of time than schools. Our aim is to train wherever possible and we will only cancel training and games if it is dangerous, such as lightning or water pooling on fields, or if it has been consistently raining and the fields are showing significant wear and tear.
Cancellations are communicated using the college app. For morning training if we have posted the notice before 10pm the night before we will assume everyone has checked the app. If the notice is posted after 10pm coaching staff will still arrive even if training is off and provide supervision for any students who turn up. For afternoon training sessions our preference is to cancel before 12pm to assist with transport arrangements after school but sometimes late storms come in that cause very late cancellations.
Track and Field
Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field
Mr Rob Martin – Head Coach, Track and Field
Safety Notice | Hayden Oval
Attention all students / parents / visitors.
Track and Field training (discus, shot put and javelin) has commenced on Hayden Oval for Term 3.
At any time you are walking across Hayden Oval or wanting to enter the tennis courts area, please adhere to the following safety guidelines: Look for Bunting, Signs, and Witches Hats: These markers are placed to indicate restricted areas.
Safe Route: To move between the bus stop and tennis courts, please use the road up to the new primary building and the stairs closest to the tennis shed. Please do not walk across Hayden Oval.
Your cooperation is essential in ensuring everyone's safety during training sessions. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Marist Track and Field | Welcome Back….
Welcome back to Term 3! We are excited to officially launch our 2025 Track and Field program as we aim for our 11th successive Secondary AIC Championship and our 5th successive Primary AIC Championship. This season promises to be another exciting journey of training, competition and teamwork.
Led by Head Coach, Mr Rob Martin, a number of our coaching staff have already been working with the students in preparation for the season. They will be joined by a fantastic group of coaches helping each athlete reach their full potential and achieve their personal bests.
The Marist College students have consistently showcased their talent and dedication, and we are confident that they will continue to deliver that again this year. Thank you to those students who were able to attend the holiday training program – this will provide you with an excellent foundation.
Term 3 training sessions began yesterday and will now run consistently through the term. Internal meets and AIC warm up events will also be held on a regular basis. Please follow the Parent Orbit for all communication regarding the Track and Field program.
DRESS: Marist sport shirt / T&F singlet / House shirt, Marist sports shorts, white or blue socks.
Monday and Wednesday (ALL students): 3:30-5:00pm
Tuesday (Primary long jump and hurdles): 6:45am-8:10am
Wednesday (Secondary hurdles): 7:10-8:20am
Friday (Primary high jump): 6:45-8:00am
Sunday (ALL students welcome): 3:15-4:30pm
Let’s make Term 3 a time of hard work, growth, enjoyment, and memorable achievements.
Good luck to all our coaches and students!
Marist Track and Field | Term 3
Thanks to those students who were available to begin training yesterday. It was fantastic to see everyone refreshed after their break and excited for a new term ahead. Following the Track and Field training session, we gathered as a group for a BBQ. This was a great way to kick start the Track and Field program, and bring together students from all year levels along with our wonderful coaching group.
Marist Track and Field | Sign On
Please go to Parent Orbit and see information regarding sign on. All students who wish to be involved in the Track and Field program are asked to sign up via the student café. Once your son/s have signed up all parents or caregivers MUST approve the signup via Parent Lounge and edit or update any medical details.
This assists the College in organising the appropriate number of coaching staff and to deliver the necessary resources.
NOTE – If your son isn’t registered, you will NOT receive any information via the Parent Orbit regarding the Track and Field program, including schedules and relevant information.
Marist Track and Field | Camp (SAVE THE DATE)
The Track and Field Camp is a vital component of the team’s preparation for the AIC Championship. Over 2½ days, students will receive high-level coaching and mentoring from an exceptional team of specialists including National and Olympic-level coaches across various track and field disciplines.
Attendance at the camp is by invitation only and invitations will be sent to selected students in late August. Selection is based on a range of factors, including performance, attitude, attendance and team composition.
This camp provides an outstanding opportunity for students to refine their skills, build team camaraderie, and gain valuable insights from elite-level coaches as we prepare to defend both our AIC Secondary and AIC Primary Championship trophies.
NOTE – a small group of Year 6 students will be invited to attend the Friday session at UQ. This group will be made aware closer to the time.
Camp Information
Dates: Thursday 18 – Saturday 20 September 2025
Venues: Sleeman Sports Complex (Accommodation) / UQ Track and Field (Training and Performance)
Marist Track and Field | September Holiday Meets
During the September holidays, the College will lead two Track and Field practice meets.
WHEN: Thursday 25 September and Thursday 2 October
TIME: 8:00 – 11:45am
WHERE: UQ Sporting Precinct
Further information will be provided closer to the time.
Sunday Sessions | Track and Field Training
This year, Marist College will be aiming to win its 11th successive Secondary AIC Track and Field Championship and its 5th successive Primary AIC Track and Field Championship. Achieving this success requires planning, commitment, and effort across the entire year.
At this early stage, the training focus is on Sprints, Hurdles, Throws, and Jump Plyometrics.
For all students wishing to train, Mr Rob Martin will continue running his Sunday training sessions. Please see the details below:
INCLUDED: Running – sprints and jumps / Throws – early pre-season fitness and cross training, along with throwing.
WHEN: Sunday afternoons
WHERE: Hayden Oval
TIME: 3:15-4:45pm
DRESS: Marist sport shirt, Marist sports shorts, white or blue socks.
Marist Track and Field – Social Media
@marist_ashgrove_sports
Marist College has continued to showcase incredible moments in Track and Field again this year, from Year 5 victories to exceptional feats by our Year 12 students, all vividly captured on our social media pages.
Follow us and stay up-to-date with Marist Track and Field on Instagram - @marist_ashgrove_sports.
Marist Rugby Union
Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field
Marist Rugby Union | Social Media
In 2024 the College delivered some wonderful rugby memories through our social media pages. From the smallest bumblebees in Year 5 through to the biggest bumblebees in Year 12, all of it was captured in wonderful colour.
To stay connected with Marist rugby and with all the program’s achievements, please follow our Instagram page @marist_ashgrove_rugby.
Swimming
Over the school holidays, Archer Mellifont and Noah Magoffin proudly represented the College at the Next Wave competition in Canberra. This exciting new initiative from Swimming Australia aims to prepare swimmers eligible for selection on the Australian Junior Team for the Junior Pan Pacific Championships in Canada next year. Both boys performed brilliantly, gaining valuable experience that will serve them well as they prepare for the Australian National Age Championships in April.
We also congratulate Thomas Bedggood on his selection for the prestigious Brisbane Camp, which brings together swimmers within the age bracket for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This was a fantastic opportunity for Thomas to develop alongside some of the region’s most promising young athletes.
Well done to all three boys on their selection for these high-performance programs.
Term 3 swimming is now underway, with many of our students already back in the water preparing for the AIC Swimming Championships in March. While it may feel early, starting this term gives our boys a significant head start on their competition leading into Term 4 and Term 1 – a crucial period where many make their biggest strides towards team selection.
With the pool maintained at a comfortable 28.5 degrees, there’s no need to fear the winter chill! If you’re keen to get back into lessons this term, please contact us at swim@marash.qld.edu.au
Tennis
Mr Andrew Ward - Director of Tennis
Welcome to AIC Tennis Season 2025
Term 3 has arrived—and so has the new tennis season!
Welcome back to all students and parents for what promises to be another exciting chapter in the Marist Tennis program. We hope the break gave everyone a chance to recharge—because we’re ready to hit the ground running.
A Season of Inspiration
From the red clay of Roland Garros to the grass courts of Wimbledon, we’ve just witnessed world-class tennis at its finest. Once again, the top two men in the world reminded us that elite performance comes down to preparation, commitment, and execution.
Every swing, every step, every shot was a result of tireless training. Let’s bring that same focus and intent to our season. Whether it’s your first year or your last, this is your opportunity to represent your school and elevate your game.
Trials Recap & Team Announcements
A huge thank you to all students for a strong and competitive Term 2 trial period. With our first trial matches kicking off this weekend, positioned teams (A1 to B5, up to 9 players each) will be announced this week.
Team selections will be released every Thursday via Orbit.
Players not selected each week will be placed in our Shadow Team and continue training. With injuries and illness inevitable, these players will be called upon to represent as needed.
All AIC coaching is free for students committed to playing Saturday matches.
(Please note: These sessions are not for students who only wish to train and not play in AIC competition.)
Congratulations to everyone selected in this year’s squads—your dedication has earned you a place.
Super Grade and League Tennis
Super League matches also begin this weekend. Please check your team's draw carefully:
- Super Grade: 1:30 – 5:30 PM (Divisions 3 & 5)
- Super League: 2:00 – 5:30 PM (Divisions 2 & 6)
Good luck to all players competing this term.
MCA Tennis Memberships
Just a quick reminder that these are due for renewal for the next tennis financial membership year.
Term 3 AIC Training Schedule
All training sessions are compulsory for selected team members and Shadow Squad players. Please arrive on time, prepared and ready to train with intent.
Years 5 & 6
Monday and Wednesday | 6:45 – 8:15 AM
Years 7 & 8
Tuesday | 6:45 – 8:15 AM
Thursday | 3:30 – 5:00 PM
7A & 8A only | Friday 3:30 – 4:30 PM
Years 9 & 10
Tuesday | 3:30 – 5:00 PM
Thursday | 6:45 – 8:15 AM
9A & 10A only | Friday 3:30 – 4:30 PM
Opens (1st–4th Teams)
Monday and Wednesday | 3:30 – 5:00 PM
1st and 2nd Teams | Friday 3:30 – 5:00 PM
Shadow Squad (All Year Levels)
Friday | 6:45 – 8:15 AM
Training for players not yet selected but remaining ready to step in.
Key Dates
Term 3
Monday 14 July – AIC Training Begins (Pupil-Free Day)
Monday 11 & Tuesday 12 August – Marist Open & Primary Singles Championships | 3:30 – 7:30 PM
(Includes sausage sizzle for all players)
Tuesday 16 September – AIC Break-Up Party | 3:30 – 6:00 PM
(A relaxed afternoon with games and friendly rematches)
September Holiday Camp
Monday 22 – Wednesday 24 September | 8:00 – 11:00 AM
Match play, drills, and fun to wrap up the term and prep for Term 4.
Looking Ahead
Term 4
Tuesday 7 October – Coaching resumes (Pupil-Free Day)
Sunday 23 November – Parent–Son Tournament & Christmas Break-Up | 2:00 – 6:00 PM
BBQ from 5:00 PM to celebrate the end of a great year.
Holiday Camps (8:00 – 11:00 AM)
15–17 December
22–24 December
12–14 January
19–21 January
Ideal for players looking to stay sharp and prepare for a strong start to 2026.
2026 Term 1
Monday 2 February – Term 1 coaching begins
Let’s carry the momentum forward, continue building on our culture, and enjoy everything the Marist Tennis program has to offer.
Wilson Merchandise
We’re fully stocked with the latest Wilson racquets, and as always, our members receive the best prices in Brisbane.
From racquets and shoes to strings and accessories, we can order any item from Wilson’s full range.
For enquiries, orders, or bookings:
Phone: 0437 449 523
Email: mcatennis@marash.qld.edu.au
Thank you for your continued support of Marist Tennis. We’re looking forward to a successful, rewarding, and enjoyable season. See you on the court.