Sport News

Mr Derek Lennon

Round 4 saw a broad range of sports played, with AFL on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning, cricket all day Saturday and volleyball across the day as well. In AFL the 1sts were valiant going down against a very good side, in cricket our 1st XI put on an impressive performance, some might say clinical, defeating St Laurence’s College comfortably, highlighted Year 9 Charlie Barnett talking five wickets on debut. Our 1st VI, despite not getting the result were moral victors after a tough start to the season, not winning a set, the team showed their true ability in a tight five-setter, going down 15-12 in the fifth to lose to premiership contender Lauries.

It is unfortunate that I need to highlight this but we had a poor weekend last week from a conduct and respect point of view. This involved players, coaches and spectators. I must remind our entire Marist community that we have both our own Marist values that guide us and also a code of conduct from the AIC to comply with.

At no point should players be retaliating or verballing, pushing or striking an opponent, let the scoreboard do your talking and turn the other cheek if you are provoked. At no time should coaches be complaining or remonstrating with officials, regardless of the decision, we must model the behaviour we want to see from the boys. At no time should parents and spectators be confronting opposition school staff, complaints and concerns should be addressed with our staff who, if warranted will take the matter up with the association and the opposing school. At no point should parents be confronting or abusing Marist staff over selections.

The AIC code of conduct is attached for your reference.

This weekend we take on St Edmund’s College along with a large number of supplementary matches. Please make sure you check the draw carefully for fixture details.

AIC Code of Conduct V2.0 150224.pdf

District Trial Registration

Closing this week:

Volleyball 13-15 Years- Thursday 5/3 3:00pm
Touch 13-15 Years- Thursday 5/3 :003pm
Rugby Union 14-15 Years- Thursday 5/3 3:00pm
Golf 10-19 Years- Thursday 5/3 3:00pm

AIC Swimming

Good luck to our AIC swim team as they finish off preparations for the AIC championships next Tuesday 10 March at Chandler. The team has shown dedication and hard work as they pursue individual and team success at this prestigious swimming event. My thanks are extended to Director of Swimming, Mr James Boyce, for his meticulous commitment to the team. Good well Marist!

Balancing Sport and Study

At Marist we often speak about forming good young men. One of the clearest places this formation occurs is in the space between the classroom and the sporting field.

For many of our boys, life is full. Training before or after school, weekend fixtures, camps, assessment blocks — it can feel relentless at times. Learning to balance these commitments is not something that just happens; it is a skill that must be developed deliberately.

In sport, boys learn about preparation, discipline and accountability. They understand that if they do not train consistently, performance drops. The same principle applies to their study. Small, regular effort, rather than last-minute cramming builds confidence and competence. When boys begin to see this connection, they start to take greater ownership of both areas.

Practically, balance looks like planning ahead. Using a diary well. Looking at assessment calendars early. Communicating with teachers and coaches when pressure points arise. We consistently reinforce that speaking up early is a strength. It shows maturity and responsibility.

Families are critical in this partnership. Clear routines at home, consistent study times, healthy sleep habits and sensible limits around devices make an enormous difference. Boys thrive when expectations are steady and support is present.

There will always be busy seasons. There will be weeks where energy feels stretched. Our message to the boys is simple: be where your feet are. When you are at training, train well. When you are studying, study with intent. Excellence is built on consistency, not perfection.

Sport should never be an excuse for not meeting an academic commitment and academic commitments should also not be an excuse for not meeting a sporting commitment without prior planning and consultation with staff.

If our students leave Marist knowing how to manage their commitments with integrity, resilience and self-discipline, then both their sport and their study have served their deeper purpose.

Student Achievements

Surf Lifesaving

Cooper Chapman (10R) competed at the recent Queensland Youth Surf Lifesaving Titles. He took out the U15 beach flags, which makes him state champion. He also came 6th in the individual Beach Sprint final, won a Silver in the Team Cameron Relay (4 x athletes - swim, run, board paddle, run) and Bronze in the Brach Sprint relay.

Baseball

Good luck to Samuel Robertson (12E) and Leo McKenna (12G) who will be representing Met North at the Queensland State Championships for baseball this coming weekend.

Cricket

Archer Tallon (11E) is currently representing Met North at the Queensland State Championships for cricket. He has taken 8 wickets across the first 3 matches.

AFL

Mr Cam Mabey - AFL Coordinator

Round 4

Round 4 of the AIC AFL season saw 15 of MCA’s 17 teams take on St Laurence’s. While the Senior School secured just one win from nine aggregate matches, the contest provided valuable lessons — particularly in mindset and composure during these competitive matchups.

1st XVIII 42 for 42 Tribute Match

Round 4’s 1st XVIII match marked the inaugural AFL tribute to the 42 for 42 Foundation. Traditionally recognised in cricket, the initiative honours the 41 Australian soldiers who lost their lives in Afghanistan and supports the families and servicemen and women who continue to feel the impact of their sacrifice.

Private Grant Kirby and Lance Corporal Stjepan “Milo” Milosevic, both Old Boys of MCA and SLC, were among those remembered. The match was played for the Milo/Kirby Cup, with Best on Ground medals presented by their families.

42 for 42 founder and veteran Sean Mulqueen led the pre- and post-match services, Sean is also the coach of the 9As at MCA. We are proud to honour this cause and build on this tradition into the future.

1st XVIII Match Report

Marist had a strong hit out against Laurie’s in a tough contest, going down 51–28. Despite the result, I was proud of the boys in our best team performance of the season, with the boys playing some great footy across the ground. There’s still a bit to improve on, but overall, it was a solid game and we’re still right in the mix for the premiership. We’ve got Eddies next week and we’re looking forward to another big hit out. Then a strong finish against Villa and Padua following that.

Grade of the Round

Well done to the Year 6s who are Round 4s Grade of the Round. Saturday was a great day out for our four Year 6 teams, with the As, Bs and Cs winning their matches, and the Ds being in the lead until a last second goal saw them fall just short. It was Alex Donaghy, Will Barden, Liam Carman and Percy McDowell who led the way for their teams with BOG performances. Thanks to the coaches Cameron Levi, Eric Zupp, Kian Dickman and Noah Clarke for the work they do every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday morning to coach these young superstars.

Sports Canteen Roster

We look forward to welcoming the parents and caregivers from Years 6 and 11 to the sports canteens this week.

Volleyball

https://signup.com/go/HgXuECP

Grandstand

https://signup.com/go/MsHkpbO

Swimming

Mr James Boyce - Director of Swimming

Firstly, I would like to congratulate the 33 boys who represented Marist College Ashgrove at the Met North Trials yesterday. It was a long and demanding day of racing, and the boys conducted themselves exceptionally well. I am currently awaiting confirmation of those who have qualified for the Queensland School State Championships, but regardless of the final outcomes, all boys should be proud of their efforts and the way they represented the College.

Yesterday we also announced the AIC Swimming Team. This is always one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of my role. It is difficult knowing that many deserving swimmers have missed out on selection; however, it is equally rewarding to see those who have demonstrated consistent commitment, dedication, and hard work earn the opportunity to compete for the College on the biggest stage of our swimming calendar.

To the boys who were unsuccessful this year, please do not lose belief. Selection this year has shown that swimmers who committed to training over winter and maintained their focus throughout Terms 1 and 4 have earned their place on the team, some for the first time. Continue to work hard, remain disciplined, and trust the process — your opportunity may be closer than you think.

To those who have been selected, congratulations on your achievement. You have earned this opportunity. However, selection is not the finish line — it is the beginning. We now have a responsibility to honour the efforts of those who missed out by preparing thoroughly and competing with determination and pride.

I wish the entire team the very best for next Tuesday. It is a fantastic opportunity for us as a group. We know it will not be easy, and we will need the support and energy of our Year 12 students cheering us on to help drive us over the line.

Cricket

Mr Matt Millward - Cricket Coordinator

Thank you for your patience and understanding with the wet weather we had last week. With all of the interruptions, we still had a successful outing, with strong performances across many of our grades. A number of teams still remain undefeated, including our 1st XI, leading the premiership table through Round 4. This week we match up with St Edmund’s, although playing a variety of AIC schools across multiple venues. A reminder for spectators to please respect and support our coaches, umpires and officials. These staff do a great job and for the most part are volunteering their time! Go well this weekend, three weeks to go!

Expectations

Please be aware of the following expectations that are in place within the program here at Marist. All boys must always embody these values and expectations throughout the season!

PUNCTUALITY
Boys are expected to be at trials/training on time and be dressed and ready to start at 6:45am (morning) and 3:30pm (afternoon).
COMMUNICATION
Boys are expected to communicate to Mr. Millward or their relevant year coordinator (not their coach) if they have any issues in relation to attendance at trials/trainings or games.
UNIFORM
All cricketers must wear the correct uniform to training. This includes Marist training shirt, training shorts and blue or white Marist socks. Boys who are not wearing the correct uniform will not be permitted to participate.
RESPECT
All boys are expected to demonstrate high levels of respect for their coaches and their peers at all times.

Equipment Storage:

Please note the storage location for secondary school cricket kits has now changed. ALL secondary school kit bags are to be stored int eh visitors changing room of the John Eales Grandstand – McMahon Oval. Primary cricket kits are to be stored under the primary school in the sports gear storage shelves.

AIC Round 5 – Saturday 7 March

The schedule for this weekend – AIC Round 5, will be released on Tuesday 3 March, with team lists to follow on Friday 6 March, please keep and eye out on Parent Orbit and emails for these to come out!

Term 1 Training Schedule – Week 5

Please see Parent Orbit for this week’s training scheudle – all boys are required to be at training, please let your year level coordinator, or Mr Millward know if you are going to be absent.

Rugby Union

Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field

Marist Rugby| Safety Initiatives

Rugby union continues to be a safe and well-managed sport at Marist College, with player welfare at the centre of everything we do. One of the key pillars of our approach is the mandatory Rugby Ready Program, introduced in 2023 and delivered to all players from Year 5-12 prior to trials each season.

Students will again complete the four-week program, designed to physically prepare players, develop core skills, and teach correct and safe contact techniques. Sessions also cover the enforcement of game laws and important safety measures such as the Scrum Passport and the “MAYDAY” call. By ensuring every player builds confidence and competence before competition, we significantly reduce injury risk.

Our proactive approach is reflected in outcomes. Marist consistently records among the lowest injury rates in the AIC competition, highlighting the effectiveness of structured preparation, qualified coaching, and strong medical oversight.

Rugby union continues to evolve with national initiatives focused on technique education, graduated contact exposure, and concussion management protocols. Together with our Rugby Ready Program, these measures ensure the game remains safe, challenging, and enjoyable for all students while supporting their long-term development and love of the sport.

Marist Rugby Union | Sign On

Thank you to the 580+ students who have already signed on to play rugby at the College in 2026.

In the Opens, the College is on track to field teams from the 1st XV through to the 10th XV. A terrific reflection of the strength of the program’s culture and a credit to the commitment of both staff and students.

Parents - please find the Extra-Curricular tile on Parent Orbit to find information regarding sign on. You are able to sign your son up for a chosen sport once the portal opens.

Students who wish to play Term 2 sports, you are able to sign up via the student café. Once your son/s have signed up all parents or caregivers MUST approve the signup 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, and ensures all relevant information is forwarded to you via communication channels.

Rugby Ready Program | Year 5-12

The Rugby Ready Program had an excellent kick-off. Thanks to all the students who attended Week 1 of the program. I cannot speak more highly of the manner in which each year level embraced the sessions, moved through the content, and connected with their peers.

Please NOTE, if a student does miss a session, please attend another session that week either a year level up or down eg. Year 8 can attend Year 7 or Year 9. This ensures that a student remains on the same progression each week as his year level and can re-join his group the following week with a full understanding of the language and techniques required.

You will see the Opens have been allocated two options each week, however they only need attend one.

Thanks to the coaches for volunteering their time and expertise to the program. Marist is fortunate to have many staff, old boys and current students contributing to the rugby program. We appreciate all that they do in creating a safe and challenging rugby environment.

WET WEATHER – Training will very rarely be cancelled due to wet weather. However, in the event of rain, I ask that all students be dropped off at Des Connor Field, Flat 5. To protect computers and formal hats, please ensure all gear is placed under cover around the canteen or in the shed upon arrival.

NOTE – Any student competing for a position on the AIC Marist swim team, you will start your Rugby Ready Program in Week 7 following the AIC Swimming Championship on Tuesday 11th.

ALL swimmers intending to play rugby will be required to complete one session in Week 7 following the Championship. They will then be required to do two sessions in Week 8 and Mr Graham will put on a session for all swimmers on Monday 24 (Week 9) at 6:45am to ensure they can complete the program.

Similarly, any students involved in a music rehearsal or practice are asked to alternate weeks from Week 5 if their music practice clashes with Rugby Ready.

Thanks to all departments for supporting the Rugby Ready Program.

Metropolitan North School Sport | Restructure

As outlined in the Week 1 newsletter from Head of Sport, Mr Derek Lennon, the Metropolitan North School Sport program has undergone a significant restructure.

The nine previous districts have now been consolidated into six districts, each catering for students aged 10–19 years. This represents a major shift from the former representative pathway, and the College is continuing to work through the details of the new model.

District trial information will be advertised from the beginning of the term in which each trial is scheduled. This information will appear in the College newsletter and daily student notices.

Students wishing to be considered will be asked to submit an Expression of Interest for their chosen sport. To be eligible for nomination, players must either be competing for the College at A level or performing at a higher club level. Please note the College is permitted to nominate a maximum of four students per trial. Nominations will be determined based on playing experience, with consideration given to students at the upper end of the relevant age group.

Selected students will receive an email containing a QR code to complete their district trial registration. After nominations close, the District will issue the required documentation. This must be completed and returned electronically to Mr Lennon at lennond@marash.qld.edu.au, who will then submit it to the District on the student’s behalf.

Marist Rugby Union | Nutrition Guide

To support your recovery following early morning training sessions and to help maintain focus and energy levels throughout the school day, below are some simple breakfast ideas that can be prepared at home and brought to school:

Breakfast Wrap

Wholegrain wrap with scrambled eggs, cheese and spinach, plus a piece of fruit.Easy to wrap in foil and eat after training.

Greek Yoghurt Bowl (in a container)

Greek yoghurt, oats or granola, berries, honey.High protein and easy to prepare the night before.

Peanut Butter & Banana Sandwich

Wholegrain bread, peanut butter, sliced banana, plus a small milk or flavoured milk.Simple and filling.

Smoothie (in a shaker bottle)

Milk, banana, frozen berries, oats, yoghurt or protein powder.Fast, portable and ideal if appetite is low after training.

Overnight Oats

Oats, milk, yoghurt, chia seeds, honey and fruit in a sealed container.Prepare the night before, no cooking required.

Marist Rugby Union | Equipment

Throughout the Rugby Ready Program and into the season, we use a significant amount of equipment each week. This includes balls, cones, tackle pads, tackle bags and other training resources. As a program, we pride ourselves on looking after our equipment and ensuring it is returned to the sheds after each session.

While our staff and students make every effort to account for all items, there may occasionally be something left behind. We appreciate the support of our College community in helping us maintain high standards in this area.

Our Marist Rugby branded balls are high-quality and understandably popular. If you happen to find one around the College or elsewhere around the area, we kindly ask that it be returned to a member of staff.

Thank you for supporting the standards and culture of Marist Rugby.

Rugby Referee Program | Invitation

Thanks to the 13 Marist students, the two Mt St Michael’s students, one Padua College student and one parent who attended the first Referee Ready afternoon last Friday. It was wonderful to see our next crop of officials beginning their journey.

The Marist College Ashgrove Rugby Referee Program is offered to anyone in Year 8 and above who is interested in becoming a referee. A huge thanks to Mr Daniel Mangin from the Queensland Rugby Union for delivering the course and for his support throughout the AIC rugby union season.

The program is extended to anyone in the Marist community who would like to become a referee including Old Boys, fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters of Marist students. The program will run for four consecutive Friday afternoons, beginning on Friday 27 February. The content is delivered from 3:30-5:00pm here at the College in Room 108.

A rugby union referee earns between $25-$40 per game.

Anyone interested should contact Mr Richard Graham, Director of Rugby / Track and Field grahamr@marash.qld.edu.au

Marist Rugby Union | Correct Uniform

As parents begin to purchase clothing in preparation for each term’s sporting commitments, I would like to clarify the College’s expectations regarding the rugby union uniform.

Last season, we had a small number of students cut the bottom off their rugby union socks and insert a white sock. The rugby union uniform is very clear and consists of the bumblebee jersey, Marist sports shorts, and Marist rugby union socks.

There are to be no alterations made to any part of the rugby union uniform. I ask that students and parents please address this prior to the season commencing, rather than it needing to be followed up by coaches closer to the season.

Thank you for your continued support.

Rugby Union Trials

Please make sure you see the Rugby Union Key Dates Calendar in the Parent Orbit for all games throughout the season.

Following the conclusion of the Rugby Ready Program at the end of Week 8, the students will start to prepare in their Year levels for the full school internal trial on Saturday 28 March (end of Week 9). This day also serves as the Rosalie Tribute Round.

For those interested in watching the early season 1st XV and 2nd XV trials, the games are as follows –

WHAT: Internal 1st XV trial

WHEN: Sunday 15 March

TIME: 10:00am-12:00pm

WHERE: Everton Park Roosters Rugby Union Club (Hurdcotte Street)

WHAT: 1st XV vs Downlands / 2nd XV vs Downlands

WHEN: Sunday 22 March

TIME: 10:30am – 2nd XV kick off / 11:30am 1st XV kick off

WHERE: Everton Park Roosters Rugby Union Club (Hurdcotte Street)

Marist Rugby Union – Social Media

@marist_ashgrove_rugby

In 2025 the College consistently 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.

Track and Field

Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field

Mr Rob Martin – Head Coach, Track and Field

Marist Track and Field | State Championships Preparation

Students from the College have begun the 2026 athletics season in blistering form.

In preparation for the 129thQueensland Athletics Championships, athletes have continued to train with excellent commitment and competed regularly to sharpen their competition readiness. While students are following different programs and pathways, several performances have stood out in the past week -

Isaac Ting - 100m personal best of 10.86s
Hayden Lockhart - strong 11.24s, closing in on breaking the 11-second barrier again
Hugo Russo - 34.14m in the U14 Javelin

On Saturday night Harry Prole and Ethan Bird competed in the Queensland 3000m Championships with both boys running fantastic races. Congratulations to both running strong times in the U18 Men’s 3000m.

Harry Prole – 1st – 8:41.43
Ethan Bird – 4th – 9:06.30

The Championships will be held 12–15 March, and we wish all Marist athletes the very best in their final preparations and competition.

Marist Track and Field | Camp (SAVE THE DATE)

Following our success at the 2025 AIC Primary and Secondary Championship and win at the National Schools Challenge (Intermediate Division), the Track and Field program continues to provide excellent opportunities for students to be involved in a high-quality program.

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.

Camp Information

Dates: Thursday 17– Saturday 19 September 2026

Venues: Sleeman Sports Complex (Accommodation) / UQ Track and Field (Training and Performance)

Marist Track and Field | Sign On

Parents - please find the Extra-Curricular tile on Parent Orbit to find information regarding sign on. Students who wish to be involved in the Track and Field program, you are able to sign up via the student café. Once your son/s have signed up all parents or caregivers MUST approve the signup and edit or update any medical details.

Sunday Sessions

For all students wanting to begin their Track and Field training, Mr Rob Martin will continue to run his usual Sunday sessions. The focus at this early stage is Sprints / Hurdles / Throws / Jump plyometrics. Please see below details -

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.

Tennis

Mrs Jade Ritchie - Tennis Administrator

I hope you're all having a lovely term of tennis so far. Below is some information about our upcoming holiday clinics and Term 2 dates.

Term 1 - 2 Feb to 27 Mar

Make up lessons will take place in week 10 if we haven't been able to fit you in during the term for it.

Holiday Clinic Program

Tues Apr 7, Wed Apr 8, Thur Apr 9

Mon Apr 13, Tue Apr 14, Wed Apr 15

Cost: $60 per day or $150 for 3.

Time: 8:00am to 11:00am

You will be able to book these today from 3:00pm.

Term 2 - 27 Apr to 5 Jun

This will be available to book from Mar 25.

For all enquiries please contact me at mcatennis@marash.qld.edu.au or 07 3011 1272