Sport News

Welcome back to all for what will be another busy term of sport.

2026 Confraternity Carnival

The holidays presented an exciting experience for our College as we hosted the 2026 Confraternity Carnival hosted. 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 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 Emmaus College Rockhampton (20-6) was followed by another win under the GPS lights against St Patricks Mackay (8-6). Our final pool game was against a strong Ignatius Park, unfortunately, going down (0-8). With the two wins we progressed to the top 8 and meant we could continue to compete for the Confraternity Shield.

Standing in our way was Iona College for a top 4 position. The boys started strong and were dominant in the first half. Iona fought back in the second, and we went down (4-10). This meant we were now playing for 5-8 position against another AIC team, Padua. The boys dug deep and put on a strong performance and had a solid 30-12 win. Our final game fighting for 5th or 6th was against Ignatius Park, where we went down. The boys should be very proud of themselves, finishing 6th overall in the tournament, which is our best ever result in the confraternity competition. Congratulations to the boys involved and thank you to the coaching staff, Mr Winchester, Mr Grealy, Mr Midgley and Mr Taylor.

I would also like to pass on my thanks to Mr Apps and Mrs Ahearn who organised the tournament. Additionally, to all from the community who were involved as either a spectator, player or volunteer. Your support was greatly appreciated and the College couldn’t have done it without you.

AIC

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.

Coordinators for Term 3 Sports

Basketball – Mr Jonte Brown – brownj@marash.qld.edu.au
Tennis – Mr Scott Reaper – reapers@marash.qld.edu.au
Rugby League – Mr Camryn Mabey – mabeyc@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.

Basketball

Hockey

Athletics

Rugby League

Tennis

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.

Student Achievements

Met North AFL

Congratulations to Matthew Terwin and Tane Drake, who represented Met North at the QRSS 15-17 Years Boys AFL State Championships.

Further, Matthew was fortunate enough to be the only Met North player selected in the QRSS 15-17 Years Boys AFL Queensland Team.

Rugby League

Mr Cam Mabey - Rugby League Coordinator

Marist Students At Confraternity Carnival

The Confraternity Carnival hosted by Marist College Ashgrove in Week 1 of the school holiday saw 29 Marist students involved in the carnival.

Marist College Ashgrove Team

Year 10, 11 and 12 students - Leroy Malone, Thomas Collins, Ewan Wood, William Bagnall, Oliver Liddicoat, Ryan Browne, Jed Cole, Alo Va’a, Couper Liddicoat, Henry Robinson, Taj Cook, Phelix Lavea, Archie Searle, Finn Manahan, Lachlan Webster, Jack Kennedy, Hunter Webb, Daniel Londema, James Milasas, Joseph Murphy, Max Caughley & James Johnston.

The week got off to a great start on Monday morning with a 20–6 win over Emmaus College, Rockhampton. Later that evening, the boys lined up against defending carnival champions St Patrick's College, Mackay, under the lights at GPS Rugby Club. In a tough, physical contest that swung both ways for 40 minutes, Year 12 student Will Bagnall stepped up to ice the game with a clutch 40-metre penalty goal, sealing a memorable 8–6 victory.

Two wins from two had Marist brimming with confidence heading into a top-of-the-pool clash with Ignatius Park College, Townsville. Despite a gritty performance, the boys went down 8–0 and copped a number of injuries in the process. That result set up a Tuesday afternoon quarter-final against Iona College, Brisbane. Backing up after a bruising morning encounter, Marist showed plenty of fight to jump out to a 4–0 lead, but a few costly errors swung the momentum, and the shortened 20-minute halves left little time to recover, with Iona claiming a narrow 10–4 win.

With the top four out of reach, the group connected and set their sights on achieving Marist's best-ever finish at the carnival. After a well-earned rest day, the boys turned in one of their best performances of the week. On a dry track and with the longer 25-minute format, Marist found its rhythm, completed strongly, and played the fast, expansive style of football the team had been building towards, defeating Padua College 30–12.

Friday's playoff for fifth saw another meeting with Ignatius Park. Despite emptying the tank, Marist couldn't match a quality opponent on the day, going down 36–0 to finish sixth overall—the highest placing in Marist Rugby League's Confraternity Carnival history.

The week was a valuable experience for the entire squad. The boys tested themselves against some of Queensland's strongest schoolboy rugby league teams, built genuine connections as a group, and gained valuable lessons that will serve them well heading into the AIC season.

The College acknowledges the outstanding work of coaches Brad Winchester, Mal Grealy, Jim Midgley, Kierren Moseley, Hayden Say and Charlie Taylor. Their preparation, leadership and commitment throughout the campaign helped guide the team to Marist Rugby League's best-ever Confraternity Carnival finish—a milestone the program is very proud of.

Ewan Wood – Carnival Merit Team

Year 12 student, Ewan Wood, had an outstanding carnival – earning himself the #5 jersey spot in the carnivals “Merit team” chosen by a panel of selectors. Ewan played on the wing and at fullback during the carnival, putting on a clinic of consistently strong performances over the week.

Ewan also achieved the Spirit Award for Marist College Ashgrove, while year 12 student and starting front rower Henry Robinson collected the teams best & fairest award.

Boh Ballie – Good Shepperd Catholic College, Mt Isa

Year 10 MCA student, Boh Ballie, played in the carnival for Good Shepperd College from Mt Isa as a loan player.

Competing in Division 4, Boh had a strong contribution to his team’s campaign – placing 4th in their respective section of the carnival.

This was a great experience for Boh as he aspires to earn a spot in Marist’s confraternity team in the coming years.

Mason Wise – Carnival Match Official

Year 10 student, Mason Wise, was involved in the Confraternity Carnival as a match official.

Mason is one of MCA’s most competent Rugby League referees, being selected to officiate at Confro as only a year 10 student is a testament to his ability.

Over the week Mason officiated 10 matches, including the girl’s Division 1 grand final.

St Augustine Ring Ins

At the 11th hour St Augustine College, Augustine Heights, put out an SOS for players to field a team in their final match of the Carnival. Year 11 and 12 Marist students Max Fleischfresser, Frank Heenan, Will Easter, Tom Cronin and Luke Walker promptly rose to the occasion and took the field for St Augustine’s College.

It was Max Fleischfresser putting on a clinical performance, scoring a double and receiving the man of the match, to secure the win over St Anthony’s and lead St Augustine’s to a positive finish to their campaign.

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 2026 Track and Field program as we aim for our 12th successive Secondary AIC Championship and our 6th successive Primary AIC Championship. This season promises to be another exciting journey of training, competition and teamwork.

Led by our Co-Head Coaches, Mr Rob Martin and Mr Thomas Prole, 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 Orbit App 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): 3:30pm-5:00pm

Monday (Primary long jump and hurdles): 6:45am-8:10am

Tuesday (Secondary hurdles): 7:10am-8:20am

Friday (Primary high jump): 7:00am-8:00am

Sunday (ALL students welcome): 3:15pm-4:30pm

NOTE – all hurdles and jumps training will be at the John Nunan Athletics Precinct.

Let’s make Term 3 a time of hard work, growth, enjoyment, and memorable achievements.

Good luck to all our coaches and students!

Inter-House Track and Field Carnival | Remaining Events

This week we will complete the remaining events for the College’s annual Inter-House Track and Field Carnival. The 200m and 800m events will be run on Wednesday, whilst the 400m and 1500m events will be run on Friday. Students nominated by their Head of House will be emailed directly.

We are aware that Year 12 are on retreat during this period. As a result, Year 12 can join on Friday 17 when they return or we will run events on Monday 20 at the PM training session.

A reminder of the current points table and the need to see all nominated students attend the events.

Current Standings

Ignatius 557
Ridley 509
Slattery 486
Ephrem 472
Rush 467
Gilroy 451
Harold 445
Foley 434

Following these events, we will announce the 2026 Age Champions in Week 2 of Term 3.

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.

A reminder that Friday will be our first Internal Mini Meet. This is an important opportunity for all students wishing to attend District trials and provides an early season competitive opportunity. Following the competitive meet, we will gather as a group for a BBQ. This is 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.

NOTE - we have three Internal Mini Meets early in the season to build competition preparedness and test ourselves against our teammates. Those dates are –

Friday 17 July – Internal Mini Meet #1
Friday 31 July – Internal Mini Meet #2
Friday 7 August – Internal Mini Meet #3

See the Track and Field notification in Parent Orbit for the Key Dates Calendar.

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 17 – Saturday 19 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 24 September and Thursday 1 October

TIME: 8:00am – 11:45am

WHERE: UQ Sporting Precinct

Further information will be provided closer to the time.

Marist Track and Field | Sunday Sessions

For those students wanting to get a head start or start the season strongly, Mr Rob Martin will continue to run his usual Sunday sessions. Mr Martin has had exceptionally strong numbers attend the sessions as students prepare for up-coming Inter-House Carnival and AIC season. The Sunday sessions are an excellent introduction. We have some exceptional coaches leading these sessions, and creating an environment of learning and enjoyment. Some benefits include -

Improvement in technique and speed.
Technical development for throws.
Improved repeat speed / conditioning.

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.

Basketball

Mr Jonte Brown - Basketball Coordinator

Welcome back to term three! The AIC Basketball season is here, and we’re looking forward to hitting the ground running this week. The term three training schedule has been posted on Orbit and can be seen below:

Holiday Activities

It was a busy holiday period on the Basketball front with camps taking place throughout. In the second week of the holidays, we had our Marist Basketball Camp which consisted of some developmental training sessions run by the Brisbane Bullets for students in Year 5-9. It was a great opportunity to continue our boy's development and connection throughout these cohorts and a big thank you goes the Bullets for running a great program for the boys. All the players involved put in some hard work that will stand them in good stead heading into the AIC season.

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 training on time and be dressed and ready to start at 6:45am (morning) and 3:30pm / 4:45pm (afternoon).
COMMUNICATION
Boys are expected to communicate to Mr Brown (not their coach) if they have any issues in relation to attendance at trials/trainings or games.
UNIFORM
All Basketballers must wear the correct uniform to training. This includes a 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.

AIC Trial Round – Friday 17 and Saturday 18 July

The schedule for Friday 17 and Saturday 18 July will be released early this week, with team lists to follow on Thursday 16 July (Primary Teams) and Friday 17 July (Secondary Teams). Please keep an eye out on Parent Orbit and emails for these to come out!

1st V Basketball Squad

Mr James Lymer - 1st V Basketball Head Coach

Throughout Semester 1, our 1st V Basketball Squad have been quietly laying the foundations for the season ahead. With countless hours spent on their player development on court and strength and conditioning in the gym, the group have been working incredibly hard at getting better each day.

The squad were fortunate enough to match up against some of Queensland's strongest school programs in a number of preseason games, including Brisbane State High, Gregory Terrace, Nudgee College and St Mary's College, before concluding the pre-season with a three-day camp at Emu Gully. The camp provided an invaluable opportunity to strengthen relationships, build resilience as a group and reinforce the habits that underpin our program. With the AIC season now upon us, the 1st V squad enter the competition prepared, connected and excited for the journey ahead.

Tennis

Please read the safety notice below from Track and Field — it affects anyone walking near Hayden Oval on the way to the tennis courts.

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.

Your cooperation is essential in ensuring everyone's safety during training sessions. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Swimming

Mr James Boyce - Director of Swimming

Congratulations to Archer Mellifont, who has been selected in the Queensland Flippers Team to compete at the South Australian Championships at the end of August. This selection is a fitting recognition of Archer's hard work and commitment, and we wish him every success at the championships.

Congratulations also to Tomas Fitzpatrick, who has been selected to attend the Brisbane Vagas Camp. The camp brings together some of the region's leading young swimmers as part of the pathway towards the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games. It is an excellent opportunity for Tomas to further develop his skills in a high-performance environment.

Well done to both Archer and Tomas on these outstanding achievements.

Term 3 swimming is now underway, with many of our students back in the pool as they begin preparations for the AIC Swimming Championships in March. Although the championships are still several months away, the work completed throughout Terms 3 and 4 provides an important foundation for the season ahead and plays a significant role in team selection.

With the pool maintained at a comfortable 28.5°C, winter is no barrier to training. If your son is interested in joining our swimming program or returning to lessons this term, please contact us at swim@marash.qld.edu.au.

Rugby Union

Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field

Marist Rugby Union | Representative Rugby

Congratulation to 1st XV players Jed Cole and Daniel Londema for their performances during the recent Australian Schoolboys Rugby Union Championship.

Jed was selected in the Queensland Schoolboys 1 team whilst Daniel represented the Queensland Schoolboys 2 team. Both students continued their exceptionally form from their undefeated 1st XV season into the carnival.

Qld I finished second behind NSW I, whilst Qld II finished in the lower half of the table.

Well done to both Jed and Daniel.

Marist Rugby Union – Social Media

@marist_ashgrove_rugby

In 2026 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.