Sport News

Another term of Marist sport has come to an end and it was a great finish. Last Saturday saw Marist host the basketball, tennis and rugby league round. It was a really positive and collegial atmosphere around the campus as we played fixtures in all three sports against local rivals Padua College. 

Marist had a successful day overall with good results across all three sports. The 1st IV tennis won 6-2 (13 wins and 0 losses overall), the 1st XIII rugby league won 16-12 (8 wins and 4 losses) and unfortunately the 1st V basketball went down 49-80. Overall, in basketball we won 17 matches and lost 15.

Our basketball community overall had a challenging season. The 1st V finished eighth and in the aggregate shield we came fifth. The following teams have finished the season undefeated:

• 8B
• 8C

Thank you to Ms Samantha Davids (Co-ordinator), Mr Stewart Moore (Junior Co-ordinator), Mr James Lymer (First V Coach) and all the coaches and support staff who have worked tirelessly this season to support our boys. 

Our First IV tennis team finished third overall, a washout round impacting our final result and second in the aggregate. The following teams finished the season undefeated:

• 10B
• 8B
• 6A
• 6B
• 5A
• 5B 

Thank you to Mr Andrew Ward (Co-ordinator and Head Coach) and all the staff who were involved in the tennis program. It was a hugely successful year all round in tennis and something everyone should be very proud of, with room to grow further in 2026. 

Rugby league was the winner on Saturday as Marist hosted Padua College. The boys enjoyed running out on a pristine McMahon Oval on a glorious, sunny day, culminating with the First XIII winning against Confro runners-up Padua. Overall, we finished third in the 1st XIII and runners-up the aggregate shield. 

Our undefeated teams in rugby league were:

• 2nd XIII
• 10A
• 10B
• 9A
• 9B
• 8B

Thank you to Mr Lachlan Gough (Co-ordinator), Firsts coach Mr Brad Winchester and all the staff and coaches who give up their time to mentor our boys each week. Our rugby league program continues to develop year on year, in no small part down to the commitment of the staff and the community involved.

Thank you in advance to our track and field staff who are attending track and field camp this weekend and assisting with holiday meets during the break. These activities continue to play an important part in our overall preparation for the 2025 AIC Track and Field Championships next term.

AIC Touch

Ms Kate Moore will be our Touch Coordinator for the AIC Touch Invitation in 2025, played at Iona College this year on Friday 24th (Primary) and Saturday 25th (Secondary) of October. We will be holding trials in week 2 and training in weeks 2 and 3 so boys who want to participate will need to register by the end of term through the normal sport signup process.

Holiday Camps

Don’t forget our pre-season holiday camps for AFL and Cricket in the upcoming school holidays. These events will give the participants a great experience, learn new skills and prepare the boys for the upcoming AIC trials in Term 4.

If you played these sports in 2025 you will find the registration link in your Events and Payment section in Parent Lounge/Orbit App. If you did not play in 2025 please email lennnond@marash.qld.edu.au and I will invite you.

Cricket

Dates: Thursday and Friday 2-3 October

Times: 8:30am-12:00pm

Location: Cameron Oval

Year Levels: 5-9

AFL

Dates: Monday and Tuesday 29-30 September

Times: 8:30am-12:00pm

Location: Des Connor Park

Year Levels: 5-9

Swimming

Mr James Boyce - Director of Swimming

As we close out Term 3, the countdown to the AIC Swimming Championships is officially on - just 175 days to go! It’s fantastic to see so many of our boys back in the water, preparing for the challenge ahead and striving to go one better than last year.

This season, as I’ve shared with the boys and in earlier newsletters, success will require a true team effort. We cannot continue to rely on just one or two swimmers in each group to cover multiple events. Every swimmer has a role to play, and every session matters.

Throughout Term 4 there will be moments that test our discipline, but consistency will be the key to improvement and long-term results when competition arrives in Term 1.

To support this, we will also be offering special sessions focusing on individual strokes. Details will be communicated directly to swimmers and parents via email, so please keep an eye out for updates.

I hope everyone enjoys a well-earned break. Once Term 4 begins, it’s time to reset, refocus, and commit to the work that will make this team stronger together.

Timetable Adjustments for Primary School

• Year 5 (2026): Training begins Wednesdays, 15 October, continuing Wednesday afternoons throughout Term 4. Mondays will begin on Monday 3 November.

• Year 6 (2026): Training begins Wednesday, 15 October, with sessions on Wednesday afternoons and Friday mornings.

   

Years 7–12 (2026)

Training for Years 7–12 will commence on Wednesday, 8 October, from 7:15 am – 8:00 am.The timetable for the opening week is listed below. 

Year 5 - 2026

Year 6 - 2026

Year 7 – 12 – 2025 

AIC Athletics Athletes

Students competing in AIC Athletics are reminded to prioritise their athletics training during this period.

Marist Swimming | Sign On

For full details, please visit Parent Orbit. Students must sign up via the Student Café, with parents or caregivers confirming registration through Parent Lounge and updating all medical details.

This process allows the College to plan for the appropriate number of coaches and resources.

Important: Students who are not registered will not receive information through Parent Orbit regarding the swimming program, including schedules and updates.

For any enquiries, please contact: swim@marash.qld.edu.au.

Marist Track and Field

Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field

Mr Rob Martin – Head Coach, Track and Field

Marist Track and Field | Term 3 T&F Meets

Following our three internal meets and the initial three AIC practice meets, selection for the Marist AIC Track and Field Championship team continues to take shape. For all students wishing to earn a spot on the team, the remaining AIC Practice Meet in Term 3 is scheduled for tomorrow -

*Wednesday 17 September – AIC Practice Meet #4 (SAF – State Athletics Facility)

It would be great to see all students wishing to be a part of the team to attend this meet and also whatever they can across the holidays (see below).

Marist Track and Field | Holiday Training and Meets

Thank you to everyone for your fantastic efforts throughout Term 3 in preparation for the AIC Championship. We greatly appreciate the time and commitment shown by the Track and Field squad as you continue to train, improve, and compete for places in the championship meet to be held in Week 1 of Term 4.

Throughout the holidays, we will continue to provide opportunities for the squad to train and compete. Please see below the training schedule for both weeks of the September school holidays.

WHEN: Monday and Wednesday

WHERE: McMahon Oval

WHAT: Sprints and distance

TIME: 7:30-8:45am

WHEN: Monday and Wednesday

WHERE: Hayden Oval / John Nunan Athletics Precinct

WHAT: Throws and jumps

TIME: 9:00-10:15am

NOTE: At this stage, there will be no Sunday sessions due to the Track and Field Camp, and State Athletic meets. However, if this changes I will communicate to all registered students.

A reminder that there are two holiday meets at UQ.

WHEN: Thursday 25 September / Thursday 2 October

WHERE: UQ Athletics Precinct

For those students wishing to catch the bus, the schedule is -

Depart Marist: 7:15am

Depart Venue to return to MCA: 11:45am

Marist Track and Field | Camp 

Congratulations to the students who have been invited to the 2025 Track and Field Camp. This year, sixty secondary students have been selected to attend the full camp, while fifteen of our Year 6 squad members will join in for a special one-day experience.

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. 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.

Marist Track and Field | Uniform

A reminder that the DRESS CODE for all T&F training sessions is as per the 2025 Track and Field Handbook. MCA sports shirts / Marist T&F singlet, Marist sports shorts, and white or blue socks.

For competitive events including Internal Mini Meets, the DRESS CODE is as per the 2025 Track and Field Handbook. Marist T&F singlet, Marist sports shorts, and white or blue socks.

It is important we get this right now as we have a mini meet this Friday afternoon here at the College, and we will be competing in the AIC Championship AS A TEAM wearing this uniform.

Safety Notice | Hayden Oval

Thank you for your continued support with this issue. We have had zero incidents across Term 3 and we are very appreciative of the awareness and support shown by our wider community. 

Safety is an important part of all of our programs and we are conscious that there is a lot of activity around Hayden Oval and the tennis courts.

Track and Field training (discus, shot put and javelin) has three weeks left on Hayden Oval ie. the September holidays and Week 1, Term 4.

Can I ask that at any time you are walking across Hayden Oval during Track and Field training 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.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Track and Field Handbook

Please see the Parent Orbit app for the 2025 Track and Field Handbook.

The Handbook includes the relevant Track and Field information for students and parents / guardians. If you have any further questions, please contact Mr Richard Graham.

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

Rugby Union

Mr Richard Graham – Director of Rugby / Track and Field

Marist Rugby Union | U12 The Armidale School Rugby Carnival

Following this year’s successful participation, we are excited to announce that Marist College Ashgrove has again registered for a place in The Armidale School Rugby Carnival for U12s on April 18 and 19, 2026. The window for schools to register an expression of interest for the carnival is open from September 8 – October 20 with confirmation of a place shortly after.

The carnival is a significant event in the junior rugby calendar, and as per carnival rules, we are looking forward to selecting a strong team of 20 students to represent the College. To ensure ample preparation for families, and also for the staff and students, team selection will take place in Term 4, 2024, with training and trials scheduled for Week 2 - 5.

Due to the carnival being an age group event and not a year level event, and the urgency to start organising, we will be selecting a team based on the below criteria -

Please note, to be eligible: 

• Students must be born in 2014 
• Students must be enrolled at the College in 2025 

Given the popularity of the carnival, and based on advice from the organisers and schools who are regular participants, we have been told that accommodation will need to be secured ASAP. Students will be required to travel to Armidale and stay with their own families, and early team selection will allow time for planning and organisation. Along with the 20 students selected, an additional 3-5 students will be named as standbys which I understand is a difficult scenario for those involved. 

For those interested in participating, please go to Parent Portal > Extra Curricular > XV Rugby > U12 and register your interest. 

We understand the challenge of organising planning so far out from the event and also the challenges with team selection amidst Term 1 AIC sports preparations, and we appreciate your understanding and support.

Marist Rugby Union | Scrum Club

In 2025, Mr Chris Daykin, Mr Doug Perrers and Mr James Trebbin will again lead the Term 4 Scrum Club program.

The scrum is an integral and unique part of Rugby Union. The contest between two well coached and well-conditioned packs is both compelling and exciting.

Effective scrummaging requires teamwork. Each individual must understand their role, how to be an effective scrummager, and how to achieve this as a member of a forward unit.

Whilst the rugby union scrum is a means of restarting play after a stoppage which has been caused, it is always necessary to ensure safety at all times is our key focus when forming scrums.

A key part of our rugby safety here at the College is educating and supporting students’ development. The Scrum Ready Conditioning Program will continue to take you through the journey of developing and conditioning individual body strength, control and shape.

The aims of all the Marist Scrum Ready Program is to -

1. Educate students on key strengthening exercises
2. Educate students on the correct technique
3. Develop the ability to maintain a safe, strong and stable body
4. position
5. Reduce injury risk by improving the above

The five week program will consist of one on field session and one gym session per week. Further information to follow in the Term 4 newsletter.

Marist Rugby Union | Social Media 

@marist_ashgrove_rugby

 During the 2025 rugby union season, 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.

Basketball

Ms Samantha Davids (Coordinator)

Final Round Wrap-Up – Nothing But Net!

Last round, last chance to hit the hardwood with fire—and our teams didn’t disappoint! With the season winding down, our squads came out swinging, showing hustle and heart.

8B’s – Undefeated Champs!

Shoutout to our unstoppable 8B’s who closed out the season with a perfect record! Led by old boys Matt Gibson and Flynn Connolly, this team brought the full-court press all season long. Their coaching was a slam dunk—mixing passion, strategy, and a winning mindset. With a roster stacked with talent, grit, and great attitudes, the boys played like a well-oiled machine. Huge congrats to the 8B’s for a championship-worthy season!

11A’s – Clutch Kings

The 11A’s delivered another buzzer-beater win in a game that had fans on the edge of their seats. Week after week, they’ve battled through intense matchups—real court wars—and come out victorious. Their composure in crunch time has been nothing short of legendary. Hats off to the 11A’s for their clutch performances!

11B’s & 10B’s – Showtime Squads

These teams lit up the scoreboard with highlight-reel plays—deep threes, fadeaways, and even a few rim-rattling dunks! Their court chemistry and hustle made every possession electric. These wins will be etched in the memory books for the 2025 season.

2nds – Dominance Defined

The 2nds squad was so dominant they triggered the mercy rule in the second half, cruising to a 40-point blowout. Coaches Nicole and Dylan have been a dynamic duo—setting high standards, pushing the boys to elevate their game, and keeping the vibe fun and focused. This team has been a powerhouse all season.

3rds – Near-Perfect Run

With only one loss all season—to Coach Mr Denke’s old school rivals, St Pat’s—the 3rds have been a force to be reckoned with. Coach Denkes has brought energy and excellence to the squad, helping the boys finish strong in their final year of school basketball. What a season!

10C’s – Bench Depth & Big Heart

Every week, the 10C’s roll in with a full bench and full hearts. Their teamwork, skill, and love for the game shine through every possession. They play with joy, and it’s a pleasure to watch them ball out.

9C’s – Half-Court Heroics

Special shoutout to Jackson Keir from the 9C’s who nailed a half-court shot last Saturday—an epic moment that’ll be talked about for seasons to come!

As we wrap up the 2025 season, we salute all our players and coaches. May your off-season be filled with rest, growth, and maybe a few pickup games. We’ll see you back on the court in 2026—recharged, refocused, and ready to run it back!

See you courtside in 2026

Round 7 vs Padua 

Coaches Report – Mr James Lymer (1st V Coach)

The 1st V team looked to finish strong in the last round of the AIC vs Padua. After beating Padua comfortably in the trial game, the focus was not to be complacent and start the game off strong through trusting the offense and showing relentless effort on the defensive need. Padua had similar plans however, coming out with more energy and physicality from tip off and going on an early run, setting ourselves up for the challenging task end of the quarter, down 29 – 7. Much better urgency and accountability was shown in the second quarter, ending the half on a 16-7 run of our own. Padua were able to withstand the surge, hitting a number of timely threes to push the lead out again. An inability to stay engaged on the defensive and generate easy shots made it hard to close the gap in the second half. Although disappointed with the loss, some promising signs and moments to reflect on throughout. We’ve been at reach of winning most games even through not playing to our standard. Some valuable lessons learnt through this season leading into CBSQ, the group are determined to finish the year on a high and compete at a high level.

Captain’s report- Jacob Cook 

Padua came out with intensity right from the opening tip. They impressed with their energy and execution, setting the tone early and maintaining it throughout the game. Their strong start played a major role in securing their win.

 For us, this game became a turning point. While the result didn’t go our way, the experience has really fueled our team heading into CBSQ. We now have a clearer vision of what it takes to compete at that level and what adjustments we need to make. The game showed us that when we execute with plays, we can put ourselves in a strong position to win.

With CBSQ ahead, we’re motivated, hungry, and confident. We know what we need to do, bring our own intensity from the start, trust in our training and play together. This game was a lesson, and it’s one we’re ready to build on.

Rugby League – Mr Lachlan Gough (Coordinator)

The 2025 Rugby League season at Marist College Ashgrove has been one of pride, effort, and brotherhood across all age groups. Each team, from the Opens through to Year 7, has represented the College with courage, determination, and a genuine sense of mateship. The season has been marked not only by the skills shown on the field, but by the values of respect, humility, and commitment displayed by our boys.

A heartfelt thank you must go to our dedicated coaching staff. Mr Brad Winchester, as Head Coach of the First XIII, has provided outstanding leadership and vision throughout the season. He has been ably supported by his assistant coaches, Mr Mal Grealy, Mr Charlie Taylor, and Mr Hayden Say, who have worked tirelessly to mentor and support our senior players. Their knowledge of the game and their genuine care for the development of our young men have been central to the program’s success. We also extend our gratitude to all team coaches across the age groups, whose expertise, encouragement, and commitment to the boys’ growth have made this season possible.

While every team’s effort is celebrated, it is important to acknowledge the remarkable achievement of our undefeated teams. The 2nd XIII, 10A, 10B, 9A, 9B, and 8B sides each completed their seasons without a loss—a testament to their hard work, discipline, and strong team spirit. Their results reflect not only individual skill but also the power of teamwork and collective determination.

Finally, a sincere thank you goes to the parents and supporters of our program. Your encouragement on the sidelines, assistance behind the scenes, and unwavering belief in our boys have been invaluable throughout 2025.

As we close the season, we celebrate the efforts of every boy who wore the Marist jersey and look forward to an exciting 2026.

Tennis

Mr Andrew Ward - Director of Tennis

Wrapping Up 2025 & Looking Ahead

A Big Thank You

First and foremost – a huge thank you to all parents for your incredible support throughout this AIC campaign. From transport runs to cheering courtside, your contribution makes everything possible.

From the entire coaching team and I – thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Season Recap

AIC 2025 was another strong season for Marist Tennis. We finished runners-up in the aggregate table to St Peters for the third year running – but make no mistake, we are moving in the right direction.

Round 7 vs Padua – A Winning Finish

We closed out the season in style with victories across the school, with only three matches washed out. Wins came from all our Open teams, Year 10s, 8B, Year 7, and every Primary team – the perfect way to finish on a high.

Our Firsts showed class against Padua, powering to a 6–0 lead before graciously giving our Year 12 doubles players one final chance to represent their school. Andrew Woodward/Ben Mead and Elliot Schanzl/Max Reibelt took the court to great applause, showing true Marist spirit. A 6–2 win sealed the day.

Special thanks to our Firsts squad: Hamish Davidson (C), Lachlan Braithwaite, Fletcher Wessling, Oscar White, and William Lambley. You boys led with pride, fought hard, and created memories that will last long after the scoreboard is forgotten.

Premierships & Undefeated Teams

🎉 10B and 8B – Back-to-back Premierships!💪 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B – Undefeated across the entire season, completing the dream of sweeping all four Primary divisions.

This is an extraordinary achievement and a credit to our coaching team and the boys’ commitment. The future is bright!

2026 – The Next Step: Elite Squad Upgrade

In 2026 we are taking our squad system to the next level. For players ready to commit to tennis as a serious pursuit, we are launching invitation-only, high-performance squads.

• Training 4 days per week
• One private lesson with a squad coach each week
• Focus on all areas: technique, footwork, strength, recovery, diet, injury prevention, and match preparation
• Super League participation required for advanced match play
• Squad tours planned for 2026

All other squads will continue to run as normal, so every player has a pathway suited to their goals.

Super Grade & Super League 2026

We’re aiming for 12 teams in Competition 1 (starting February). Adults, Old Boys, and current students are welcome – teams of 3 are ideal. Returning players will receive a free clinic to sharpen their game before the season. Weekly competition is the best way to cut errors, build confidence, and lock in a strong match style. Rally your mates and get involved!

Term 4 – What’s On

• Bookings: Now open. Contact Jade at ✉️ mcatennis@marash.qld.edu.au. Private lessons confirmed only once Jade has secured your spot.
• Friday Fixtures: Back in Week 1, Term 4 – free for all coaching students. The best way to finish the week with competitive fun.
• Make-Up Lessons: Week 10 and first week of holidays. Bookings through Jade.

Key Dates

Term 3

• Tue 16 Sept: AIC Break-Up Party | 3:30–6:00 PM (All players, reserves & shadow squad welcome)
• Mon 22 – Wed 24 Sept: September Holiday Camp | 8:00–11:00 AM

Term 4

• Tue 7 Oct: Coaching resumes (Pupil-Free Day)
• Sun 23 Nov: Parent–Son Tournament & Christmas Break-Up | 2:00–6:00 PM (BBQ from 5:00 PM)

Holiday Camps (8:00–11:00 AM)

• Dec 15–17
• Dec 22–24
• Jan 12–14
• Jan 19–21

2026 Term 1

• Mon 2 Feb: Coaching begins

• Launch of the new Elite Squads

   

Wilson Pro Shop

We’re fully stocked with the latest Wilson gear – including the new Wilson Ultra and the RF frame. Demo racquets are available now. Members enjoy the best prices in Brisbane on racquets, shoes, strings, and accessories.

A Personal Note

I will be on leave until the end of October. Private lessons with me will reopen for bookings during Term 4 (I will be back to work from the week beginning Monday 3 Oct). Thanks for your understanding.