Football

Junior Program

SPC Junior Green 7 – 2 - 44                                 Defeated Damascus 1 – 3 – 9

Goal Kickers: Max Edwards 3, Jeremiah Mcpherson 2, Mack Densley Shelly 1, Chase Henry 1

Best Players: Max Edwards, Hugh Farrell, Jett Winduss, Bryce Scott, Chase Henry, Jerimiah Mcpherson

SPC Green played their second game of the season on Wednesday the 6th of May in what some might call the perfect winter day for football. The weather conditions were extremely challenging, with heavy rain, strong wind, and freezing conditions throughout the match.

The game began in tough circumstances as SPC Green fought hard against the wind in the opening quarter. Despite the wet conditions, the boys showed great determination and effort, only trailing by 2 points at quarter time. The weather became so severe that both teams agreed to do a straight swap over at the break.

In the second quarter, the rain became even heavier, but so did SPC Green’s intensity. The boys dominated the term, kicking 3 goals for the quarter. Max Edwards was outstanding, kicking 2 goals while also dominating the contested possessions around the ground. At the stoppages, Hugh Farrel was unstoppable, winning nearly every hit out and continuing to impact contests all over the field.

Across the half-back and half-forward Jett Winduss was also instrumental in SPC Green’s strong performance. Despite the slippery conditions, he read the play brilliantly and took numerous intercept marks, constantly cutting off Damascus’s attacks and helping drive the ball back forward.

Mack Densley Shelly also made a great contribution throughout the match, providing a strong presence in the forward line. His pressure, positioning, and effort created opportunities for teammates and helped keep the ball locked inside our attacking half.

The second half arrived with the rain still pouring, but SPC Green came out with the same energy and determination after a quick chat at halftime. The boys controlled the third quarter and continued to apply pressure around the contest. Jerimiah Mcpherson started the second half on fire, taking a brilliant overhead mark despite the miserable weather before calmly slotting the ball through the goals.

As the game went on, SPC Green continued to play with great spirit and teamwork. The boys never let Ballarat’s wild weather conditions affect their effort and determination, showing resilience and toughness for the entire match.

Overall, it was a fantastic team performance in extremely difficult conditions, with every player contributing to a hard-fought game.

Billy Twaits

SPC Green Junior Coach

SPC Green 14 – 5 - 89              Defeated Clarendon College           2 – 3 – 15

Goal Kickers: Jett Winduss 2, Jordy Cummings 2, Bentley Molloy 2, Max Edwards 2, Alex Dekker 1, Paddy Johnston 1, Lenny Palmer 1, Chase Henry 1, Oliver Davey 1, Jack Clohesy 1 

Best Players: Jett Winduss, Jordy Cummings, Jerimiah Mcpherson, Lenny Palmer, Alex Dekker, Max Edwards

SPC Green played their fourth game of the season on Wednesday the 20th of May against Clarendon College on Hill Oval at SPC. From the opening bounce, SPC Green came out full of energy and intensity, setting the tone early with their hard determination and teamwork.

The focus heading into the game was team first football and working together across every line of the ground, and the boys absolutely smashed that focus from start to finish. SPC Green got off to a flying start in the first quarter, kicking 5 goals through strong pressure, clean ball movement, and selfless football. Jordy Cummings made a fantastic contribution in the forward line, creating opportunities and applying constant pressure inside 50.

After a quick swap around of the magnets at quarter time, the boys were extremely pleased with the start they had produced and were determined to maintain the same energy and intensity throughout the match.

Lenny Palmer was outstanding on the wing, consistently finding plenty of the football and helping drive the team forward with strong running and ball use. As usual, Jerimiah Mcpherson continued to impress with several strong overhead marks around the ground, providing a reliable target whenever the team needed him.

Through the midfield, Alex Dekker, Billy Sheehan, and Max Edwards worked brilliantly together. Their focus for the game was two way running, and all three players executed their roles perfectly by working hard both offensively and defensively. SPC Green continued to dominate around the stoppages, winning important contests and keeping control of the game.

Baxter Byvoet was also excellent around the stoppages and had a run in the midfield for a quarter, where he continued to have a strong impact on the game. In defence, Bentley Molloy was outstanding in the backline before later moving into the ruck to give Hugh Farrell a well-earned break after he had dominated throughout the day with his work rate and competitiveness.

As the game went on, SPC Green continued to work hard for one another and never dropped their intensity. The teamwork, determination, and willingness to play for each other resulted in a fantastic team performance and a well-deserved win over Clarendon College.

Billy Twaits

SPC Green Junior Coach

SPC Green 10 - 5 - 65                               Defeated          Ballarat High School 6 – 7 - 43

Best Players: Buster Argall, Jimmy Franc, Jake Martin, Hugh Farrell, Max Edwards, Jett Winduss

Goal Kickers: Jake Martin 2, Jett Winduss 2, Zayne Tandy 2, Bentley Molloy 1, Buster Argall 1, Lewis Warland 1, Hugh Farrel 1 

SPC Green played their third game of the season on Wednesday the 13th of May at Ballarat High School. This time, the weather was finally on our side, creating perfect conditions for football.

The game started slowly for SPC Green as we struggled to stop BHS’s strong attack through the middle of the ground. Their fast ball movement and pressure saw them jump out to an early lead, putting SPC Green down by 3 goals at quarter time.

The boys ran in at the first break knowing we could play much better. In the second quarter, the team began to respond well as the defenders tightened up on their opponents and applied stronger pressure across the ground. SPC Green managed to hold BHS to just 2 goals for the quarter while also kicking 2 ourselves to stay within reach heading into halftime.

At the main break, the boys came together for an important discussion and made several key adjustments to the game plan. The focus was to lock down BHS’s dangerous key forward while also introducing a sweeper role through the midfield. The changes were executed perfectly throughout the second half.

SPC Green came out red hot after halftime, with every player lifting their intensity and following the new structures brilliantly. Hugh Farrell was outstanding in defence, dominating his role and helping lock down the backline. The midfield group understood how important two-way running would be in the second half and worked tirelessly both offensively and defensively.

Buster Argall was dominant through the midfield all day, bursting through packs and driving the ball forward with strength and determination. Up forward, Jett Winduss started to find form, kicking 2 goals across the second half, including a brilliant snap goal set up by Jackson Garnett. However, he was not the only forward causing problems, as both Jake Martin and Zayne Tandy were also outstanding, kicking 2 goals each and providing a strong target inside 50.

Baxter Byvoet also played a great role by constantly presenting as an option across the half-forward line, helping link the play and create attacking opportunities. In the ruck, Jimmy Franc gave absolutely everything for the team, competing strongly all day and producing tremendous second efforts around the ground. His hard work and follow up efforts helped lift the side throughout the second half.

Late in the third quarter and throughout the fourth, Dyson Pavitt played an important role on the wing with excellent two way running, helping link defence into attack and maintaining pressure around the contest.

Overall, SPC Green showed tremendous resilience after a slow start. The second-half turnaround was built on teamwork, discipline, and hard work, with every player contributing to a fantastic performance against Ballarat High School.

Billy Twaits

SPC Green Junior Coach

Ballarat Grammar 7 – 7 – 49                               Defeated                          SPC Blue 3 – 4 – 22

Goal Kickers: SPC Blue: Zach Hose 2, Robbie Rawlings.

Best Players: SPC Blue: Lachlan Anderson, Jack Watkins, Hugo Gould, Zach Hose, Grover Hains.

As the boys of SPC Blue collected their football jumpers from outside the gym on Wednesday afternoon, Mr Miller offered a parting observation:

“I fear some precipitation may be imminent…”

 Prophetic words. 

By the time SPC Blue alighted in Forrest Street and made the walk to the windswept expanses of the Ballarat Grammar Back Oval, the heavens had begun their slow, inevitable opening. 

With the oval slightly smaller than regulation, both coaches agreed to run with 16 players on the ground - a convenient arrangement, given SPC Blue had exactly 16 players.

And then it began. Both the match… and the deluge.

What followed was not rain. It was something beyond rain - the sort of vertical ocean that makes you question whether the Bureau of Meteorology has a classification above “heavy.” 

Despite the conditions, the boys from both sides embraced the challenge with grit, humour and an admirable level of skill given the ball had the tactile properties of a bar of soap.

The first quarter was played in conditions best described as “biblical.” The ball skidded, splashed, and occasionally floated. Grammar settled slightly quicker, using the breeze and territory to their advantage. SPC Blue fought back bravely and ended the quarter one major score the better of Grammar, having scored 2.1.13 to Grammar’s 1.1.7.

My scoresheet quickly transformed into a sodden, inky abstract artwork, and when I asked the Grammar coach whether he was keeping score, he indicated that he too had abandoned his paper scoresheet and had resorted to using a whiteboard to record the score.

In the second quarter, with the rain somehow intensifying - a feat previously thought impossible - SPC Blue lifted their work rate around the contest. Tackling pressure surged, repeat efforts increased, and the boys began to adapt to the conditions, hacking the ball forward and locking it in. Several strong passages of play saw SPC Blue generate scoring opportunities and wrestle back momentum. Grammar, however, remained composed and continued to counterpunch effectively.

By the third term, the oval resembled a shallow lake. Players splashed through puddles, boots squelched, and every possession was earned through sheer determination. Both teams traded territory in a grinding, low‑scoring quarter where effort mattered more than finesse. SPC Blue produced some of their best defensive efforts of the match, repeatedly repelling Grammar attacks and keeping the contest alive heading into the final break.

During the third quarter, Grammar’s Head of Sport suggested that, in the interests of the welfare of players, umpires, parents and coaches, the match be concluded at three-quarter time. This suggestion was agreed to with equal parts of reluctance and relief.

After the match, adversity had not yet abandoned the players, as they still needed to remove skin-tight, sodden jumpers, and untie football boot laces with fingers that lost almost all of their useful dexterity at some time during the preceding three-quarters.

It was a match played in extraordinary conditions, but one that showcased the character, humour, and determination of SPC Blue. The boys handled the harsh conditions superbly, supported one another throughout, and represented the College with pride. In many ways, the result of the match became secondary to the experience itself.

A memorable afternoon - even if most of us are still trying to dry out…

Mr Morris

SPC Junior Blue Coach

SPC Junior Blue 21 – 6 – 132               Defeated           BHS Green 0 – 0 – 0

Goal Kickers: Charlie Clarke 5, Sidney Porter 3, Hugh Landry 3, Jack Watkins 2, Maximus Powell 2, Jai Britt 2, Thomas Bowden 2, Lachlan Anderson, Grover Hains, Harvey Sims.

Best Players: Charlie Clarke, Hugh Landry, Sidney Porter, Maximus Powell, Grover Hains, Jai Britt

Round 5 of the 2026 BAS Junior Football season saw SPC Blue travel to the Ballarat High School Back Oval to take on BHS Green in difficult and constantly changing conditions. With illness and injuries impacting availability, SPC Blue entered the match with just 17 players, while BHS Green had 18 on the ground and 2 on the bench.

Captain Jack Watkins lost the toss, with BHS Green electing to kick to the eastern end of the ground, leaving SPC Blue to attack the western end in the opening quarter.

A steady, drizzly rain greeted both sides at the opening bounce, creating slippery conditions and making clean ball handling difficult throughout the early stages of the afternoon. Despite the wet and uncomfortable conditions, SPC Blue produced one of its most dominant opening quarters of the season. The midfield combination of Hugh Landry, Grover Hains, and Sidney Porter repeatedly burst through the middle of the ground, generating relentless forward entries and placing BHS Green under enormous pressure.

Inside forward 50, Charlie Clarke proved almost impossible to contain. Playing with confidence and composure, Charlie continually found space in dangerous positions and capitalised superbly in front of goal, booting four majors for the quarter. Sidney Porter also added a goal as SPC Blue stormed to 5.1.31, while BHS Green was held scoreless at 0.0.0.

Such was Charlie Clarke’s dominance during the opening term that, when asked at quarter time how many goals he had kicked, Charlie himself appeared genuinely unsure of the total.

The second quarter brought a dramatic tactical reshuffle from SPC Blue. We experimented by effectively turning the board upside down, with several players finding themselves in entirely unfamiliar positions. Full backs became full forwards, midfielders rotated deep into defence, and players embraced the opportunity to test themselves in new roles.

As the rain eased and the sun briefly emerged from behind the clouds, BHS Green’s competitiveness also lifted noticeably. Their pressure around the contest intensified, and despite the scoreboard remaining firmly in SPC Blue’s favour, the game became far more fiercely contested. SPC Blue nevertheless continued to capitalise on opportunities, adding goals through Jack Watkins, Lachlan Anderson, Maximus Powell, Jai Britt, Thomas Bowden, and Charlie Clarke to extend the lead to 11.2.68 at half time.

The third quarter showcased excellent leadership from captain Jack Watkins. Given responsibility for the team board Jack organised the magnets superbly and ensured SPC Blue maintained its discipline and intensity despite the increasingly one-sided scoreboard.

Hugh Landry continued his outstanding afternoon with two goals for the term, while Maximus Powell, Jai Britt, and Thomas Bowden also added majors. SPC Blue piled on another 4.0.24 while once again keeping BHS Green scoreless.

By the final quarter, BHS Green’s numbers had been further impacted, with three of their players having to leave the match at three-quarter time. In the spirit of fairness and sportsmanship, SPC Blue evened the numbers, with both teams playing 15-a-side for the remainder of the contest.

Even with reduced numbers on the field, SPC Blue continued to play energetic and attacking football. Sidney Porter added two more goals to cap an excellent individual performance, while Grover Hains, Jack Watkins, Hugh Landry, and Harvey Sims also found the goals. SPC Blue finished strongly with 6.4.40 in the final quarter.

At full time, SPC Blue completed an outstanding four-quarter performance, combining relentless pressure, excellent ball movement, and impressive adaptability despite entering the match undermanned.

Mr Morris

SPC Junior Blue Coach

Damascus College 13 – 11- 89         Defeated          SPC Intermediate Gold 3 – 3 – 21

Goal Kickers: Billy Borase, Will Richardson, James Craig

Best Players: Nic Ward, Louie Britt, Isaac Thomas, Riley Anstess, Billy Borlase

St Patrick’s College Intermediate Gold were defeated by a physically stronger Damascus College side on Tuesday evening on the smaller St Pat’s Hill oval. In a match played with excellent sportsmanship, Damascus effectively used their size and strength to gain the upper hand throughout much of the contest.

Nic Ward competed strongly in the ruck, matching Damascus’ physical presence and consistently providing our midfield brigade with first use of the football. Around the ground, Louie Britt was outstanding, particularly in defence. His drive and run from deep in the backline created several important scoring opportunities for our midfielders and high half forwards, while his strong hands were showcased through several impressive, contested marks.

Isaac Thomas also produced an exceptional performance. His team-first attitude, combined with his ability to break open congestion through his physicality, was a standout feature of his game. Riley Anstess added creativity and flair, using the football cleverly to bring teammates into the contest. Riley’s athleticism was also on full display, with his exceptional leap nearly producing mark of the year in the third quarter.

While SPC Gold were ultimately beaten by the better side on the day, the team’s resilience and determination never wavered. Their persistence was best highlighted in the final quarter, where they outscored Damascus by two points.

A special mention must also go to Jack Guertz and Jinup Lual, who demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship by volunteering to play for Damascus when they were two players short.

Howard Clark

Acting SPC Intermediate Gold Coach

Senior

2nd XVIII

Damascus College 5 - 2 – 32    Defeated      St Patrick’s College 4 – 7 – 31             

Goal Kickers: Sam Pike 3, Mitch Martin 1.

Best Players: Sam Pike, Archie Purtle, Henry Liston, Kaelan Stewart, Oliver Daykin, Nash Cleary.

On Tuesday, 5 May, we faced Damascus College in Round 2. The match began with St Patrick’s kicking into a slight breeze, which allowed Damascus to apply early pressure. In what proved to be a tightly contested and low-scoring affair, both sides found it difficult to make a significant impact on the scoreboard in the opening quarter.

St Patrick’s responded strongly in the second term, controlling possession and consistently driving the ball forward. With accurate kicking in front of goal, we capitalised on our limited opportunities and established a narrow advantage heading into half-time, leading two goals to one.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with our boys continuing to dominate possession despite facing the challenge of kicking into the breeze. Our midfield benefited greatly from the outstanding ruck work of Kaelan Stewart; however, Damascus was able to make the most of their opportunities, adding three goals to one for the quarter and taking the lead into the final term.

In the last quarter, the boys continued to attack with determination and intent, consistently taking the game on. Unfortunately, inaccurate kicking in front of goal prevented us from converting our dominance into scoreboard pressure. Despite controlling much of the play, we were unable to fully capitalise, allowing Damascus to remain in the contest and ultimately secure the victory.

There were strong contributors across the ground, with Sam Pike, Archie Purtle, and Henry Liston all playing significant roles in winning possession and driving the team forward. It was extremely pleasing to see the boys embrace their instructions, play with courage, and continue developing their game style. We look forward to building on this performance as we continue to learn, improve, and progress throughout the season.

Dean Romeril

SPC 2nd XVIII Coach

St Patrick’s College 14 – 5 – 89           Defeated         Damascus College White 9 - 5 – 59

Goal Kickers: Seb Zagame 3, Chaz Smith 2, Jacob Young 2, Kaelan Stewart 1, Ryder Gould 1, Henry Liston 1, Marc Tedcastle 1, Oliver Daykin 1, Juraiya Calma-Long 1, Jameson Reid-McLeod 1.

Best Players: Henry Liston, Seb Zagame, Sam Pike, Lachlan Rea, Hugh Weiderman, Juraiya Calma-Long.

On Tuesday, 12 May, we faced Damascus College White in Round 3. Damascus capitalised on a slow start from St Patrick’s, applying early pressure and forcing our boys onto the back foot. In what proved to be a low-scoring contest, both sides struggled to maximise their opportunities. While we were able to implement our desired style of play, our ball use lacked polish at times, allowing Damascus to create turnovers and build momentum.

St Patrick’s responded strongly in the second quarter, controlling possession and consistently driving the ball forward. Improved accuracy in front of goal ensured we capitalised on our opportunities, and the scoreboard reflected the tightly contested nature of the match heading into half-time.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with our boys continuing to dominate possession but at times struggling to translate that control into scoreboard pressure. The midfield received excellent service from Kaelan Stewart and Jacob Young; however, Damascus read our ruck work effectively and was able to generate forward movement of their own.

To the boys’ credit, they continued to take the game on and attack with intent throughout the final quarter. There was a clear emphasis on being stronger around the contest, and unlike the previous week, we were able to make the most of our opportunities. As a result, our dominance was finally reflected on the scoreboard. A five-goal final quarter put the game beyond doubt and secured an impressive result for the team.

We had valuable contributors across the ground, with Henry Liston, Sam Pike, and Seb Zagame all playing influential roles in winning possession and driving the side forward. It was extremely pleasing to see the boys embrace the challenge, follow instructions, and continue to play with confidence and purpose. We look forward to building on this performance as we continue to learn, develop, and improve throughout the season.

Dean Romeril

SPC 2nd XVIII Coach

St Patrick’s College    10-12-72       Defeated      Ballarat Clarendon College 6-5-41

Goal Kickers: Chaz Smith 4, Charlie Salter 2, Kaelan Stewart 2, Jacob Young 1, Oliver Daykin 1.

Best Players: Oliver Daykin, Chaz Smith, Charlie Salter, Kaelan Stewart, Lachlan Rea, Mitch Martin, Liam McCormack

This week, we travelled to face Clarendon in our Seconds fixture. With a strong breeze favouring the school end, we won the toss and elected to take advantage of the conditions early. Despite creating several attacking opportunities, we were unable to fully capitalise on the scoreboard and went into the first break holding a narrow one-goal lead.

The second quarter followed a similar pattern, with Clarendon using the smaller ground dimensions to create a congested and highly contested game. A number of basic skill errors prevented us from converting possession into meaningful scoreboard pressure, and inaccurate kicking again proved costly. Nevertheless, we extended our lead to two goals by half-time. Pleasingly, the boys continued to take the game on and looked to attack through the corridor, although our own mistakes allowed Clarendon to remain within striking distance.

We emerged strongly after the main break and controlled much of the third quarter in our forward half. While we were initially wasteful in front of goal, once we were able to open up the forward 50, we created multiple scoring opportunities and added four goals before three-quarter time. Chaz Smith and Charlie Salter brought great energy in attack, while Jacob Young provided a strong presence up forward that helped generate scoring chances.

The final quarter was another tight contest, with inaccuracy again proving costly at times. Although Clarendon won the quarter, we were able to maintain our advantage and secure the result. Oliver Daykin, Lachie Rae and Mitch Martin were all influential throughout the game, providing strong drive and run forward of the ball. Kaelan Stewart worked tirelessly through the midfield and consistently gave us first use at the stoppages, while Liam McCormack provided important rebound from half-back and took the game on with his pace.

The group continues to work hard for one another and is developing a strong team-first brand of football. With a bye next week, we now look forward to our next challenge in two weeks’ time.

Dean Romeril

SPC 2nd XVIII Coach

SPC White (Year 10) 2nd XVIII 11–20–86        Defeated         Ballarat Grammar 2–2–14

Goal Kickers: Jack Ward 3, Jules Stephens 2, Joel Card 2, Logan Vawdrey, Joe Knobel, Charlie Hedt, Henry Hopkinson

Best Players: Jack Ward, Tyson Green, Logan Vawdrey, George Farrell, Ned Oppenhuis, Louie McDonald

SPC White crossed the lake on Tuesday afternoon for a fierce rivalry clash against Ballarat Grammar, greeted by perfect conditions for football and an opportunity for several boys to step up with a few key players unavailable.

From the opening bounce, SPC controlled territory and looked dangerous around the contest. Jack Ward set the tone early, dominating through the midfield and driving the ball forward repeatedly. Defensively, we were a little loose at times, but Joey Knobel and Logan Vawdrey stood tall under pressure, saving several critical goals. Despite having almost all the play in the first quarter, composure in front of goal let us down, with the boys managing seven behinds and failing to fully capitalise on their dominance and keeping Grammar within reach.

At quarter time, the message was clear. The coaches challenged the group’s work rate, demanding stronger two-way running and greater support for the defenders. To the boys’ credit, they responded immediately.

The second quarter saw a lift in intensity and effort right across the ground. The running game improved, the pressure lifted, and the goals finally began to come. Ned was outstanding on the wing, providing strong drive and quality entries inside 50. While SPC had control of the game, the next challenge was to open up the field more, with much of the play still being trapped down one side of the ground.

By the third quarter, the game had completely opened up and SPC began to play some exciting football. The boys started changing lanes, taking the game on through the corridor, and linking up with confidence. Tyson Green thrived in the open style of play, becoming heavily involved in transition and setting up numerous forward opportunities. 

Jack Ward continued his dominant performance, while George Farrell gave the midfield first use around stoppages. Louie McDonald provided a fantastic outlet on the wing with his run and work rate. Despite the improved ball movement, inaccuracy still lingered, with SPC kicking 3 goals and 4 behinds for the term.

The final quarter challenge was simple — kick more goals than points. Once again, the boys finished strongly with several excellent passages of team football and continued attacking the game right to the final siren. SPC added 4 goals and 5 behinds in the last quarter, narrowly missing the goal of greater accuracy, but the style of football and effort were extremely pleasing.

There were plenty of positives to come from the match, particularly the response after quarter time and the willingness of several players to step up and embrace bigger roles. At the same time, the boys know there is still plenty to improve on as the season progresses.

Attention now turns to next week’s clash against Damascus — always our toughest rival in the competition. The boys are looking forward to the challenge.

Carly Twaits

SPC White 2nd XVIII

SPC White (Year 10) 2nd XVIII 10 – 7 - 67       Defeated      Damascus College 4 – 7 – 31

Goal Kickers: Nic Ward 3, Louie McDonald 2, Jules Stephens, Tyson Green, Jed Gurnett, Griff Edwards, Archie Wilkie

Best Players: Archie Wilkie, Griff Edwards, Tyson Green, Jack Ward, Oscar Spratling, Louie McDonald

Tuesday, SPC White returned to the fortress on Main Oval with a fresher side, but still one carrying its fair share of outs and injuries. Before the first bounce, the boys were given three clear focuses for the game: voice, two-way run, and first gives. These were the areas we believed would allow us to take the game on, especially in conditions that looked suited to our speed, cleanliness with ball in hand, and our run and carry.

We also had the privilege of recognising two boys with the captaincy for the day. Jack Ward was given the role for his ongoing on-field leadership and his ability to bring those around him up, while Jack Stringer, finally making his debut after injury, was rewarded for his commitment to the program, and the leadership he has continued to show. It was a deserved moment for both boys.

Standing across from us was perhaps our biggest test of the season so far: Damascus, and their Year 12 side. We knew they would be bigger, stronger, and more experienced, and with a breeze against us in the opening term, the challenge was there from the start.

The first quarter saw us take a narrow lead, kicking 2 goals and 3 behinds to Damascus’ 1 goal and 2. However, despite being in front, it did not necessarily feel like we had control of the game. We were sloppy defensively, with our backs pushing too high and getting hurt badly on turnover. Damascus looked dangerous whenever they were able to break through, and it was George Farrell and Joe Knobel who were especially important in trying to slow the game down and hold things together behind the ball. At the first change, we led by 7 points, but there was plenty to fix.

The second quarter brought improvement, though we still looked a little flat at times. We added another 3 goals and 2 behinds while again holding Damascus to 1 goal and 2, extending the margin without fully putting the game away. Jack Ward and Ned Oppenhuis were enormous through this period, controlling large parts of the game through their effort, composure and willingness to lift when the side needed it. Angus Verberne and his grunt through a rotation in the middle was also crucial at this time. Their heroics helped keep us ahead, even when the overall performance still felt below the standard we are trying to build.

At half time, the message was simple: stop congesting the skinny side of the ground- spread play out, and tighten up, and put the foot down. We had the lead, but we had not played our best football. We were rushing with the ball, burning players through poor communication, and not using our voice anywhere near the level required. The boys were reminded that our value in voice had to be more than just words before the game. We needed to be loud all the time—celebrating the little things, giving advice, calling boys back, and getting around each other.

The third quarter was where we started to see some of our best football. We added 2 goals and 1 behind to Damascus’ 1 goal and 2, and the game began to open up. Oscar Spratling, as always, showed outstanding fight around the ground and in contests, giving us repeated efforts when the ball was there to be won. Louie McDonald was consistent all day, with incredible run and finish, while himself and Tyson Green added some magic around goal. 

Just as importantly, Tyson once again showed his consistency in playing team-first football—getting to the right spots, doing the unrewarded work, and doing whatever was necessary for the side. Then came Archie Wilkie, who not only dominated the ruck all day, but also took an incredible mark over a pack before going back and finishing truly. It was the sort of moment that lifts a side.

At three-quarter time, the coaches challenged the group hard. The message was clear: if you are not willing to give 110% for the whole quarter, for the full 15 minutes, then you come off. Anything less is unacceptable to what we are building. We also spoke about slowing the game down. Too often, we were rushing and pulling the trigger too early, instead of holding the ball, waiting for the right option, and trusting our structure.

And boy, did they deliver.

The final quarter was the response we were looking for. We put them to bed. The ball use was elite, the running improved, and the boys began to show the control and maturity that had been missing at different stages earlier in the game. We kicked 3 goals and 1 behind to Damascus’ 1 goal and 1, finishing the match as 36-point winners. Nic Ward was sensational across the game and showed his strength around the contest and forward of the ball, finishing with 3 goals in a powerful performance.

Across the day, Griff Edwards was elite with his transition work and clean use of the footy, constantly helping link us between the arcs and giving us composure when we needed it, a real showing of his skill and IQ, and a true best-on performance. Archie Wilkie was dominant in the ruck from start to finish, giving us first look and competing strongly against a more senior-bodied opposition. While the scoreboard showed that we led at every change, the match was a genuine reality check. The scores stayed close enough for long periods that it never felt completely comfortable, and Damascus made us earn everything.

This was our smallest winning margin to date, but possibly one of the most important wins so far. We are playing in a senior competition as an intermediate side, and our boys are regularly coming up against teams that are older, stronger, faster and more experienced. Yet once again, when challenged, they found a way to put the team first and deliver.

A strong win, a needed test, and another step forward. Plenty to improve, but more than plenty to like. 

Carly Twaits, Sam Cue, Rhys Grace,

SPC White 2nd XVIII 

BAS 1st XVIII

St Patrick’s College 12–7 – 79           Defeated                          Monivae College 4 – 5 – 29

Goal Kickers: Gus O’Donnell 4, Logan Purcell 3, Xavier Coutts 2, Tyson Walsh, Seb Zegame, Kyan Vaughan 1

Best Players: Xavier Coutts, Lachlan Lloyd, Gus O’Donnell, Archie Purtle, Seb Zegame, Logan Purcell

On a sunny afternoon on our home deck, we welcomed Monivae College Hamilton for an important contest.

After winning the toss, captain Gus O’Donnell elected to kick with a favourable breeze toward the Eyre Street end. The opening quarter was fiercely contested, with both sides attacking the contest strongly. St Patrick’s College was first to capitalise on the scoreboard, thanks to an impressive forward venture from fullback Walsh, who converted a clever goal from 40 metres out. SPC continued to build momentum throughout the term, finishing the first quarter strongly with a 26–7 lead.

The second quarter saw Monivae respond with greater intensity, making the most of the breeze and applying significant pressure. SPC drifted slightly from its trademark style, allowing Monivae to get to the ball first and outwork us in key areas. However, our resilient backline, led superbly by the energetic Joey Wesley and the composed Juraiya Camala-Long, stood firm under pressure. Their efforts ensured SPC remained in control, and an important goal against the wind allowed us to head into half-time with a 32–23 advantage.

Following a strong half-time message to return to true SPC football, the boys responded emphatically. Using the full width of the ground and embracing a team-first approach, SPC’s ball movement became a highlight. Captain O’Donnell led from the front, while the crafty Purcell provided strong support in attack. The move of the hard-running and skilful Xav Coutts onto the wing proved instrumental, as his influence helped spark the team’s dominant third quarter. SPC produced an outstanding five-goal term, extending the margin to 58–23 heading into the final break.

The final quarter brought difficult conditions, with rain and strong winds taking hold as spectators scrambled for cover. Despite the challenging weather, SPC continued to assert control. Ruckman Lloyd was outstanding, giving our midfielders first use and allowing them to dominate the contest. Our boys controlled the majority of play in the forward half, even against the elements, adding two more goals while Monivae managed one.

In an impressive all-round team performance, St Patrick’s College secured a commanding 50-point victory.

Sam Hopper and Sean Willmott

BAS 1st XVIII Coaches

ACC Football

St Patrick's College 1st XVIII     8 – 8 – 56    Defeated Whitefriars  6 – 7 – 43

Goal Kickers: Finn McInnes 3, Kai Watkins 1, Noah James 1, Cooper Besler 1, Lachie Lloyd 1, Joe Wesley 1

Best Players: Archie Todd, Albie Cheeseman, Noah James, Zavier Thomas, Cooper Besler, Sioeli Fangaloka

On what was once again a magnificent autumn day, the main oval looked a treat for the clash with Whitefriars. We welcomed several debutants, with Xavier Coutts, Joe Wesley and Finn McInnes earning their St Pat's ACC debuts.

The first quarter was a slow start for St Pats. We fumbled the football and struggled to get our game flowing early. Ollie Potter stood tall in defence, rebounding consistently, while Hamish Birkett worked hard on the wing and used the ball well. As the quarter progressed, our ball movement improved, with effective use by both foot and hand, switching play and stretching the Whitefriars defence. However, our inside 50 entries proved challenging, with Whitefriars flooding numbers back. Despite limited reward, goals to Finn McInnes and Kai Watkins kept us in front, though we could easily have been several goals up.

The second quarter was a complete contrast. Our trademark St Pats style—strong contested football and relentless tackle pressure—fell away. Missed tackles, poor skill execution, and lack of discipline cost us. Whitefriars continued to push numbers behind the ball, but we failed to adjust, allowing them to transition easily from defence to attack and score heavily.

At halftime, the group had a frank discussion about returning to the St Pats way. The response in the third quarter was encouraging. With a slight breeze, our effort lifted significantly. Albie Cheeseman and Hunter Vansomeran showed great courage in defence, taking strong marks that inspired their teammates. Ball movement improved, and goals to Noah James and Cooper Besler, along with the tireless forward pressure from Josh Elliott and Archie McLeod, helped bring us back into the contest. By three-quarter time, we had reduced the margin to just one goal.

Facing the breeze in the final quarter, the challenge was clear. Several positional changes were made, with Joe Wesley and Lachie Lloyd pushed forward, Zavier Thomas into the ruck, and Archie Todd into the midfield. The response was outstanding. Thomas provided strong effort in the ruck, giving our midfielders—Noah James, Sioeli Fangloka, Cooper Besler and Archie Todd—first use at stoppages.

Finn McInnes led the charge with two crucial goals, including a superb banana from in front of the pavilion, while Lachie Lloyd and Joe Wesley added one each. With dominance in possession and a real toughness around the ball, St Pats powered home to secure a hard-fought and memorable victory.

This was a tremendous team effort and a credit to the resilience of the group. To fight back from adversity and claim the win highlights the character within this team and may well prove to be a defining moment in the season.

Heath Pritchard

SPC ACC 1st XVIII Coach

Parade College 15 – 5 – 95                   Defeated          St Patrick's College 6 – 7 – 43

Goal Kickers: Aden McGuigan 2, Noah James 1, Lachie Petrie 1, Cooper Besler 1, 

Sioeli Fangaloka 1

Best Players: Lachie Pring, Lachie Petrie, Aden McGuigan, Levi Munyard, Noah James, Kai Watkins

After a wet morning, the rain cleared just as we arrived at Parade College to take on one of the ACC’s premier sides. Gus O’Donnell, following strong form in the BAS 1st XVIII, earned his ACC debut.

The first quarter was played at an intense, finals-like pace. Pressure was high across the ground, with both sides strong in the contest and hard at the football. Our boys played a very physical brand, but at times our over-exuberance to tackle meant too many players were drawn to the ball carrier, allowing Parade to release by hand to free players both behind and outside the stoppage. Kai Watkins started well on the wing, while Angus Morgan was excellent in defence, repelling multiple Parade attacks. Despite having a reasonable share of general play, the scoreboard didn’t reflect our effort, with Parade capitalising each time they went forward.

The second quarter saw St Pat’s with the wind, but we were unable to take full advantage. Parade’s ball movement was sharp, particularly through the corridor—an area we had identified pre-game as a focus to restrict. Unfortunately, we were unable to limit this effectively, and they were able to gain significant territory when in possession. That said, our backline held up strongly, led by Lachie Pring, who did an outstanding job on Parade’s key forward and maintained this standard all game. Noah James continued his strong form, kicking our only goal of the quarter.

At halftime, we regrouped and identified key areas for improvement: lowering our eyes when entering the forward 50 rather than bombing the ball, holding tackles to prevent opposition release, and staying composed under pressure. To the players’ credit, there was noticeable improvement in these areas during the second half.

The third quarter again saw us generate plenty of play, but Parade’s efficiency in front of goal was exceptional, while we struggled to convert our opportunities. On multiple occasions, our tackle pressure looked likely to be rewarded, but Parade’s strength allowed them to break tackles and keep the ball moving. Lachie Petrie kicked a well-deserved goal and was our most dangerous forward all day, while Cooper Besler added a strong captain’s goal.

The final quarter was clearly our best. Our midfielders gained greater control around stoppages, and Sioeli Fangaloka lifted his work rate to win multiple possessions and kick a goal. Aden McGuigan continued his strong ACC form with another goal, and Levi Munyard finished the game well. Parade added a few late goals that ultimately flattered the margin.

Whilst not the result we were after, there were many positive takeaways against one of the top sides in the competition. The scoreline does not fully reflect the effort, competitiveness, and periods of control we had throughout the game. There are clear areas for growth, and the group will take valuable learnings from this performance to take into future games.

Heath Pritchard

SPC ACC 1st XVIII Coach