The John James Medal is the pinnacle of the 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College football calendar, celebrating the College鈥檚 proud football tradition and recognising its highest individual honour.

Named in honour of legendary Old Collegian John James, who attended 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College from 1948-52 before going on to play for Carlton and win the Brownlow Medal, the evening provides an opportunity to celebrate not only individual achievement, but the collective contribution of every player, coach, volunteer and supporter.

A special guest with a familiar connection

This year鈥檚 event was made even more special with former 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College student and North Melbourne and West Coast 乐播传媒视频 great Drew Petrie (SPC 1995-2000) returning to the College as guest speaker.

A 332-game 乐播传媒视频 veteran, Petrie reflected on his journey from a young footballer watching the senior games at 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 to establishing a distinguished career at the highest level.

He spoke fondly of his time at the College, recalling his desire as a Year 7 student to one day wear the famous 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 football jumper.

鈥淚 just loved watching the firsts and I always wanted to play in it,鈥� Drew said.

For Petrie, the impact of his time at 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 extended well beyond football. He reflected on the friendships, values and experiences formed during his school years and the lasting influence they have had throughout his life.

鈥淒on鈥檛 forget where you came from,鈥� he told students. 鈥淵our family environment, your schooling environment, your community environment is where you will form so many of your values and experiences as a kid that鈥檒l hold you in good stead for the rest of your life.鈥�

He also spoke about the enduring friendships formed during his time at the College.

鈥淢y best mates are SPC boys. They鈥檙e my best mates and they still are.”

听

More than a game

Petrie encouraged the young men in the room to recognise that football is about far more than what happens on the field.

鈥淪port is such a great platform and vehicle for friendships and learning within sporting environments,鈥� he said. 鈥淭hey helped me later in life.鈥�

“What you’re learning here and the experiences that you’re having at St Pat’s, you’ll carry them for the rest of your life.”

His message of resilience and personal growth also resonated with the students, particularly when reflecting on his own development as a leader throughout his 乐播传媒视频 career.

鈥淚 grew as a leader through learning the hard way, and that鈥檚 okay. As long as you鈥檙e learning, and you鈥檝e got good people around you to help point you in the right direction.鈥�

听

The famous colours of the famous school

Principal Steven O鈥機onnor said the evening was an important opportunity to recognise the contribution of every student who had represented the College.

鈥淭his evening provides us with the opportunity to recognise the commitment, perseverance and achievements of the many young men who have proudly represented the green, white and blue throughout the 2026 season,鈥� Mr O鈥機onnor said.

鈥淓very player who has worn the famous colours of 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College has contributed to a tradition built over generations through hard work, courage, teamwork and humility.鈥�

Mr O鈥機onnor said the strength of the College鈥檚 football program extended well beyond its results on the field.

鈥淥ur football program continues to be one of the great strengths of the College, not simply because of the success achieved on the field, but because of the values it develops in our young men,鈥� he said.

鈥淭hroughout the season, our students have demonstrated resilience, discipline and a willingness to place the team before themselves. These qualities will serve them well long after their football careers have concluded.鈥�

Reflecting on the significance of the green, white and blue, Mr O鈥機onnor referenced the words of former Principal Brother O鈥橫alley, who famously described them as the ‘famous colours of the famous school.’

鈥淭hey continue to unite generations of Old Collegians and current students, creating lifelong friendships and an enduring connection to our College community,鈥� he said.

听

A second John James Medal

The evening also recognised the outstanding individual contributions made throughout the season, with Year 12 student Cooper Beseler taking out the ACC 1st XVIII Best & Fairest Award and teammate Ethan Drever claiming the prestigious John James Medal for the second consecutive year.

In doing so, Ethan joins an esteemed group of 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 footballers whose names have become part of the College鈥檚 rich sporting history.

“It’s a great honour to be awarded such a prestigious award and something I don’t take for granted,” Ethan said.

For Ethan, the strength of the football program extends well beyond the opportunities to compete.

“My favourite part of the football program at St Pat’s is the opportunities we’re given to train and play with some of our best mates, and all the coaching resources we’re able to use to develop our footy,” he said.

Ethan thanked all coaches and staff involved in the football program, as well as his parents for their support.听

He encouraged other students to听“never lose the fun and passion for the game”.

“Ultimately, that’s why you started playing footy in the first place so always enjoy playing and having fun,” he said.

2026 Award Winners

Juniors

Year 7听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听

SPC Keniry Best and Fairest: Brody Bauska

SPC Ryan Best and Fairest: Gus Fenwick & Jed Hynes

SPC Galvin Best and Fairest: Lenny Palmer

SPC Nunan Best and Fairest: Ned Hines

Year 8

SPC Blue: Best and Fairest: Charlie Clarke

SPC Gold: Best and Fairest: Aidan Speechley

SPC White: Best and Fairest: Tom Howard

SPC Green: Best and Fairest: Max Edwards

Intermediate

SPC Blue Best and Fairest: Harvey Gittins

SPC Gold听Best and Fairest: Isaac Thomas

SPC White听Best and Fairest: Charlie Toohey

Jim Toohey Perpetual Trophy: Charlie Toohey

Seniors

2^nd XVIII White (Year 9 & 10) Best and Fairest: Jack Ward and Tyson Green

2^nd XVIII SPC Green Best and Fairest: Angus McNamara

Greg Dowd Trophy: Angus McNamara

1^st XVIII

BAS SPC 1^st XVIII Best and Fairest: Nash Armstrong

Year 10 Most Promising Player: Dex Rizzoli

2026 John James Medal (Best on Ground in Respect Cup)听Ethan Drever

ACC Team of the Year: Cooper Beseler and Noah James

2026 W.T. O鈥橫alley ACC SPC 1^st XVIII Best and Fairest: Cooper Beseler

Introduced for Year 10 students in 2026, the subjects are the only dedicated 乐播传媒视频 and Basketball curriculum offerings of their kind in Ballarat. Demand has been so strong that the application process was highly competitive, with the College already exploring opportunities to expand the program in 2027 and beyond.

The 乐播传媒视频 subject builds on the success of the Liam Duggan Academy, established at the College in 2023, while the Basketball subject was developed following the success of the College鈥檚 United States Basketball Tour in December 2024 and the continued growth of basketball within the school community.

Led by Head of Sport Jason Lappin (乐播传媒视频) and VCE Physical Education teacher Jarrod Fryar (Basketball)鈥攂oth highly credentialed former players and coaches鈥攖he subjects combine practical skill development with classroom learning, covering areas such as sports psychology, performance analysis, leadership, strength and conditioning, recovery and wellbeing.

Students embrace Specialist Sport program

Mr Lappin said the early success of the program reflected by the enthusiasm of students and the College’s commitment to innovation.

“This program has given students a genuine opportunity to learn the game at a deeper level while also developing as people,” he said.

“We are seeing students engaged in analysis, training methods, leadership and preparation in a way that goes well beyond traditional sport participation. The standard of effort and application has been outstanding, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how quickly the students have embraced it.”

Deputy Principal – Academic Culture Carol Roberts said the programs were designed to support students in an area many are deeply passionate about.

鈥淪o many of our boys love their sport and we developed this program as a way of further supporting their passion through a curriculum dedicated to sporting excellence,鈥� Ms Roberts said.

鈥淭he program helps students lift the bar in terms of their skill, performance and gameplay, while also recognising that many are interested in pursuing post-school pathways in the sporting industry.

鈥淚t is a way of nurturing their passion for sport while opening their eyes to the many career opportunities that exist within such a dynamic and exciting field.鈥�

Holistic learning experience for students

Importantly, selection is not based solely on sporting ability. Students must demonstrate strong effort, behaviour and commitment across all aspects of College life to earn a place in the classes.

For Year 10 student Jules Stephen, the 乐播传媒视频 subject has been one of the highlights of the year.

鈥淚 absolutely loved the 乐播传媒视频 class,鈥� he said.

鈥淲e came together as a team and learned so much more than just football skills. We studied sports psychology, analysed game footage, learned recovery techniques and trained in the gym like footballers.

鈥淚t has definitely strengthened my game, but it was also a lot of fun. I鈥檇 encourage younger students to give it a go because you learn a lot and really enjoy the experience.鈥�

Providing pathways for elite athletes

Mr Fryar said the Basketball subject reflected the growing success of the College鈥檚 elite basketball program, which competed at the NBA Rising Stars Qualifiers earlier this year.

鈥淭he recent success of 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College basketballers such as Lucas Byrne and Ned Renfree, who have represented Australia at junior level, has also encouraged the creation of the specialised basketball curriculum,鈥� Mr Fryar said.

鈥淭hese subjects are not only pathways for elite athletes but also provide valuable insights into the world of elite sport and the many career opportunities available within the sporting industry.鈥�

Learn more about the Specialist Sport program here.

Q: Tom, how did your rowing journey begin?

Tom: Pretty humbly, to be honest. Mum put me in a single scull for my first session and I had no idea what I was doing. I was about 15 or 20 metres from the bank, taking maybe four strokes in 45 minutes, nearly tipping the whole time鈥攁nd then I did fall in.

But I kept at it. I did a few weeks leading into that Year 10 season just to get a head start, and then I remember being named in the A crew for the first session. I couldn鈥檛 believe it鈥擨 thought it was one of the coolest things ever.

That season progressed pretty quickly. We had some good wins early, and then I remember at Hamilton we got jumped badly at the start and realised it鈥檚 a lot harder chasing than leading. We got lucky and still won, but that was a good lesson鈥攇et out in front and stay there.

Q: The 2020 Nationals were cancelled. What was that period like for you?

Tom: It was pretty bizarre. We were two weeks out, thinking we were a real chance, and then it just got taken away. I didn鈥檛 really think COVID would affect us like that.

In the off-season, I was probably sitting around sixth or seventh in the rankings, so it was a case of, 鈥淗ow do I move up?鈥� I remember counting down the days until the next term鈥攖here were about 97鈥攁nd just trying to do something every day.

Living close to Austin Reiner helped a lot. We trained together pretty much every day鈥攅rgs, gym, sometimes even doubling up sessions. I felt like I had to prove myself to the older boys and the coaches, so anything extra I could do, I did.

Q: That led into a successful 2021 season and a National Championship. What did you take from that experience?

Tom: 听It was awesome. I finally got that taste of Nationals that we missed the year before鈥攖he standard, the atmosphere, everything around it.

We didn鈥檛 get everything right. In the Under 19 Coxed Four, we had to come through the repechage after finishing fourth in the heat, but that actually helped. We fixed what we got wrong and then performed when it mattered.

Winning the Schoolboys Coxed Four was pretty special. That whole season, and that crew, is something we still talk about now.

Q: How did those lessons carry into your pathway beyond school, including Australian selection?

Tom: There were definitely setbacks. COVID hit again, we missed another Nationals, and there were a few moments where it would have been easy to get frustrated.

But then I got a call from a coach in Melbourne asking if I wanted to come fill a seat in an eight for trials. I hadn鈥檛 really thought about Australian selection at that point鈥擨 was just focused on school rowing.

I went down, ended up staying in the crew, and then suddenly I鈥檓 filling out forms thinking, 鈥淚 don鈥檛 even have a passport.鈥� A couple of weeks later, I鈥檓 telling Mum I need one because we鈥檙e going to Italy. That whole transition happened pretty quickly.

Q: What is it like stepping into an international campaign?

Tom: 听It鈥檚 interesting鈥攁t the end of the day, it鈥檚 still just another race. You line up, there are a few other crews next to you, and you鈥檝e got 2,000 metres to race.

The big thing for me was consistency. I set a goal not to miss a session, which is harder than it sounds with the volume we鈥檙e doing鈥�200km a week, plus gym and everything else.

By the time I got overseas, I had confidence knowing I鈥檇 done the work.

Q: You had a setback with illness just before the World Championships. How did you deal with that?

Tom: Yeah, that wasn鈥檛 great timing. I got pretty sick, lost about eight kilos in a few days, and spent a few days in isolation while the rest of the crew was training.

It was a bit overwhelming, but the coach just kept reminding me that I鈥檇 done enough work leading in. Missing a few days wasn鈥檛 going to undo everything.

That鈥檚 where the consistency helps鈥攜ou鈥檝e got those kilometres in the bank.

Q: What advice would you give to the current boys?

Tom: Have confidence in your ability. I probably lacked that a bit when I was at school. But if you genuinely believe in what you鈥檙e doing, it gives you an advantage straight away鈥攂efore you even get on the water.

Q: What stands out as a highlight from your rowing career so far?

Tom: 听Winning the King鈥檚 Cup with Victoria last year was pretty special. You鈥檙e racing with Olympians, and I was one of the youngest guys in the boat. I remember going to sleep the night before just thinking, 鈥淒on鈥檛 mess it up.鈥�

We ended up winning, which was awesome.

Another one would be the Under 21 Pair at Nationals in 2024. We鈥檇 just missed Under 23 selection, came through fourth in the heat and semi, and were in the outside lane for the final against a crew that hadn鈥檛 lost in years.

About halfway through, I remember saying, 鈥淲e can win this,鈥� and we did. That was a pretty special moment鈥攋ust backing ourselves and getting it done.

As Tom prepares to represent Australia at the 2026 Under 23 World Rowing Championships, support from the 乐播传媒视频’s College community will help him continue pursuing his rowing goals on the world stage. If you would like to support, Tom’s campaign, please consider donating via . Every contribution is greatly appreciated.

Today, he is studying and rowing on scholarship at Jacksonville University in Florida, a journey that began on the water at Lake Wendouree and one that has taken Angus by surprise.

Angus was introduced to rowing at a young age, following in the footsteps of his father, brother and sister.

鈥淢y dad rowed when he was younger, and my brother and sister rowed as well,鈥� Angus said.

鈥淚 started coxing when I was about seven and then began rowing when I got to high school. It was always something I enjoyed.鈥�

Finding his place at 乐播传媒视频’s College

Recognising the strength of the SPC rowing program, Angus made the move from Ballarat High School to 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 in Year 9.

鈥淚 was really excited about the rowing program because I knew I鈥檇 be able to go a little bit further and get a bit more out of it,鈥� he said.

鈥淚 was nervous about changing schools because of friends and everything, but I became friends with all the rowing boys anyway.鈥�

Those friendships would become one of the most valuable parts of his 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 experience.

鈥淩owing gave me a connection to people and to the school that will last a lifetime,鈥� Angus said.

鈥淚t didn鈥檛 matter whether someone was a senior rower, a junior rower or a cox. You鈥檇 see people around school and always stop to say hello because you鈥檇 spent so much time together at training and regattas.鈥�

A taste of National competition

One of Angus鈥� fondest memories was representing 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 at the Australian Rowing Championships as a member of the College鈥檚 Intermediate crew.

With the national championships relocated from Sydney to Nagambie due to flooding, the crew became the first 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 Intermediate crew to compete at the event.

鈥淚t was a great experience,鈥� Angus said.

鈥淲e鈥檇 been racing against the same crews all season and then suddenly we were at nationals competing against crews from around Australia.鈥�

More importantly, the experience gave Angus a glimpse of what was possible.

鈥淚t definitely made me want to work harder and keep going back,鈥� he said.

鈥淚t made all of us hungry for more. We got that exposure and saw what it was like, and then we wanted to keep getting there.鈥�

A Head of the Lake to remember

That drive eventually led to multiple national championship appearances and one of the most memorable races of his rowing career 鈥� 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 thrilling Head of the Lake victory in 2024.

鈥淲e鈥檇 never beaten them (Ballarat Clarendon College) before, but we knew we were close,鈥� Angus recalled.

鈥淎bout 500 metres into the race I thought, 鈥楾his could be the day.鈥� We were right next to each other the whole way and trading positions all the way down the course.

鈥淭he time after crossing the finish line, waiting to find out who had won, was some of the tensest moments I鈥檝e ever experienced.鈥�

The victory remains one of his proudest sporting memories.

An opportunity across the world

After finishing school, Angus continued rowing with Wendouree Ballarat Rowing Club and competing at state and national level.

Then came an opportunity he had never imagined.

After returning from a regatta in New South Wales, Angus received messages from rowing coaches in the United States who had noticed his performances.

鈥淏efore that, I didn鈥檛 even know going overseas through rowing was really a possibility,鈥� he said.

With support and guidance, Angus explored several opportunities before eventually accepting a scholarship to Jacksonville University.

Today, he lives on campus in Florida, balancing university studies with the demands of collegiate rowing.

Most days begin with gym sessions alongside his teammates before classes and afternoon training sessions on the water.

鈥淲e鈥檝e got a huge river where we train,鈥� he said.

鈥淲e can row for kilometres in either direction and sometimes there are dolphins swimming past the boat. It鈥檚 pretty cool.鈥�

Angus is currently studying Mechanical Engineering and says the scholarship has made studying overseas more affordable than he ever expected.

Through a combination of rowing and academic scholarships, he is able to complete his degree while competing at a high level and gaining international experience.

Lessons beyond the boat

While the scholarship is an incredible achievement, Angus believes the greatest benefit of rowing has been the personal growth it has fostered.

鈥淚t teaches you that you can always go a little bit harder,鈥� he said.

鈥淲hen you鈥檙e tired and your mind is telling you that鈥檚 enough, there鈥檚 always a little bit more you can give.鈥�

Where could rowing take you?

For students considering joining the 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 rowing program, his advice is simple.

鈥淕ive it a go,鈥� he said.

鈥淵ou don鈥檛 have to be the best rower to enjoy it. Some of the people who had the most fun weren鈥檛 the fastest. You get to travel, race, spend time with your mates and be part of something bigger than yourself. It鈥檚 an experience that鈥檚 really hard to replicate.鈥�

Reflecting on the role rowing has played in his life, Angus points to another benefit that extends far beyond competition.听When he arrived at university in the United States, he instantly had a community around him.

鈥淏efore I even got there, the other rowers were messaging me,鈥� he said.

鈥淎s soon as I arrived, the older boys were helping us out and making us feel welcome. It felt like I鈥檇 already been there for a year.鈥�

It is a feeling he first experienced at 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College.

鈥淭he rowing community is really special,鈥� Angus said.

鈥淎nd you never know where it might take you.鈥�

The night provided an opportunity to reflect on a season defined by commitment, resilience and strong crew culture, while recognising the achievements of students across all year levels.

A highlight of the evening was the address from Old Collegian Tom Foley (SPC 2017-22), who shared an honest and engaging account of his rowing journey – from early struggles in a single scull to competing on the national and international stage.

Reflecting on the disappointment of missing Nationals in 2020 and the work that followed, Tom spoke about the value of consistency and self-belief.

“I remember counting down the days until we could get back and just thinking, what can I do to get better?” he said.

“Even if it didn’t feel like much at the time, it was doing something every day – backing it up again and again – that made the difference. If you can control what you can control and put the work in, it gives you a lot of confidence when it matters.

He also encouraged students to back themselves, highlighting confidence as a key ingredient in both sport and life.

“Have confidence in your ability. If you believe in what you’re doing and the work you’ve put in, that gives you an edge before you even get to the start line,” he said.

The presentation of awards recognised both performance and character, with Coaches Awards highlighting dedication, improvement and contribution across each division.

Coaches Awards

Year 9
Division 4 鈥� Matt Zuidland
Division 3 鈥� Jake Crack
Division 2 鈥� Matteo Spurgo
Division 1 鈥� Oliver New

Year 10
Division 5 鈥� Jake Mahar
Division 4 鈥� Tyson Meek
Division 3 鈥� Ujjwal Gambhir
Division 2 鈥� Kade McKay
Division 1 鈥� Noah Connell

Open
Division 7 鈥� Tom Stevens
Division 6 鈥� Blake Roberts
Division 5 鈥� Patrick Buttler
Division 4 鈥� Taj Bobrowski (Absent)
Division 3 鈥� Tom Cosgriff
Division 2 鈥� Hamish Quigley
Division 1 鈥� Charlie Geddes (Absent)

Major year-level awards were also presented to students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, commitment and contribution to the program:

Year Level Awards

Year 9 Paul Myers Award 鈥� Joseph Knobel
Year 10 James Marburg Award 鈥� Zach Galvin
Year 11 Christian Ryan Award 鈥� Lachlan Cameron
Year 12 Brian Vear Award 鈥� George Charles
Year 12 Anthony Edwards Award for Leadership 鈥� Cameron Belleville

The College extends its sincere thanks to the rowing coaching staff for their dedication and expertise throughout the season, as well as to the many families whose ongoing support underpins the success of the program.

The evening was a fitting celebration of a season that showcased not only strong performances on the water, but also the values of teamwork, perseverance and pride that define rowing at 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College.

The evening recognised the outstanding football achievements across junior, intermediate and senior levels and featured former Geelong footballer and Old Collegian Josh Cowan (SPC 2009) as guest speaker. The celebration also included the presentation of the ACC and BAS 1st XVIII guernseys.

A highlight of the night, emceed by Wes Cusworth, was the presence of Michael James, son of College great and 1961 Brownlow Medallist John James, who proudly presented the 2025 John James Medal to Year 11 student Ethan Drever. The John James Medal is awarded to the player deemed best on ground in the Respect Cup. Ethan was also awarded the W.T. O鈥橫alley trophy after polling the most votes in the 1^st XVIII Best and Fairest count.

“It鈥檚 a great honour to be the recipient of the John James Medal and O鈥� Malley B&F for 2025. They’re such prestigious awards and looking at the past players that have received these awards, it was truly inspiring and is certainly something I don鈥檛 take for granted,” Ethan said.

Ethan said wearing the 1st XVIII guernsey was a privilege and thanked his teammates and staff for their efforts this season.

“Not everyone is given an opportunity to wear this prestigious guernsey and to be able to run out with 23 of my closest mates representing the school was an honour,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we didn鈥檛 make it to the finals this year but we loved every bit of being around one another and driving each other to become better football players.”

SPC 1st XVIII coach Jason Lappin said while 2025 wasn’t the year we had hoped for, results don’t always tell the full story.

“This group has shown resilience, growth, and spirit. And our best performance came when it mattered most 鈥� in the Respect Cup against our archrival, St Joseph鈥檚 Geelong,” he said.

“That match was a true contest, a dour struggle where every possession counted. You showed grit, teamwork, and belief. That win was about more than football 鈥� it was about honouring the tradition of St Pat鈥檚 and playing with pride.”

He also reminded students of the important life lessons football teaches us.

“Boys, footy teaches us more than how to kick, handball, or tackle. It teaches us resilience when results don’t go our way, and it teaches us to value team above self,” he said.

Cowan shared insights into resilience, team culture, and the importance of making the most of opportunities.

“Make sure you enjoy it, every opportunity you get, because you might not get to play a lot of footy, you might not get to play with groups of mates ever again,” he said.

“Every opportunity you get to run out and play footy, just make sure you have fun. All those things you worry and stress about, most of the time other people don’t ever think or worry about that so make sure you go out there, have a smile on your face and have fun. Your footy or any other sport will take care of itself.”

Award Winners

Year 7

• Liam Duggan Academy 鈥淩espect鈥� Award (Keniry): Mitch Kinniburgh
• Liam Duggan Academy 鈥淩espect鈥� Award (Keniry): Charlie Clarke
• Liam Duggan Academy 鈥淩espect鈥� Award (Galvin): Hugh Farrell
• Liam Duggan Academy 鈥淩espect鈥� Award (Nunan): Charlie Bursill

Year 8

• SPC Blue Best and Fairest: Xavier Deane
• SPC Gold Best and Fairest: Ollie Wilkie
• SPC White Best and Fairest: Abe Sosinski
• SPC Green Best and Fairest: Max Walsh

Intermediate

• SPC Green Best and Fairest: Max Aylward
• SPC Blue Best and Fairest: Lachlan Cameron
• SPC Gold Best and Fairest: Archie Svanosio
• Jim Toohey Perpetual Trophy: Max Aylward

Seniors

• 2nd XVIII White (Year 10) Best and Fairest: Nash Armstrong
• 2nd XVIII Blue Best and Fairest: Noah McDonald
• Greg Dowd Trophy: Noah McDonald
• 1st XVIII BAS Best and Fairest: Rory Bell
• Year 10 Most Promising Player: Lachlan Pring
• John James Medal (Best on Ground, Respect Cup): Ethan Drever
• W.T. O鈥橫alley ACC 1st XVIII Best and Fairest: Ethan Drever

After losing the toss we were sent in to bat. Five early wickets had us in big trouble at 5/62 after 17 overs, only Lachlan Rea showing any solid resistance to be 22 not out. Once he was joined by Max Bunworth in the middle, the match started to turn in our favour.

A match defining partnership of 79 from only 70 balls swung the momentum our way. Max was dismissed for his highest score for the season of 33 from only 30 balls, and then Lachlan was dismissed for his highest score of 68 from 96 balls to have us at 8/146. A late cameo from Lachy McPhan helped push the score to 8/160 from our 35 overs. A sensational recovery in the final 18 overs to set St Joseph鈥檚 a significant total to chase.听

In response, St Joseph鈥檚 made a slow and steady start and it wasn鈥檛 until the 10th over that the skipper Linc Koliba claimed the first wicket. Jack McMahon then claimed his first wicket as he maintained his excellent opening bowling spells. St Joseph鈥檚 had progressed to 2/55 and were looking quite comfortable. However, three quick wickets 鈥� two to Harry Sutherland and one to Armi Wakefield 鈥� reduced them to 5/60, a very similar position to what we were in at drinks.

Following the drinks break the boys stepped up a gear and in the next seven overs took five for 15 to seal a comprehensive 85-run victory. Vice Captain Armi Wakefield, who missed out with the bat, was inspiring in the field with three catches and three wickets. He was well supported by Harry Sutherland and Lachy McPhan who each took two, before the skipper Linc Koliba claimed the final wicket to also finish with two.

Overall, it was a wonderful finish to a season in which the boys were undefeated. A great team result with all players contributing to the victory.听

– By Steven Biggin, 1st XI Coach

鈥楩rom the Captain鈥�

Lifting the ACC trophy in my final game of school cricket was nothing short of remarkable. It was the crowning achievement of everything I鈥檝e worked toward throughout my years representing St Pat鈥檚. To go undefeated across every home and away match over the past three seasons, only to fall short in two consecutive semi-finals, made securing the premiership not only a relief, but a deeply satisfying reward for years of perseverance.听

Each season in the ACC competition, I held a firm belief that we were the best team out there. This year, we proved it. We knew the grand final against St Joseph鈥檚 College, Geelong, would be our toughest challenge yet. They were a quality side stacked with talent, including players who had scored heavily and taken key wickets against us earlier in the season. Our game plan was simple, neutralise their biggest threats early. The turning point came when we dismissed their top-order batter, who had previously scored 70 against us. As soon as we claimed that wicket, I had a gut feeling we were going to win.

What made this team special wasn鈥檛 just the talent, but the way everyone played their role to perfection. Whether it was Albie Cheesman鈥檚 composed 30 at a run-a-ball or Max Bunworth picking up a few 鈥榗heapies鈥� at the death, every player contributed in moments that mattered. It was truly a team effort. The standout performance, however, came in the grand final when we found ourselves under serious pressure at 5 for 60 after 20 overs. That鈥檚 when Lachlan 鈥淩AZ鈥� Rea produced a knock for the ages, 68 runs off 96 balls. It was a gritty, determined innings that gave us a target to defend and reignited belief across the group.

As Captain, I trusted the boys completely. Alongside Mr Biggin, I knew we had a squad of switched-on players who understood their jobs. That trust allowed me to captain in a relaxed way of supporting my teammates, backing their ability, and giving everyone a fair opportunity, whether it was opening the bowling or getting promoted up the order.听

This victory means far more than a trophy. It symbolises the strength of our cricket program and serves as a beacon for the promising young talent coming through the ranks. I genuinely believe that many more premierships lie ahead for St Pat鈥檚. To the younger players, embrace school cricket. It鈥檚 more than just a game. It鈥檚 where you forge lifelong friendships, learn valuable lessons, and create unforgettable memories. Be a part of it, you won鈥檛 regret it.听

– By Lincoln Koliba, 1st XI Captain

The Academy is led by Brendan McCartney, a distinguished and experienced 乐播传媒视频 coach with over 25 years at the elite level. Brendan’s coaching career includes his tenure as Head Coach of the Western Bulldogs (2011鈥�2015), and he currently serves as Head Coach of Port Melbourne in the VFL. His dual background as a qualified schoolteacher and accomplished football mentor has enabled him to establish a thriving junior development program for elite youth athletes in the Geelong region鈥攅xpertise he brings to the Liam Duggan Academy.

Supporting Brendan are four external coaching professionals, including Old Collegian Brett Bewley (SPC 2008-13), a former Fremantle Dockers player, who has played a pivotal role in delivering the program to students.听

This year, 220 students participated in the Academy during Terms 1 and 2. Student selection was merit-based, with criteria aligned to the College鈥檚 strategic objectives:

• Demonstrated academic excellence (with a preference for Chris Nolan award recipients)
• Consistent attendance (minimum 90 per cent)
• Adherence to agreed standards of conduct and behaviour

The Liam Duggan Football Academy plays a central role in strengthening the College鈥檚 football program and broader co-curricular offerings. It reflects 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College鈥檚 commitment to holistic education鈥攄eveloping students intellectually, physically, and ethically.

While on-field success remains an aspiration, the Academy鈥檚 primary objective is to cultivate well-rounded student-athletes. As reflected in the College Prospectus:
鈥淚f the correct educational processes are followed, the scoreboard will look after itself.鈥�

The College looks forward to the continued development of the Liam Duggan Football Academy in the years ahead, further strengthening our reputation for excellence in both education and sport.

Vision and Benefits:

• Reinforcing the College鈥檚 dedication to academic and athletic excellence
• Promoting the football program within the broader Ballarat community, thereby enhancing enrolment interest and media engagement
• Setting high expectations that encourage the development of other sports across the College
• Instilling core values such as leadership, discipline, teamwork, and resilience in line with the College鈥檚 mission

The Numbers:

• Junior School: 80 students (45 Year 8, 35 Year 7)
• Middle School: 70 students (35 Year 10, 35 Year 9)
• Senior School: 70 students (35 Year 11, 35 Year 12)

Student Reflections:

Below are reflections from several senior students who participated in the program during the final five weeks of Term 1, 2025:

“The Liam Duggan Academy has been a great opportunity to learn and thrive in a professional environment with former 乐播传媒视频 coaches and current VFL players. I鈥檝e learnt a lot and really enjoyed my time in the program. Whether it鈥檚 tactics, fitness, or footy skills, the Academy has provided each of us with a broad range of new tools to take into the upcoming season鈥攂oth at club and school level.”
鈥� Lincoln Koliba, Year 12

“The Liam Duggan Academy has been a fantastic experience for all involved. The quality of coaching is second to none, and I鈥檝e gained insights that will stay with me throughout my football journey. From new techniques to tactical understanding, the program has been thoroughly enjoyable thanks to engaging coaches and motivated peers.”
鈥� Max Bunworth, Year 12

“This program focuses deeply on the craft of the game, enhancing both football skills and leadership qualities. The diversity of coaching perspectives offers a more comprehensive understanding of the game, contributing greatly to my overall development as a player.”
鈥� Hamish McNamara, Year 12

“Participating in the Academy over the past two years has elevated my performance to a higher level. Brendan McCartney provides detailed, constructive feedback, and we鈥檝e benefitted from sessions with top-tier players like Brett Bewley. Beyond improving as footballers, this program has helped shape us into better people. I鈥檓 grateful to St Pat鈥檚 for the opportunity.”
鈥� Ned Charleson, Year 11

“The Academy offers an outstanding environment to maximise development, supported by knowledgeable and high-calibre coaches. Despite being a short five-week program, we all gained so much鈥攂oth in skill and in building a strong, connected team culture.”
鈥� Archie Elliott, Year 11

First quarter

Fraser Molan was given the Captaincy for the game and lost the toss which meant we were kicking into a 2-3 goal breeze. St Bede’s won the first centre bounce clearance and kicked a goal from the forward 50 entry in what was the worst way possible to kick off the main part of our season. To our credit the Paddy boys immediately gained ascendency around the stoppages and kept peppering the 50 to keep the ball in our forward half. Unfortunately, we missed a number of opportunities to kick goals as we kicked three behinds and two kicks out of bounds on the full. Towards the end of the quarter, St Bede’s was able to take the ball forward to score the second goal of the game. This frustrated the coaching group as we had completely controlled the territory game without being able to capitalise with a major. Right on the siren impressive debutant Levi Munyard kicked the ball deep inside 50, where clever small forward Kai Watkins got out the back to finish truly.

Second quarter

The second quarter started positively with multiple forward 50 re-entries finally ending with a contested mark and goal by Cooper Glenwright who was impressive in his first school game of the year. Later in the quarter, Cooper would impact again after marking on the lead after a beautiful pass from Armi Wakefield. He would finish beautifully from a tight angle. The remainder of the quarter was a slog, with SPC getting punished for a scuffle which resulted in a 50m penalty and goal to St Bede’s. St Pat’s would go to the half time break with a four-point lead.

Third quarter

This quarter saw us come out and try and defend our lead against the stiff breeze. Conditions dried out a little and the opening minutes saw us control the stoppages and go forward on numerous occasions without hitting the scoreboard. Another stoppage win at half back set off a chain of six handballs which looked amazing. Impressive Year 11 student Archie Elliott was on the end of the chain and his kick inside 50 found Cooper Glenwright who quickly identified another impressive Year 11 student Angus Morgan who kicked a goal from the goal line. SPC were able to milk the clock a little and maintain possession while trying to mitigate the influence of the breeze. We gave up one goal towards the end of the quarter to go to the three-quarter time break with a four-point lead.

Final quarter

We started poorly and lost the first centre bounce which resulted in a goal to St Bede’s. But this would be the last time that they would lead in this game with the Paddy boys finishing all over St Bede’s. Goal number one came from a brilliant piece of play from Archie Elliot who slotted one through under extreme pressure. Goal number two came from Kai Watkins who outworked his opponent to run onto a deep kick inside 50. Goal number three came from impressive debutant Levi Munyard and goal number four – in the last minute of the game – came from Harvey Lewis who worked tirelessly for the entire game as a small forward and snapped truly. This gives us a 2-0 start to the season with a huge game against the powerful Parade College set for next Wednesday on the hallowed turf at SPC.

Goal Kickers: Cooper Glenwright 2, Kai Watkins 2, Angus Morgan 1, Harvey Lewis 1, Archie Elliot 1, Levi Munyard 1.

Best Players: Archie Elliot, Tessie Liem, Ethan Drever, Cooper Glenwright, Fraser Molan, Levi Munyard, Kai Watkins.

鈥� By Jason Lappin, 1st XVIII coach

The evening featured special guest speaker Jamie McDonald, an award-winning Australian rowing coach, who inspired students to focus on their development as athletes and young men. He reminded the audience that medals are only part of the story with each training session and race providing an opportunity to improve, and that discipline, organisation and technical focus were key ingredients to success in rowing and life.

Rowing Coordinator and Junior Coach Rebecca Gribble spoke with great pride about the junior program, describing rowing as 鈥渢he ultimate team sport.鈥� She praised the boys for their energy, mateship and ability to rise to the challenge at every regatta.

鈥淭here was never a dull or quiet moment when these boys were in the shed,鈥� Ms Gribble said.

鈥淭he most pleasing thing was that they were able to bring that same energy and enthusiasm into their rowing on regatta days. Medals were won, lessons were learnt and some oars were broken, but there were always smiles on their faces as they left the rowing shed.鈥�

Ms Gribble gave special mention to the College鈥檚 Year 10 Division 1 crew, whose achievements marked a historic season for the program.

鈥淥ur Year 10 Division 1 crew achieved some great things this season,鈥� she said.

鈥淭hey dominated the Ballarat Year 10 quad events, posted training times on par with national podium standards, and not only won their own year-level events but stepped up to take out the Open Division 2 quad at the Head of the Schoolboys Regatta.

鈥淭hey pushed even further, securing a bronze medal at the State Championships in the Open Division 1 quad event against senior Melbourne school crews. Their final challenge was at the Australian Rowing National Championships in Tasmania, where they placed fourth in the Under 17 quad event鈥攎aking them the fastest schoolboy crew in the country in that category. A phenomenal achievement and a first for our program.鈥�

Head Coach David O’Doherty also shared reflections on the season, emphasising that the real value of rowing lies in the personal development of each student.

“Reflecting on the season, one’s thoughts turn to the outcomes for our rowers beyond just results,” he said.

“Tony O’Connor, coach of the Kiwi Olympic gold medal eight, put it simply: ‘rowing is just a great vehicle for kids to grow up.’ And from the first session in July to now, I’ve witnessed a tremendous amount of growth in our young men.

That growth was matched by a series of strong performances across the season.

“We recorded some firsts for our program, winning four events at the Melbourne Head Regatta, dominant intermediate results at the Carrum Regatta, and several bronze medals at Head of the Schoolboys,” he said.

“At the Head of the Lake, while we narrowly missed the premiership, most crews delivered their best performances of the season.”

He summed up the spirit of the team with a single word: earnest.

“If there is one word to describe this year’s rowing squad, it is earnest. Earnest in their efforts, their commitment, and their enjoyment of the sport. That spirit is what makes the SPC boatshed such a special place to be.”

He also extended sincere thanks to the coaching team and the parent group for their unwavering support throughout the season.

The evening included the presentation of Coaches Awards and Year Level Awards:

Coaches Awards:

• Year 9 Div 5: Jake Debrincat
• Year 9 Div 4: Henry Gilbert
• Year 9 Div 3: Archer Bolt
• Year 9 Div 2: Noah Connell
• Year 9 Div 1: Nic Ward

• Year 10 Div 6: Joshua Canavan
• Year 10 Div 5: Jasper Delaney
• Year 10 Div 4: Harry Bennett
• Year 10 Div 3: Charlie Saw
• Year 10 Div 2: Lachlan Cowell
• Year 10 Div 1: Blake Roberts

• Open Div 5: Patrick Buttler
• Open Div 4: Jett Florence
• Open Div 3: Cameron Belleville
• Open Div 2: Harrison Grant
• Open Div 1: Lachlan Belleville

Year Level Awards:

• Year 9 Paul Myers Award: Jack Stringer
• Year 10 James Marburg Award: Lachlan Cameron
• Year 11 Christian Ryan Award: George Charles
• Year 12 Brian Vear Award: Henry Reinehr

The College extends its congratulations to all award winners and to every student who contributed to the rowing program this season. Their dedication, spirit, and sportsmanship continue to uphold the values of 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College and inspire the next generation of rowers.

Held at GMHBA Stadium on Wednesday, 19 March, the event once again saw 乐播传媒视频’s College, St Joseph’s College, Sacred Heart College and Loreto College unite in a shared commitment to gender equality and recognition of women’s achievements in sport.

On the field, 乐播传媒视频’s College put in a spirited performance, finishing with a dominant final quarter to claim victory over St Joseph’s College, 8.8.56 to 5.5.44.

Despite trailing for much of the match, the team surged home in the last term, making the most of their opportunities to secure a memorable win.

Read the full match report

But while the scoreboard showed a St Pat’s victory, the true success of the Respect Cup lies in what it stands for.

“The Respect Cup is about so much more than football. It’s about celebrating the achievements of women in sport, challenging bias, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity,” SPC Director of Football Howard Clark said.

“It was great to get win, but the real victory is in the conversations this event continues to spark and the values it instills in our students.”

The Respect Cup continues to grow as a tradition that strengthens bonds between schools and highlights the unifying power of sport.

乐播传媒视频’s College is committed to promoting respect and equality both on and off the field. As a proud member of the CoRE (Communities of Respect and Equality) Alliance, we actively support initiatives that challenge gender-based violence and promote a safer, more inclusive community.

Recently, our rugby players participated in Movement Based Bystander Training with Melbourne Storm, equipping them with skills to stand up against disrespectful behaviour and be positive role models in the community.

Principal Steven O’Connor reinforced the College’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.

“Our membership of CoRE aligns comfortably and positively with our commitment to ensuring that a 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 education is characterised by respectful relationships and our commitment to developing character, compassion and community in all of our students,” he said.

On Wednesday, 19 March, 乐播传媒视频鈥檚 College 1st XVIII played in the annual Respect Cup match against St Joseph鈥檚 Geelong. This is a very important game on the calendar and coincides with International Women鈥檚 Day, which was this听 on 8 March. The day also offers an opportunity for the boys to support our 鈥榮ister school鈥� Loreto College Ballarat in their game against Sacred Heart Geelong.

The boys played first in extremely challenging conditions in the middle of the day. The temperature would have been pushing 35C in the direct sunlight.

The first quarter didn鈥檛 start well for the Paddy boys, St Joey’s fast paced style of football caught our boys off-guard and we were quickly a goal down. We won the very next centre clearance through Ethan Drever and Charlie Elliott who had followed the ball forward after winning the ruck tap kicked a great running goal to get us on the board. However, we were quickly back to one goal down as Joey’s kicked a goal from the very next centre clearance.

Whilst we were doing well in the contest, Joey’s were penetrating our D50 with fast, aggressive ball movement. Jacob Martin, Jake Abrams and Tessie Liem were under a lot of pressure with the ball coming in so fast. They did a great job considering the amount of ball that was coming their way. We went to the quarter time break down by 15 points.

Fraser Molan kicked an absolute dart early in the second quarter to find Riley Hiscock who kicked truly from 25m out on a tight angle. The second quarter was a bit of an arm wrestle as we tried to stifle their ball movement with greater pressure. As with most SPC teams, we were very strong in the contest and our tackling was impressive, however we were struggling to move the ball on the long skinny GMHBA ground. Each team would kick one more goal for the quarter and we were down by 10 points going into half time.

Second half

We made a couple of positional changes at half time that paid dividends immediately. Lachie Squire was moved to half back with Taj Bowman and Kade Hilton was moved to the midfield rotation. All three would become pivotal to us having a much stronger second half.

Kade Hilton was the most influential player on the field in the second half with a couple of goals to go along with multiple goal assists. Tesloach Lual along with inside-mids Ethan Drever, Fraser Molan, Lincoln Koliba and Kade Hilton continued to drive the ball forward from stoppages and we started to get control of the game.

Some boys started to cramp in the stifling conditions and we had to rotate very heavily to keep fit players on the ground. We battled on to level the score at three-quarter time. We felt that we had a bit of momentum as the Joeys players started to really tire. After a couple of early misses from us, Joeys kicked the first goal of the last quarter. Even though the players were tired, the intensity around the contest lifted, with the stakes of the game becoming extremely evident. 听听We kicked the next goal to tie the scores again at 43 apiece.

Tashaun Wright got on the end of a deep entry from impressive newcomer Archie Elliott, but he narrowly missed to the near post. Kade Hilton took the advantage from a free kick to Tashaun Wright off a deep entry and we were up by seven with five minutes to play. Kade then had another very smart piece of play where he was able to get behind the defence and smartly centred the ball to Tashaun who kicked truly under immense pressure.

Final score: SPC 8.8.56 to SJG 5.14.44

Goal Kickers: Tashaun Wright 2, Kade Hilton 2, Charlie Elliott 1, Lincoln Koliba 1, Riley Hiscock 1

Best Players: Ethan Drever, Kade Hilton, Jake Abrams, Fraser Molan, Lincoln Koliba, Tessie Liem