Mercedes College Dear Parents, Staff and Students of the Mercedes College Community, Welcome This term we have welcomed three new staff members - Ms Renee Covino will be taking over Gavin Rogers’ classes while he enjoys Long Service Leave and Mr Alexander Massy Gartly will be taking some of Tony O’Doherty’s classes while he takes Long Service Leave as well. In Tony’s absence Mr John Brazzatti and Mrs Alessandra Miles will share the responsibilities of the Assistant Principal, Head of Senior School. Please feel free to contact Alessandra or John should you have concerns about any matters relating to Year 10 through to Year 12. Mrs Talia Borda has also joined us and will be working in the Design area. This term we welcome back Ms Carmel O’Reilly who has been on leave in the first semester. Carmel will be looking after our class of Reception students who have begun their school life this term. Fourteen new students will be in this class and I wish them and their families a very happy and successful time as they join our Mercedes family. Term 3 – Some Exciting Things to Come For the students – This term much will be happening at the College. Students will have the opportunity to visit Canberra, attend the annual Mimili Trek and others will be visiting our sister school in India, Mahatma Gandhi International School. During the week commencing August 17 we will be competing with St Ignatius College in our annual Intercollegiate competition. Although a series of events are held throughout the week, the majority are held on Saturday August 22. This year St Ignatius will host the Intercol and although we are unbeaten in this competition, this year will be a big test; and so we will need as many members of our community supporting our teams on this day. For the parents – I hope you will also be interested in putting some important dates in your diary: Mercy Oration During the evening of Thursday August 13 prominent social justice campaigner, Mr Tim Costello will be presenting our annual Mercy Oration. We are very fortunate to have such a notable speaker and I am sure that the evening will be a special experience. Golf Day For something completely different I commend the MPFA’s Golf Day to you. This is our major fundraiser for the year and promises to be a great day for golfers and non-golfers alike. Besides the golf this promises to be a great social occasion with the nineteenth hole being sure to be a highlight. This event will be held at the Echunga Golf Club on Friday September 18 and a return bus ride from the College will be available on the day. College Council News At the last College Council meeting members were informed of the ongoing negotiations with the Mitcham Council with regard to a proposed pedestrian crossing across Delamere Avenue. This has been a protracted process but we continue to work towards a solution which will keep our students safe and satisfy the concerns of the local residents. The College Council continues to monitor the financial position of the College and takes responsible decisions to ensure the long term success of Mercedes. Yours sincerely Peter Daw Principal From the Principal Issue No 11 - 31 July, 2009 COMING EVENTS AUGUST 3 SACE/IB Diploma Information Night 7 PHOTOS- Winter Sports 10-14 Year 10 Canberra Odyssey/Adelaide Odyssey 10 College Council Meeting 11 R-5 Performance Dan & John 13-14 Year 9 Retreat 13 2009 Mercy Oration- Rev Tim Costello (7:00pm) 14 JS French Day
Transcript
M e r c e d e s C o l l e g e
Dear Parents, Staff and Students of the Mercedes College Community,
WelcomeThis term we have welcomed three new staff members - Ms Renee Covino will be taking over Gavin Rogers’ classes while he enjoys Long Service Leave and Mr Alexander Massy Gartly will be taking some of Tony O’Doherty’s classes while he takes Long Service Leave as well. In Tony’s absence Mr John Brazzatti and Mrs Alessandra Miles will share the responsibilities of the Assistant Principal, Head of Senior School. Please feel free to contact Alessandra or John should you have concerns about any matters relating to Year 10 through to Year 12.
Mrs Talia Borda has also joined us and will be working in the Design area. This term we welcome back Ms Carmel O’Reilly who has been on leave in the first semester. Carmel will be looking after our class of Reception students who have begun their school life this term. Fourteen new students will be in this class and I wish them and their families a very happy and successful time as they join our Mercedes family.
Term 3 – Some Exciting Things to ComeFor the students – This term much will be happening at the College. Students will have the opportunity to visit Canberra, attend the annual Mimili Trek and others will be visiting our sister school in India, Mahatma Gandhi International School.
During the week commencing August 17 we will be competing with St Ignatius College in our annual Intercollegiate competition. Although a series of events are held throughout the week, the majority are held on Saturday August 22. This year St Ignatius will host the Intercol and although we are unbeaten in this competition, this year will be a big test; and so we will need as many members of our community supporting our teams on this day.
For the parents – I hope you will also be interested in putting some important dates in your diary:
Mercy OrationDuring the evening of Thursday August 13 prominent social justice campaigner, Mr Tim Costello will be presenting our annual Mercy Oration. We are very fortunate to have such a notable speaker and I am sure that the evening will be a special experience.
Golf DayFor something completely different I commend the MPFA’s Golf Day to you. This is our major fundraiser for the year and promises to be a great day for golfers and non-golfers alike. Besides the golf this promises to be a great social occasion with the nineteenth hole being sure to be a highlight. This event will be held at the Echunga Golf Club on Friday September 18 and a return bus ride from the College will be available on the day.
College Council NewsAt the last College Council meeting members were informed of the ongoing negotiations with the Mitcham Council with regard to a proposed pedestrian crossing across Delamere Avenue. This has been a protracted process but we continue to work towards a solution which will keep our students safe and satisfy the concerns of the local residents.
The College Council continues to monitor the financial position of the College and takes responsible decisions to ensure the long term success of Mercedes.
Yours sincerely
Peter DawPrincipal
From the Principal Issue No 11 - 31 July, 2009
COMING EVENTS
AUGUST 3 SACE/IB Diploma Information Night7 PHOTOS- Winter Sports10-14 Year 10 Canberra Odyssey/Adelaide Odyssey10 College Council Meeting
11 R-5 Performance Dan & John13-14 Year 9 Retreat13 2009 Mercy Oration- Rev Tim Costello (7:00pm)14 JS French Day
Mercedes College NewsletterPage 2 Mercedes College Newsletter
From the Junior School
Welcome back to all our families! The Marquee was certainly a vibrant place on the first day back as students and parents reacquainted with friends and shared their holiday experiences, trips to the movies and days of sleeping in. The staff are recharged and looking forward to a busy and productive term with our wonderful students.
I would like to express a warm welcome back to Mrs Carmel O’Reilly who is the Home Group teacher for the Term 3 intake Reception students. I know that she is very excited to be back and is delighted with her new class who have settled so well.
I would like to especially welcome our new Reception students and their families. We hope you come to love being part of the wonderful Mercedes College community. We look forward to sharing and nurturing your child’s learning journey and working in partnership with you. Our new students are:
Semester 2 SRC Congratulations to the following students who have been elected as the SRC members for their class for Semester 2. Students will be inducted at our fortnightly assembly on Friday 31 July. Fr Davoren will lead the blessing ceremony and present students with their leadership badge.
We look forward to these students following in the footsteps of their predecessors to enable a voice for our students, and to further improve the Mercedes College Junior School.
RJM Nikolaos ElovarisRTP Owen Yeates1EM Lilly Conlon and James Barry-Lewis1KQ Lara Gileff and Ned Milne2LS Lauren Frew and Benjamin Ianniello2MW Erin Moran and Jack de Heus3HI Maya Rigter and Tom Evans3MM Daniel Sinnett-Jones and Mollie 4NBR Lucy Traynor and Julian Kirkbride4TBR Jacqueline Harris and Samuel Evangelou5BS Gemma Elliott and Isaac Devlin5SS Evelyn Cacas and Simon Brookes
A Friday thought
It was one of the highlights of our World Youth Day experience. Being led, with 60 other students and leaders from Mercedes, into the Mary MacKillop Memorial Chapel in North Sydney. Into the chapel where Mary’s Tomb is a place of constant visitation by people from all walks of life. We came a day after the Pope. Thousands had preceded us. In February this year, there was a visit from Prime Minister Kevin Rudd who more recently, in his Vatican conversation with Pope Benedict, supported the hoped-for canonisation that will lead to Mary being declared Australia’s first saint.
Next Saturday, August 8, is the centenary of Mary’s death and there is, across Australia, a sense that this special recognition of Mary, which may come soon, will give affirmation and impetus to our own distinctly Australian Christianity. And that it might recognise, in the pantheon of overseas heroes, one of our own, rightly taking her place amidst those whose commitment to humanity has brought them universal recognition and in turn act as a source of inspiration.
There are two identifiable strands among people keen on the public proclamation of Mary’s sainthood. One, faith-based, which is appreciative of her heroic virtues and sees in Mary a model of faith, someone we can reliably follow in our journey to God and in our work for God. For us as Christians, Mary’s life and her words hold wonderful inspiration. “We must hold ourselves in readiness for God’s will, whichever way things go”, she said, challenging us to an openness which contradicts the perhaps more self-centred instincts to which we so readily respond. “God’s work does not depend on any of us”, she asserted, reminding us who too readily think that either I will do it or it won’t be done, of the providence of a God whose love is beyond our comprehension. And in the times of suffering which we all experience, she assured all that “God is good and has brought light and help when all was very dark”. For us who so easily lose touch with this loving God in the busy-ness of each day, Mary gently invites us to “love and praise God in all”.
There is, of course, another strand evident in Australia, one which places emphasis on Mary for reasons which appeal to those who have no great attachment to religious faith but who also see in her other qualities of a great Australian. Mary’s generosity in undertaking a major commitment to educate the children of the poor while still herself very young has inspired many. Her compassion to all, regardless of background or religious affiliation, challenges us to break the barriers which so often cause some issues of justice to be pursued but others ignored. Her reminder to us of the Church’s preferential option for the poor, a commitment and legacy she gave to her Sisters and to us also when she writes of the importance of seeking “first the poorest, most neglected parts of God’s vineyard”. Mary’s strength in adversity, especially when undeserved and ill-informed rejection came, not only from outside but even from within the Church community.
There is something authentically Australian about Mary’s life. The battler who defied the odds. The Aussie who took on the poverty, the heat, the lack of resources, the indifference of her contemporaries, and who forged a new educational venture which spread enormously both across the breadth of this land and overseas. When
Mary died, not only the religious press, but the secular outlets were strong in their recognition of both herself and her work. The Freeman’s Journal of 19th August 1909, for instance, claimed that Mary’s death left an irretrievable blank in the national life of Australasia. What she had done for the glory of God and in service of the people of this land “would stand in years to come as the noblest record of an Australian”.
There is an extraordinary symmetry that, as we so often celebrate the faith and charism of Catherine McAuley as our source of focus and direction, we observe that the year of her passing was 1841 and that in the next year, in Australia, far from Catherine’s Ireland, Mary was born. While both the Sisters of Mercy and Mary’s Josephite Sisters have flourished in Australia, it is reasonable to believe that the same confronting in faith of the challenges presented by our land so visible in Mary was inherited by both groups of Sisters. And we too are the fortunate beneficiaries of this spirit and this legacy.
At the beatification of Mary MacKillop in January 1995, Pope John Paul II said:
Mary MacKillop embodies all that is best in your nationand in its people:
Genuine openness to others, hospitality to strangers,generosity to the needy, justice to those unfairly
treated, perseverance in the face of adversity, kindnessand support to the suffering.
Think of Mother Mary MacKillop and learn from her tobe a gift of love and compassion to one another, for all
Australians and for the world.
The Pope’s wisdom might well inspire our own reflection.
Peter WilliamsDirector of Mission
Mercedes College Newsletter Mercedes College Newsletter Page 3
From the Junior School
Welcome back to all our families! The Marquee was certainly a vibrant place on the first day back as students and parents reacquainted with friends and shared their holiday experiences, trips to the movies and days of sleeping in. The staff are recharged and looking forward to a busy and productive term with our wonderful students.
I would like to express a warm welcome back to Mrs Carmel O’Reilly who is the Home Group teacher for the Term 3 intake Reception students. I know that she is very excited to be back and is delighted with her new class who have settled so well.
I would like to especially welcome our new Reception students and their families. We hope you come to love being part of the wonderful Mercedes College community. We look forward to sharing and nurturing your child’s learning journey and working in partnership with you. Our new students are:
Semester 2 SRC Congratulations to the following students who have been elected as the SRC members for their class for Semester 2. Students will be inducted at our fortnightly assembly on Friday 31 July. Fr Davoren will lead the blessing ceremony and present students with their leadership badge.
We look forward to these students following in the footsteps of their predecessors to enable a voice for our students, and to further improve the Mercedes College Junior School.
RJM Nikolaos ElovarisRTP Owen Yeates1EM Lilly Conlon and James Barry-Lewis1KQ Lara Gileff and Ned Milne2LS Lauren Frew and Benjamin Ianniello2MW Erin Moran and Jack de Heus3HI Maya Rigter and Tom Evans3MM Daniel Sinnett-Jones and Mollie 4NBR Lucy Traynor and Julian Kirkbride4TBR Jacqueline Harris and Samuel Evangelou5BS Gemma Elliott and Isaac Devlin5SS Evelyn Cacas and Simon Brookes
Email/Internet ProblemsUnfortunately the College experienced some major IT problems over the break which has meant a loss of data. If you have sent an email to any of the staff or myself and have not received a reply or follow up this means it was not received. Please resend so that appropriate follow up can be provided.
Communication The most effective form of communication is to either write a note in your child’s diary or to email the relevant teacher. If an email is sent, please be aware that as teachers are usually teaching and working with students, they may not be able to reply until a more convenient time, especially if the contents are confidential. Emails will be responded to as soon as possible, which may be at the end of the day. At times teachers may be absent due to Professional Development or illness and may not reply within this time frame. Please be assured that a response will be provided as soon as possible upon return.
It is important for you to know that phone calls will not be put through to classrooms as this would seriously interrupt the teaching and learning programmes taking place. Not all classrooms have phones and their use is for emergencies only. Strathspey Reception will gladly take your call and email the teacher the relevant information with the follow up required. Of course, urgent information will be passed on in person.
Morning ProceduresWe look forward to seeing our Junior School students no earlier than 8:20am under The Marquee which is supervised by a teacher. When the second bell sounds, students move to their classrooms to unpack and get organised for the day. Each class gathers together for roll call, prayer and messages before lessons commence for the day.
After School / Weekend Sport I am sure you are most grateful for the time and commitment teachers put into coaching and supporting your child’s sporting abilities. Please ensure your child is collected from trainings and games on time. As you would be aware students may not be left unsupervised. During week days students who are not collected on time will be sent to OHSC to ensure their safety and well-being. Please make alternative arrangements with other family members or families if picking up on time presents difficulty.
Mary died, not only the religious press, but the secular outlets were strong in their recognition of both herself and her work. The Freeman’s Journal of 19th August 1909, for instance, claimed that Mary’s death left an irretrievable blank in the national life of Australasia. What she had done for the glory of God and in service of the people of this land “would stand in years to come as the noblest record of an Australian”.
There is an extraordinary symmetry that, as we so often celebrate the faith and charism of Catherine McAuley as our source of focus and direction, we observe that the year of her passing was 1841 and that in the next year, in Australia, far from Catherine’s Ireland, Mary was born. While both the Sisters of Mercy and Mary’s Josephite Sisters have flourished in Australia, it is reasonable to believe that the same confronting in faith of the challenges presented by our land so visible in Mary was inherited by both groups of Sisters. And we too are the fortunate beneficiaries of this spirit and this legacy.
At the beatification of Mary MacKillop in January 1995, Pope John Paul II said:
Mary MacKillop embodies all that is best in your nationand in its people:
Genuine openness to others, hospitality to strangers,generosity to the needy, justice to those unfairly
treated, perseverance in the face of adversity, kindnessand support to the suffering.
Think of Mother Mary MacKillop and learn from her tobe a gift of love and compassion to one another, for all
Australians and for the world.
The Pope’s wisdom might well inspire our own reflection.
Mercedes College NewsletterPage 4 Mercedes College Newsletter
Junior School Assembly Awards
Congratulations and well done to the following students for receiving Learner Profile, PYP Attitude and Action Awards at our Junior School Assembly on Friday 3 July 2009.
Ethan Lehmann and Zac Steele for being Knowledgeable
Mark Mulders, Grace Lawson and Kelsey Dekens for being Caring
Ruby Briffa and Isabella Penna for being Principled
Joshua Devlin and Michael Cacas for being Risk-Takers
Kali Mezic, Andrea Rizos, Anthony Colangelo, Isabella Penna, Hamish Garland, James Barry-Lewis, Alexandra Gray and Sofia McGough for demonstrating Commitment
Elizabeth Chisholm for demonstrating that she is a Communicator
Hudson Hardman for taking Action
Luke Warburton for demonstrating Creativity
Lauren Frew, Georgina Edwards, Archer Plate, Joachim Poskey-Miles, Taylor Nicholas and Ned Milne for demonstrating Enthusiasm
Sophia Zachos and Michael Samaras for demonstrating Cooperation
Joshua Devlin for demonstrating Curiosity
Nicholas Young for demonstrating Confidence
Shane MurphyJunior School and PYP Coordinator/Year 3
From the Middle School
Term 3Welcome back to Term 3. We especially welcome Ms Renee Covino, who will be teaching Year 6/7 Science this term whilst Mr Rodger is on Long Service Leave; Mr Alexander Massy Gartly, who will be teaching some Middle School Humanitiies this term; and Mrs Talia Borda, who will be assisting in the Design faculty for the remainder of the year. We hope that their time at Mercedes is both personally and professionally fulfilling.
I trust that the holiday period was enjoyable and relaxing for parents and students alike. It was pleasing to catch up with numerous students last week who were well rested and full of energy and enthusiasm for their second semester subjects. This positive approach bodes well for their progress this term.
ReportsReports went home at the end of last term and it is certainly hoped that these helped you gain an understanding of the academic progress that your child made throughout the first semester. Having read through the reports at the end of last term I was very pleased to see such a high standard of results and was impressed with the quality of comments made regarding student attitude and approach to their studies. Congratulations to all of the students who achieved success last semester and I continue to encourage all Middle School students to work hard towards their goals, to persevere when challenges arise and to strive to achieve their best in all aspects of their school lives. I would also like to publicly acknowledge the Middle School teaching staff for the huge amount of time and effort that they put into not just their teaching, but also the assessment and reporting processes. Please forward any comments about the reports back to the College via the Home Group Teachers.
The Supplementary Learning Reviews to be held on Thursday 20 August (Week 5, Term 3) will represent another opportunity for parents to catch up with teachers and discuss student progress. These reviews are aimed especially for those students who are experiencing some difficulties in particular subjects and can be requested by students, parents or teachers. More information will be provided as this evening approaches.
Academic Awards AssemblyThe Middle School Academic Assembly to be held on Friday 21 August will focus on academic achievement from Semester 1. As a Middle School community we will congratulate those students who receive a certificate of Academic Excellence, having achieved results that placed them in the top 15% of their year level and those who have achieved a Commendation, for their outstanding efforts towards their academic pursuits. The assembly will take place from 8.45am to 9.30am in Gleeson Hall. Parents are welcome to attend; those whose children receive an award will receive an invitation at a later date. Please contact the school if you have any questions about this assembly.
Winter Sports and Extra-Curricular PhotosThese photos are taking place on Friday 7 August. The roster for photos has been issued to Home Group teachers and will be placed on the notice boards in their Home Group classrooms. Students need to check when they need to be present for their photo(s) and ensure that they have the correct uniform required for the photograph. Could I please ask for parent support in ensuring that all students are exceptionally well groomed and presented on this day.
Paul WadsworthAssistant Principal, Head of Middle School
Junior School Dates to RememberWe have an incredibly busy term so please enter the relevant dates on your calendar:August7 Photos Winter Sport11 R-5 Performance at school13 Mercy Oration – Tim Costello 7:00pm14 Junior School French Day/Assembly19 State Cross Country20 String students performing RAH21 R-7 Fun Run24 Book Week begins25 PYP Parent Workshop 7:00pm 26 Splash Theatre Performance at school28 Book Week Assembly September2 National Reading Day / IPSHA Poetry Competition 3 Years 2-5 Music Concert – Capri Theatre 7:00pm10 Family Photos/New Reception Class Photo11 Pupil Free Day17 Junior School Musical 7:00pm 21 International Day of Peace Prayer Service 22 Yr 5 Parent Meeting24 Special Person’s Day25 Mercy Day, End of Term 3, 12.30pm
Julie HannAssistant Principal, Head of Junior School
Break Free ProgrammeThe Break Free Programme is a once in a life time experience and one that you wish wouldn’t come to an end. The programme gives Year 9 girls the opportunity to be around people who we might not usually talk to or learn things from. It makes you value your friendships and relationships.
Break Free allows you to talk about what is on your mind with a group of like minded girls who are there to support and help you. The programme runs for a term, with a camp at the end of it where you go to Aldinga Beach to go surfing, talk in your group and just relax.
This programme has helped me and many of my friends this term. Everyone in my group wishes that it could run for the rest of our school years to help us get through each week.
We have all learnt a lot from the programme and recommend it to all students going into Year 9 in future years.
Megan Keam 9CS
Mercedes College Newsletter Mercedes College Newsletter Page 5
From the Senior School
Term 3 has begun with an added sense of responsibility as John and I share the role as Co-Acting Head of Senior School in Tony’s absence. We look forward to the challenge that awaits us in what will be a very busy and fulfilling term. So much has already transpired since our return to school and we feel privileged to play a further part in the development of the Senior School.
The Year 12s have completed their Trial Exams and we hope that this experience has prepared them for what will lay ahead. This term will be crucial for all Year 12s as they complete all course work, submit Majors and consolidate programmes studied. It will be daunting, as it becomes apparent, that officially they have one term left before the formal aspect of their schooling comes to a close. The formalities will then take place as they eagerly begin preparations for their Graduation Assembly and the organisation of the much awaited Graduation Ball. We welcomed back staff and students involved in the Ski Trip 2009, which took place in Falls Creek. From all reports it was another successful and enjoyable event, with the exception of Mrs Marianne Harding injuring her knee. We wish her the speediest of recoveries and look forward to her return. A special thank you to all staff involved, in particular Mr Kingsley Head for leading this group. This week saw the success of the Mock Interviews which took place on Wednesday evening, under the guidance of Mr Bill Deegan. The Year 10 cohort were given the opportunity to gain first hand experience of the interview process, an integral part of the New SACE programme. A component of the Personal Learning Plan requires students to complete a Resume, submit an application and attend a Mock Interview conducted by the Knights of the Southern Cross and members of the Mercedes community. The Year 11 Retreats were once again hailed a success, as students returned from their destinations eager to share their experiences. A special thank you to Mr Peter Williams for the preparation and organisation of such a huge undertaking.
A reminder that on Monday 3 August the SACE/IB Information Evening will be held in Gleeson Hall. This is aimed principally at Year 10 students and their parents, to assist with deciding between SACE and the IB Diploma programmes of study for Years 11 and 12. Information about the evening has been sent home via your son/daughter. All curriculum information handbooks are now available on the College website.
We look forward to working with you throughout the term. If there are any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to make contact with us.
Co-Acting Assistant Principal, Head of Senior SchoolAlessandra Miles and John Brazzatti
From the Middle School
Term 3Welcome back to Term 3. We especially welcome Ms Renee Covino, who will be teaching Year 6/7 Science this term whilst Mr Rodger is on Long Service Leave; Mr Alexander Massy Gartly, who will be teaching some Middle School Humanitiies this term; and Mrs Talia Borda, who will be assisting in the Design faculty for the remainder of the year. We hope that their time at Mercedes is both personally and professionally fulfilling.
I trust that the holiday period was enjoyable and relaxing for parents and students alike. It was pleasing to catch up with numerous students last week who were well rested and full of energy and enthusiasm for their second semester subjects. This positive approach bodes well for their progress this term.
ReportsReports went home at the end of last term and it is certainly hoped that these helped you gain an understanding of the academic progress that your child made throughout the first semester. Having read through the reports at the end of last term I was very pleased to see such a high standard of results and was impressed with the quality of comments made regarding student attitude and approach to their studies. Congratulations to all of the students who achieved success last semester and I continue to encourage all Middle School students to work hard towards their goals, to persevere when challenges arise and to strive to achieve their best in all aspects of their school lives. I would also like to publicly acknowledge the Middle School teaching staff for the huge amount of time and effort that they put into not just their teaching, but also the assessment and reporting processes. Please forward any comments about the reports back to the College via the Home Group Teachers.
The Supplementary Learning Reviews to be held on Thursday 20 August (Week 5, Term 3) will represent another opportunity for parents to catch up with teachers and discuss student progress. These reviews are aimed especially for those students who are experiencing some difficulties in particular subjects and can be requested by students, parents or teachers. More information will be provided as this evening approaches.
Academic Awards AssemblyThe Middle School Academic Assembly to be held on Friday 21 August will focus on academic achievement from Semester 1. As a Middle School community we will congratulate those students who receive a certificate of Academic Excellence, having achieved results that placed them in the top 15% of their year level and those who have achieved a Commendation, for their outstanding efforts towards their academic pursuits. The assembly will take place from 8.45am to 9.30am in Gleeson Hall. Parents are welcome to attend; those whose children receive an award will receive an invitation at a later date. Please contact the school if you have any questions about this assembly.
Winter Sports and Extra-Curricular PhotosThese photos are taking place on Friday 7 August. The roster for photos has been issued to Home Group teachers and will be placed on the notice boards in their Home Group classrooms. Students need to check when they need to be present for their photo(s) and ensure that they have the correct uniform required for the photograph. Could I please ask for parent support in ensuring that all students are exceptionally well groomed and presented on this day.
Paul WadsworthAssistant Principal, Head of Middle School
Break Free ProgrammeThe Break Free Programme is a once in a life time experience and one that you wish wouldn’t come to an end. The programme gives Year 9 girls the opportunity to be around people who we might not usually talk to or learn things from. It makes you value your friendships and relationships.
Break Free allows you to talk about what is on your mind with a group of like minded girls who are there to support and help you. The programme runs for a term, with a camp at the end of it where you go to Aldinga Beach to go surfing, talk in your group and just relax.
This programme has helped me and many of my friends this term. Everyone in my group wishes that it could run for the rest of our school years to help us get through each week.
We have all learnt a lot from the programme and recommend it to all students going into Year 9 in future years.
Megan Keam 9CS
Year 6 Parents Breakfast WHERE: Urban Bistro, Fullarton Road
WHEN: Friday 7 AugustTIME: 9:00am
COST: $26.50 (includes glass of bubbly, juice, breakfast and coffee)
Numbers are limited, please RSVP by 3 August toDonna Cheesman on 0438 838 067
All Welcome
Year 7 Parents Dinner WHERE: Suree’s Thai Kitchen
330 Unley Road, Hyde Park WHEN: Friday 14 August TIME: 7:00pm COST: $32 per head plus drinks
RSVP:7 AugustLeo D’Antuono 0466 340 489
No Entry to Staff Car Parking Areas
The car parks behind the grounds shed and Tennis Court car park are deemed unsafe for student access and are
therefore Staff Only Car Parks. Access to these areas is restricted by narrow driveways and you are asked not to enter these areas between 7:45am and 4pm.
A boom gate has been installed to restrict the access to these areas and will be operational from Monday 3 August.
We thank you for your attention to this matter.
Mercedes College NewsletterPage 6 Mercedes College Newsletter
Poverty Game
Caritas Australia is a charity which is supported by the school through Project Compassion fundraisers and Caritas Day. Recently they organised a day for the Archbishop and other supporters of this organisation.
On arrival a card was chosen randomly which represented the three main standards of living; top 15%, middle 30% and bottom 55%. Each of the three groups differed greatly with the top class seated at an expensively set table, being waited on and receiving an excess of food, the middle class was cramped around a table without any crockery and served beans, rice and vegetables. The lower class sat on chairs and were only fed a tiny amount of rice and water. We were fortunate enough to be seated on the high table, however, we soon realised that although our stomachs were full, our guilt and embarrassment was enormous.
While we were eating our meats and delicacies the lower classes were begging for food. We tried to give some of our food away, however, we soon realised that a caramel slice or a slice of pecan pie would not sustain these people, it might feed them for a day but would not affect them long term.
“When you give a person a fish you feed them for a day, but when you teach a person to fish, you can feed them for a lifetime”, this we realised was the main point, giving away our food would feed these people for lunch, however, tomorrow they would rely on the aid from another person. Instead we must be part of the change; we can easily give something up – like the luxuries in our lives to help these people receive the necessities in theirs.
One thing that Caritas focuses on is helping those help themselves, so instead of buying a water tank or building a school for them, they get into the communities and ask what they need so that they can do it themselves. By treating them like equals they retain their dignity while helping their communities.
Our community is currently sitting in the top 15%, our decisions will greatly impact those on the lower two classes, however, this does not have to be a negative, a small donation can make a world of difference. Charity is not the only way to help, we can live our lives in a manner that does not create poverty. By buying ethical food products and clothing and by not wasting our food we can make a significant difference in the lives of others. “Live simply, so others can simply live.”
Brigid Symes and James Hallahan Yr 11
Winter Sports Photographs R-12
Winter Sports Photographs will take place on Friday 7 August 2009 in the Sunken Garden. Photograph timetable will be distributed next week. Please ensure your child has the correct uniform/s for the photos they participate in, including correct socks and shoes.
Students who are involved in more than one photograph will need to be especially organised and take care of the various items of clothing they require. Only students in correct uniform will be photographed. Please ensure that all items of clothing are labelled, so that they can be returned if lost.
Please note that the new Reception Class Photo and Family Photographs will take place on Thursday 10 September 2009. Information will be sent home regarding time slots available for Family Photos at a later date.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries regarding Photo Day on 8372 3200.
Year 10 students will soon need to make subject choices for study in Year 11 next year. Their choices will be based on their academic interests and abilities and the criteria to meet the relevant programme requirements of the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP).
The first decision students must make is regarding which programme to follow in Year 11. To assist in clarifying the particular requirements of each programme of study, an information evening will be held on Monday 3 August. The evening will include:
• An explanation of how Mercedes College intends to implement the New SACE from 2010
• The nature of the IB Diploma and the subjects offered at Mercedes College
• Factors to be considered in choosing subjects – including tertiary and career options beyond school
• Subject displays and information from subject coordinators.
In the past, we have also produced a Curriculum CD containing information booklets to guide programme and subject choices. This year, we have decided to post these booklets on the College website to make them more accessible. This will also enable us to update the information as required.
Students will be required to make their subject choices in the week following this information evening for planning of 2010. If you have any questions regarding the information evening, the SACE and IB Diploma programmes or subject choices for 2010, please do not hesitate to call or email me. I look forward to seeing you there.
Adrian Chiarolli Director of Curriculum and Learning
This term we welcome many new students to our College!
From Italy we welcome Giovanni Pirro (11 SM) who is studying at Mercedes College for 6 months, and also Italian Exchange Students Martina Leuci and Jacopo Bononi who are visiting us for 6 weeks. From France we welcome Exchange Students Pierre Francois and Jean Zagnoli who are also at Mercedes for approximately 6 weeks. They will be great company for our current French students in Year 10, Marion Boivin Champeaux (10LC) and Cecile Perois (10DB) who have been at the school for a couple of months already.
From Macau we welcome WU Meng TAT Richard, who is in the Language Centre with other new students, CUI Qing Di and NI Yunhao from China and SO Ho Yin from Korea.
Also from Korea we welcome LEE Han Na who is in 10JB and from Vietnam we welcome LE Duc Huy in 9DR.
During the holidays many of the students travelled to local tourist places like Kangaroo Island and Victor Harbor, or to the outback town of Alice Springs and beyond. We also welcomed many visits from the parents and families of students who are studying at Mercedes including Mrs KIM from Korea, mother of KIM Song Gue (8TR), Dr WU from Macau, father of Richard WU, the Rings family of Germany, here to visit Jan-Phillip Rings (10MP), Bruce Newton, father of LE Duc Huy (9DR) from Vietnam and Mrs SO from Korea, when she brought her daughter HO Yin to settle into the Language Centre. It is always great to meet with the parents and families of our students.
I also enjoyed catching up with some of our International students during the holidays, including Marion Boivin Champeaux (10LC) who challenged my family at Bowling, and showed us Bowling – French style!
We urgently need your assistance to ensure that all our students are safe.
We have an efficient reporting process for tracking students attendance but it relies upon your cooperation.
If your child is not attending school or will be late on a particular day you are asked to advise us by phoning the
direct absentee line on 8372 3200 before 9:00am.
If a student is late, they must sign in at Catherine McAuley Office (Years 6-12) or Strathspey (Years R-5).
Mercedes College Newsletter Mercedes College Newsletter Page 7
Winter Sports Photographs R-12
Winter Sports Photographs will take place on Friday 7 August 2009 in the Sunken Garden. Photograph timetable will be distributed next week. Please ensure your child has the correct uniform/s for the photos they participate in, including correct socks and shoes.
Students who are involved in more than one photograph will need to be especially organised and take care of the various items of clothing they require. Only students in correct uniform will be photographed. Please ensure that all items of clothing are labelled, so that they can be returned if lost.
Please note that the new Reception Class Photo and Family Photographs will take place on Thursday 10 September 2009. Information will be sent home regarding time slots available for Family Photos at a later date.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries regarding Photo Day on 8372 3200.
Year 10 students will soon need to make subject choices for study in Year 11 next year. Their choices will be based on their academic interests and abilities and the criteria to meet the relevant programme requirements of the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP).
The first decision students must make is regarding which programme to follow in Year 11. To assist in clarifying the particular requirements of each programme of study, an information evening will be held on Monday 3 August. The evening will include:
• An explanation of how Mercedes College intends to implement the New SACE from 2010
• The nature of the IB Diploma and the subjects offered at Mercedes College
• Factors to be considered in choosing subjects – including tertiary and career options beyond school
• Subject displays and information from subject coordinators.
In the past, we have also produced a Curriculum CD containing information booklets to guide programme and subject choices. This year, we have decided to post these booklets on the College website to make them more accessible. This will also enable us to update the information as required.
Students will be required to make their subject choices in the week following this information evening for planning of 2010. If you have any questions regarding the information evening, the SACE and IB Diploma programmes or subject choices for 2010, please do not hesitate to call or email me. I look forward to seeing you there.
Adrian Chiarolli Director of Curriculum and Learning
This term we welcome many new students to our College!
From Italy we welcome Giovanni Pirro (11 SM) who is studying at Mercedes College for 6 months, and also Italian Exchange Students Martina Leuci and Jacopo Bononi who are visiting us for 6 weeks. From France we welcome Exchange Students Pierre Francois and Jean Zagnoli who are also at Mercedes for approximately 6 weeks. They will be great company for our current French students in Year 10, Marion Boivin Champeaux (10LC) and Cecile Perois (10DB) who have been at the school for a couple of months already.
From Macau we welcome WU Meng TAT Richard, who is in the Language Centre with other new students, CUI Qing Di and NI Yunhao from China and SO Ho Yin from Korea.
Also from Korea we welcome LEE Han Na who is in 10JB and from Vietnam we welcome LE Duc Huy in 9DR.
During the holidays many of the students travelled to local tourist places like Kangaroo Island and Victor Harbor, or to the outback town of Alice Springs and beyond. We also welcomed many visits from the parents and families of students who are studying at Mercedes including Mrs KIM from Korea, mother of KIM Song Gue (8TR), Dr WU from Macau, father of Richard WU, the Rings family of Germany, here to visit Jan-Phillip Rings (10MP), Bruce Newton, father of LE Duc Huy (9DR) from Vietnam and Mrs SO from Korea, when she brought her daughter HO Yin to settle into the Language Centre. It is always great to meet with the parents and families of our students.
I also enjoyed catching up with some of our International students during the holidays, including Marion Boivin Champeaux (10LC) who challenged my family at Bowling, and showed us Bowling – French style!
NEW Clothing at 2nd Hand PricesFriday 7 August 2009 8:30am – 4:30pm1st Floor, Strathspey in the Blue Room
Sale items are new sample garmentsSummer and winter uniforms available
Heather SambrookMercedes Parents and Friends Association
The Term 3 Blues
Life in the 21st Century can be a pressured existence and therefore we all need to be equipped with the skills and knowledge to manage this pressure effectively and enjoy life along the way.
Term 3 can be a challenging term for students, parents and teachers, where the cold and damp weather we experience, combines with the pressure that can be generated by a range of activities including Year 12 major assignments and planning for post school pathways, the Year 12 Drama Production, Year 10 planning for future course and subject options, and teacher preparation for the implementation of the new SACE to name a few.
While there is no doubt that students are faced with many challenges this term, Mercedes College offers a variety of opportunities for students to expand on their education for life and develop their personal coping skills and resilience.
These experiences include the Year 11 Retreat and preparations for nominating for 2010 Student Leadership positions, the Year 10 Canberra and Adelaide Odysseys, the Mimili Mutujula Immersion Trek, Year 8 preparations for their Musical Production, Junior School students’ preparation for their Musical, the Middle School Tournament of Minds teams preparing for Tournament Day in September, the Mercy Oration and Mercy Week awareness of and fundraising for Mercy Works.
Families are encouraged to participate in the Junior School Learning Conferences, the Senior School SACE and IB Information Evening, Year 6-10 and Year 12 Learning Reviews and the Mercy Oration.
Our aim is the education of the whole child encompassing the academic, spiritual, emotional and physical dimensions and on their learning journey, they are well supported by teachers and programmes to enable them to take up their own place in their world beyond school.
Teaching children and young people to make sense of and manage the world in which they live is definitely a joint partnership between families and the College.
Anne WayCollege Psychologist
Email/Internet ProblemsUnfortunately the College experienced some major IT
problems over the recent holidayswhich meant a loss of some data. If you have sent an email to any staff members and have not received a reply or follow, it may not have
been received. Please resend so that appropriate follow up can be provided.
Mercedes College NewsletterPage 8 Mercedes College Newsletter
News From the MP & FA
Welcome to Term 3It was especially nice to meet parents of new Reception Students, at an informal Morning Tea, on Day One. Thanks to Liz Watson, Bernadette Davey and Leah Gordon who helped with the gathering. Golf Day UpdateThe Golf Committee is now in “full swing” preparing for the Golf Day on Friday, 18 September at Echunga Golf Course. (These bad golf puns have to stop!) During the next fortnight parents will receive Information and Registration Forms and I highly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. This promises to be a great day for golfers of all standards or anyone just interested in enjoying a day in the picturesque Adelaide Hills sampling fine food and wine.
The basic details are: When: Friday, 18 September 2009 Where: Echunga Golf Course Time: 9am - 6pm via bus from Mercedes College (or own transport if preferred) Cost: $70 Golfers $30 non-Golfers (Ticket includes bus transport, beer, wine, soft drink, food and much, much more) If anyone is interested in sponsorship, donation of prizes or being a Marshall on the day please call Estée Fiebiger-Briggs at the Development Office on 8372 3266 or one of the committee: Karen Brien, Loretta Royal, Chris McMahon or myself, Jenny Dunstan (0414 860 400).
My thanks to the committee for their enthusiasm and dedication to this event so far. Everyone brings their own special skill and talent to the project and are a pleasure to work with. We also welcome Year 7 teacher, Jason De Luca as the Course Official. Magnum WineA reminder that the Limited Edition, 2003 Mitchelton Print Shiraz Magnum is still available. There are only 150 bottles all signed and with numbered labels celebrating the College Re-Development Project. To purchase a magnum, before stock runs out, please contact Bernadette Davey on 0412 891 208 or complete an order form available from Strathspey Reception
City to BayIf you are interested in running/walking as a team please contact me on 0414 860 400 for further details. Alcohol Education ProjectIn previous editions of the Mercy Vine a Parent Focus Group had been advertised on the subject of Alcohol and Teenagers. Please note that the Federation of Catholic School Parent Communities have again changed the dates and format to ONE workshop only on Monday 24 August.
If you are interested in attending and require further information please call me on 0414 860 400. Year 7 DinnerClass Representative Leo D’Antuono has organised a Year 7 dinner to be held at Suree Thai, Unley Road, Malvern on Friday 15 August. Please refer to flyer for details. Remember, look out for the Golf Day Registration Forms and book early as numbers are limited. Don’t be inhibited by your handicap, “fun” will be par for the course. (Oops, there’s another pun).
The Mercedes Wine fundraiser is coming to a close. Thanks to your support, we have sold out of the cases of Sauvignon
Blanc and Cabernet Merlot.
There are still some bottles of the 2003 Mitchelton Print Shiraz individually numbered and limited edition Magnums,
so please continue to support this fundraiser and get your magnum while they last.
The Magnum is a great idea to cellar and give to your children in years to come. They are an ideal gift as a
Graduation Memento, Old Scholar gift, particularly 18th and 21st Birthday keepsakes.
You will soon be receiving an invitation and registration form in the mail for the Mercedes College Golf Day.
There are limited places and teams are filling up fast!
Hurry to hurry resister your interest today!
We are very pleased to announce the Naming Rights Sponsor:Tagara
One of our Major Sponsors is:Banana Blue
And some of our Hole Sponsors include:Civilex Constructions
Pan Print
We will be featuring different sponsors
Mercedes College Golf Day
Mercedes College Newsletter Mercedes College Newsletter Page 9
City to BayIf you are interested in running/walking as a team please contact me on 0414 860 400 for further details. Alcohol Education ProjectIn previous editions of the Mercy Vine a Parent Focus Group had been advertised on the subject of Alcohol and Teenagers. Please note that the Federation of Catholic School Parent Communities have again changed the dates and format to ONE workshop only on Monday 24 August.
If you are interested in attending and require further information please call me on 0414 860 400. Year 7 DinnerClass Representative Leo D’Antuono has organised a Year 7 dinner to be held at Suree Thai, Unley Road, Malvern on Friday 15 August. Please refer to flyer for details. Remember, look out for the Golf Day Registration Forms and book early as numbers are limited. Don’t be inhibited by your handicap, “fun” will be par for the course. (Oops, there’s another pun).
Open B Merc 18 def CBC 6 Rostrevor away: 5.30-7.00pm
9 A Merc 6/186 def Westminster 0/117 CBC at Home: 4.00-5.00pm
9 B Merc 5/185 def Westminster 0/111 CBC at Home: 4.00-5.00pm
8 A Merc 6/189 def Immanuel 0/145 CBC at Home: 4.00-5.00pm
8 B Merc 3/166 def Immanuel 3/159 CBC at Home: 4.00-5.00pm
VolleyballJunior boys 1 Merc def Heathfield 1 countback
Day
& D
ate
Tim
eEv
ent
Venu
ePr
esen
tati
on
of
Shie
ldSh
ield
to
be
Pres
ente
d
Wed
19/8
4:1
5 –
5:0
0Se
nio
r B
oys
Cro
ss C
ountr
ySe
nio
r G
irls
Cro
ss C
ountr
ySe
nio
r C
ampus
Fr
Dav
ore
n/F
r M
ulli
ns
Boys
: Gar
y Z
euner
-Br
Pau
l Cal
lilG
irls
: Colle
en M
ori
arty
-Br
Pau
l Cal
lil
Fri
21/8
4:0
0 –
5:0
0Y
ear
8 T
able
Ten
nis
Den
net
t C
entr
eN
AN
A
4:0
0 –
5:0
0Y
ear
9 T
able
Ten
nis
Den
net
t C
entr
eN
AN
A
4:3
0 –
6:0
0Se
nio
r B
Deb
atin
gB
ella
rmin
e R
oom
Fr
Dav
ore
nX
avie
r-L
oyo
la-M
ercy
5:3
0 –
7:0
0Se
nio
r A
Deb
atin
gB
ella
rmin
e R
oom
Fr
Dav
ore
nSi
ster
Monic
a G
alliv
an-C
ampio
n
Sat
22/8
8:0
0 –
9:3
0O
pen
C B
oys
Socc
erB
auld
erst
one
Pit
ch 2
Fr
Mulli
ns
Stev
e D
e G
iova
nnie
llo-L
oyo
la
8:0
0 –
9:3
0O
pen
B B
oys
Socc
erW
alla
ce P
itch
1M
r Pet
er C
off
eyM
ick M
cEvo
y-L
oyo
la
9:3
0 –
11:0
0O
pen
A B
oys
Socc
erW
alla
ce P
itch
1M
rs A
less
andra
Mile
s T
ony
O’D
oher
ty-L
oyo
la
9:3
0 –
11:0
0Y
ear
9A
Boys
Socc
erB
auld
erst
one
Pit
ch 2
NA
NA
11:0
0 –
12:3
0Y
ear
9B
Boys
Socc
erB
auld
erst
one
Pit
ch 2
NA
NA
8:0
0 –
9:3
0Y
ear
8A
Boys
Socc
erB
auld
erst
one
Pit
ch 1
NA
NA
9:3
0 –
11:0
0Y
ear
8B
Boys
Socc
erB
auld
erst
one
Pit
ch 1
NA
NA
11:0
0 –
12:3
0Ju
nio
r A
Gir
ls S
occ
erW
alla
ce P
itch
2N
AN
A
9:3
0 –
11:0
0Se
nio
r A
Gir
ls S
occ
erW
alla
ce P
itch
2Fr
Dav
ore
n/M
r Pet
er D
awC
live
Mar
ling-
Car
olin
e C
his
holm
8:0
0 –
9:3
0Se
nio
r B
Gir
ls S
occ
erW
alla
ce P
itch
2M
rs A
less
andra
Mile
s X
avie
r-L
oyo
la-B
arry
8:3
0 –
9:3
0O
pen
C B
asket
bal
lD
ennet
t C
entr
eM
r A
ndre
w D
odso
nM
arg
Love
day
-Xav
ier
9:3
0 –
10:3
0O
pen
B B
asket
bal
lD
ennet
t C
entr
eFr
Mulli
ns
Dav
id C
orn
ish-X
avie
r
10:3
0 –
11:3
0O
pen
A B
asket
bal
lD
ennet
t C
entr
eFr
Dav
ore
n/M
r Pet
er D
awR
ick H
odge
s-X
avie
r
11:3
0 -
12:3
0Ju
nio
r A
Bas
ket
bal
lD
ennet
t C
entr
eN
AN
A
12:3
0 –
1:3
0Ju
nio
r B
Bas
ket
bal
lD
ennet
t C
entr
eN
AN
A
1:3
0 –
2:3
0Ju
nio
r C
Bas
ket
bal
lD
ennet
t C
entr
eN
AN
A
8:4
5 -
10:0
0Y
ear
8 F
ootb
all
Bourk
e O
val
NA
NA
10:1
5 -
12:0
0Y
ear
9 F
ootb
all
Bourk
e O
val
NA
NA
12:1
5 –
2:0
02nd X
VII
I Footb
all
Bourk
e O
val
Fr
Mulli
ns
Tre
genza
-O’C
onnel
l-Sh
adia
c-X
avie
r
2:1
5 –
4:3
01st
XV
III
Footb
all
Bourk
e O
val
Fr
Dav
ore
n/M
r Pet
er D
awT
roy
Bro
adbri
dge
8:3
0 –
9:3
0O
pen
A N
etbal
lSI
C C
ourt
1Fr
Dav
ore
n/M
r Pet
er D
awA
lexan
dra
Burr
-Dan
ielle
Gra
nt
9:4
5 –
11:0
0O
pen
B N
etbal
lSI
C C
ourt
1M
r Pet
er C
off
eyA
nne
Mors
e-D
anie
lle G
rant
8:3
0 –
9:3
0Y
ear
10 N
etbal
lSI
C C
ourt
2N
AN
A
9:4
5 –
11:0
0Y
ear
9 N
etbal
lSI
C C
ourt
2N
AN
A
8:3
0 –
9:4
5Y
ear
8 N
etbal
lSI
C C
ourt
3N
AN
A
9:4
5 –
11:0
0O
pen
Hock
ey -
Mix
edPult
eney
Hock
ey F
ield
TB
CSi
ster
Pat
rici
a M
cAule
y-L
oyo
la
1:0
0 –
2:0
0O
pen
A &
B C
hes
sB
ella
rmin
e R
oom
Mr
Pet
er C
off
eyM
arga
ret
Burd
en/I
lana
Culs
haw
-Fr
Gre
g O
’Kel
ly
4:4
5pm
Fin
al P
rese
nta
tions
Bel
larm
ine
Room
Fr
Dav
ore
n/M
r Pet
er D
awIg
nat
ius-
Mer
cedes
2009 Programmme of Events
9C St Ignatius 3 def Mercedes 1
8A No Game
8B St Michaels (25) def Mercedes 1 (6)
Mercedes 2 (9) def Mary Mackillop (8)
8C St Dominics 1 def Mercedes 1
SoccerSenior Mercedes 1 - Bye
Mercedes 2 (1) drew Mercedes 3 (1)
Junior Mercedes 1 (2) def Marryatville (1)
St Dominics 3 (6) def Mercedes 2 (1)
Mercedes College NewsletterPage 12
News From the Sports Desk
I would like to extend our condolescences to Mr Zeuner following the passing of his mother recently. Gary is a very well respected member of the PE and Sport Staff who has coordinated Cross Country - often joined by his wife Cheryl - with great distinction, over many years. Several staff were able to attend Mrs Seiner’s funeral and I am sure all students who know Gary and Cheryl well will remember her in a moment of prayer.
Rostrevor College brought the undefeated record of our Open Boy’s Soccer team to a close when they defeated Mercedes 5/1 in a very entertaining game of Soccer at Waite Oval on Saturday. Many chances were “coughed up” where the score could have reflected a different result but like all pressure games of sport, the opportunities presented must be fully utilised.
The 1st XV111 ventured out to Trinity College and whilst all played with great spirit, the trip home was a long one. The 2nd XV111, however made, their journey bountiful. Our thanks are extended to Richard Bednall, the Sport Coordinator at Trinity College for his hospitality and for providing a few players to ensure our shortage did not compromise the conduct of the 2nds game. It is disconcerting when players ring at such short notice to inform coaches of their inability to travel. It is worth noting that Trinity parents and players travel to Adelaide every second week and responses such as travel problems just do not stack up! Players might consider that this situation may impact on selections for the coming Intercollegiate against St Ignatius College!
The 100kms Relay teams competed with distinction on Friday winning the overall shield for the first time since 2001. This event has been a feature of SASSSA sport since 1984. The very tough event comprised 15 teams, each racing with 5 runners - three boys and two girls, together with two pacers - over 100kms from Oakbank High School to Banksia Park High School. Each runner averages 20kms of running broken up into smaller stages of approximately 3-4kms. The Mercedes Junior team broke the record - previously held by the Mercedes Junior team in 2007 by 5 minutes, a significant time improvement. The 2nd place by the Senior team provided Mercedes with an unbeatable total score to emerge as Champion School.
Congratulations to all runners and Mr Gary Zeuner for his fine work in preparing these athletes. It is noteworthy that the majority of these students backed up for playing engagements representing the College immediately afterwards on Friday at Volleyball or on Saturday for Netball, Soccer or Football. This commitment was outstanding and I thank all involved on behalf of the College.
Thank you to Mr James Reichstein who has managed the quite large numbers of Hockey players training at Adelaide Hockey Club on Friday afternoons and for matches on Saturday mornings. The Year 6/7/8 team has performed significantly well throughout the entire season.
In Week 5, the annual Intercollegiate against St Ignatius College will be held at Manresa Court Athelstone, commencing with Cross Country on Wednesday afternoon, 19 August. On Friday Table Tennis and Debating are conducted before Hockey (at
Adelaide Hockey Club), Football, Chess, Soccer, Basketball and Netball resume on Saturday 22 August. This is the culmination of the winter sporting programme and I ask parents to familiarise themselves with the programme and to ensure that players are properly attired for all competitions. Some 30 teams will be competing against SIC teams and we are expecting the usual very high standard of performance and behaviour on and off the sporting arenas from every person involved. A programme is attached.
The travelling attire to and from the venue is the College tracksuit for all teams except the 1st XV11 Football. The Year 12 jumper is NOT to be worn on the day and the fleecy top is not part of the outer sporting uniform. It may only be worn under tracksuit tops.
I am aware of a number of most unfortunate local incidents involving other schools, that have graced some sporting fields involving unsportsmanlike player behaviour and also problematic parental responses during games. I am grateful that Mercedes parents have continued to exercise and model great restraint and wisdom in front of our young players during sporting games. It is rare that our parents are categorised as “ugly” spectators and in so doing, have spared sport coordinators with the unsavoury task of dealing with such incidents. These very positive behaviours are important messages that we need to continue to give to our children.
Bill GaynorSport Coordinator
AthleticsThe Primary students will begin training for interschool competition in Week 4 of Term 3, with sessions at school from 7:30am 8:30am on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Specialist coaches will be on hand to assist the students improve their technique. Attendance will incur a charge of $15.00 towards covering coaching and carnival participation.
The first session will be on Tuesday 11 August and will continue until Thursday 10 September. All students from Years 4 to 7 are invited to train and register performances for consideration in selecting the school representative team. A letter notifying selection in the School Athletic Squad will be distributed in Week 3. The SAPSASA Schools Carnival will be held at Scotch College on Tuesday 15 September.
Little Athletics Clubs offer opportunity for supplementary training and competition. Two local clubs worth considering are Adelaide Eagles and Eastern Districts. These clubs begin their programmes in October, and have ‘come and try’ options available. Adelaide Eagles train on Friday evenings from 5:50pm in the Adelaide Parklands (Cnr. Peacock Rd and South Tce) commencing in October. $3.00 trial sessions. Eastern Districts train on Sunday mornings from 9:00am at Webb Oval, Conyngham St, Glenunga commencing in October. $5.00 trial sessions.Please contact Mr Peter Thornton for further details. Ph: 8372 3283 or Mob: 0409 049 764.
