Champion girls National titles in premier football and lacrosse
VOLUME 8.No3
T E R M 3 . 2 0 1 3 W W W. M A G S . S C H O O L . N Z
Quarterly Champion girls National titles in premier football and lacrosse
On the cover: Premier girls’ football and lacrosse teams, Year 11 Drama performance at Alberton, Physics trip to NASA Space Camp, spring on the school farm. Deadline for Term 4 Quarterly: End of Week 4, Friday 8 November. All articles and photos (JPEGS must include student names) to Communications Manager, esarney@mags.school.nz
VOLUME 8.No3
Headmaster’s Report
3
New staff
4
Community service
5
Pasifika, Maori, Careers
6
MAGS farm news
7
Academic news
8-11
Creative writing
12-14
T E R M 3 . 2 0 1 3 W W W. M A G S . S C H O O L . N Z
Mount Albert Grammar School Alberton Avenue, Mount Albert, Auckland 1025 T (09) 846 2044 F (09) 846 2042 E headmaster@mags.school.nz
School Contacts
Deans 2013
Dean of Year 9 Boys
Mr Philip Kotze
pkotze@mags.school.nz
Dean of Year 9 Girls
Katie McColl
kmcoll@mags.school.nz
Dean of Year10 Boys
Mr Andy Belson
abelson@mags.school.nz
Dean of Year 10 Girls
Ms Va Anisi
vanisi@mags.school.nz
Deans of Year11
Ms Helen Sutcliffe
hsutcliffe@mags.school.nz
Mr Kerry Baker kbaker@mags.school.nz Deans of Year12
Mr Martin Wright Mr Adam Simpson
15
Performing arts
16-17
International Students
18-19
School ball
20
Sports news
21-34
Corridors
35-38
mwright@mags.school.nz
Ms Jess Lythe jlythe@mags.school.nz Deans of Year 13
Art auction
asimpson@mags.school.nz
Ms Natasha Phyn nphyn@mags.school.nz Attendance Officer
Ms Lee Iswar
attendance@mags.school.nz
International Dean
Mr Ian Cole
icole@mags.school.nz
Senior Dean (Responsibilities in senior school academic monitoring)
School property supporters 39 School calendar
40
Mr Greg Cave gcave@mags.school.nz Academic Dean (Special responsibility for the Academic Institute) Mr Warwick Gibbs wgibbs@mags.school.nz Homestays required: We welcome applications from caring families within easy travel distance of the school to provide short or longer-term homestays for our international boys and girls. If you have a spare bedroom and are interested, please contact Mrs Corinne Brewer, Homestay Coordinator, ph 846 2044 x 8187, email: cbrewer@mags.school.nz
2
For all advertising enquiries in the Quarterly please contact Tim Kay Director of Advancement tkay@mags.school.nz Ph (09)815 4034 or Mobile 021 6366803
AK Electrical for commercial and domestic We specialise in installation and maintenance
• Hot water repairs • Stove repairs • Phone and data repairs • Office maintenance • Lights and power points AK Electrical P: M: E: A:
CALL KEVIN TODAY... 625 5414 (027) 493 2414 kevin@akelectrical.co.nz PO Box 27-155, Auckland 1440
www.akelectrical.co.nz
THE HEADMASTER
Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Albertians and the Wider Mount Albert School Community My gratitude to all those parents who have assisted a sports team or other school activity this winter by giving their time, effort and/or money. The fundraising machines of some teams and the parental organisation behind the scenes are humbling to see. As I keep telling the students, without the support of adults in a variety of roles the numerous opportunities our school offers would not happen. They are very fortunate. This term there have been many highlights. The series of Arts productions was outstanding. We have enjoyed the junior school’s production, Junior Bytes, the seniors’ Arts Alive show, the annual music concert, the Year 12 drama Lysistrata and the Year 11 Living History production at historic Alberton. The students’ performances were as good as, if not better than, any during my time here in the last ten years. The talent we have at this school in the Arts is quite outstanding. They are taught by professionals at the top of their craft, and it shows. We need now to match these performances with more support from the wider school community, and better facilities. While it is wonderful to have hundreds turning out to watch our sports teams, it’s a great pity that barely 100 get involved in support of the Arts performances. The entry charge may be a barrier and that is being reviewed. The reality is that those not there are missing some of the country’s top secondary school talent and an opportunity to support them. I would like to draw parents’ attention to the growing number of interruptions to student attendance at school. Some of the interruptions are caused by subjects that require students to learn outside the classroom for longer periods of time than is allocated by the timetable. While this is very important and recognises that learning takes place everywhere, it does take students away from other classes. Sport also takes students out of school. Recently, we had 163 students away for Tournament Week. Each student had to get permission from staff in order to be absent. While away from the traditional learning environment, students had the opportunity to learn other things about themselves and others in the context of a sports trip. These absences are part of wider learning and are organised and planned by the school. However, there are a growing number of regional and national
The Headmaster, Dale Burden
representative sides taking students out of school for tournaments, or the “opportunity to be seen by someone somewhere”. And finally, too many students are going to physio during class time, to the point that we have now banned Year 13s from attending physio during class time and have put restrictions on all other levels. I ask parents to help me make the most of their child’s time at school by looking at the big picture of how many days your child has already had out of the classroom before booking a holiday during term time, or allowing your child to go on a sports trip not connected with the school. I am never going to make decisions for families and appreciate that an overseas trip presents plenty of rich learning opportunities. I only ask that you consider that time away in light of how much school your child will miss during the whole year. There is research that supports the fact that absence from school has a negative impact on achievement. I invite you to Google this topic for further reading. I would like to pay a tribute to the departing Business Manager, Dr Valda Youdale. She has been outstanding in her role. The excellent financial position that the school is in is thanks to her diligent management of the school’s finances. She has also been an excellent member of the Senior leadership team and I have always found her a sensible and intelligent “sounding board” for all sorts of initiatives and ideas. Valda will be missed, but she leaves a great legacy and plenty of fond memories. Finally, I want to extend best wishes to all students sitting external and internal examinations next term.
Proudly sponsored by Anne Duncan Real Estate Ltd. MREINZ LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENT (REAA 2008)
VOLUME 8.No2
TERM 2.2013
Quarterly
3
New staff
New parents’ group
Mr Aubrey Coup
Friends of MAGS
Aubrey Coup has joined the Science department in the field of Biology. Born and bred in Auckland, Aubrey has taught previously at Parnell College and, after enjoying half a gap year, he is pleased to have returned to teaching. As well as his passion for the sciences, Aubrey is addicted to films and has been a long term Blackcaps supporter.
Ms Andriana Gueorguieva Andriana Gueorguieva was with us for term 3 relieving Michelle Farmer as a teacher of Agricultural Science. Originally from Bulgaria, Andriana lived in Mozambique and moved to New Zealand in 1998. She studied at the University of Auckland where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Biological Sciences, and then completed her Graduate Diploma in Teaching (Secondary) in 2007. Andriana was at Marcellin College and Diocesan School for Girls for her teaching placements. She enjoys travelling, getting to know new cultures and learning new languages. Michelle Farmer returns to MAGS in term 4.
Mr Simon Allen Simon Allen has taken over as Head of Media Studies. Simon worked at Massey High School in various roles from 2007, before deciding to join Mount Albert Grammar’s well resourced Media and English department. As well as his passion for films and music, Simon is addicted to golf and the outdoors. ************************************
Stop press!
German students top in Auckland Emily Cavell (left) and Rosa Henderson were named joint winners in the Auckland region of the Goethe Society German Competition for students who have completed one year’s study of the language. Following a written paper, Emily and Rosa, both in Year 10, were among a select group of students from competing schools who were recalled to sit an oral exam. Rosa and Emily performed outstandingly well and the examiners were unable to separate them. They were thus awarded joint first prize - a well-deserved reward for their diligence and perseverance. 4
A new committee of MAGS parents has been launched to help gather friends of the school and raise funds. It will operate in tandem with the MAGS Parents group, which focuses on giving parents an insight into how the school operates. Friends of MAGS has been established by Tim Kay, the Director of Advancement for the Mount Albert Grammar School Foundation. Its key objectives will be to engage with MAGS parents and make them feel welcome and part of the greater MAGS community, partly through “friend-raising” events, and to host fundraising events for specific school projects that will directly benefit the school and our students. The founding committee is made up of the following MAGS parents: Craig Cassidy, Chairman Ian Moody, Deputy Chairman Desley Cotton, Secretary Karen Blanchard Tom Cooper Belinda Fellowes Kyla Harkness Nathan Inkpen Mandy Leeson Sheryl McEwen Suzanne McNamara Shelley McSwiney Ron Murray Alison Twaddle Annette Pitovao Saga Frost “The Friends of MAGS Committee will bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and ensure parents have the chance to meet one another in a social setting and form closer ties with the school,” says Tim Kay. Meeting dates until the end of the year are: Tuesday 15 October Tuesday 5 November Tuesday 3 December All will take place at 5pm in the Headmaster’s office. If you are interested in joining the committee please contact Tim Kay, ph 815 4034 or email tkay@mags. school.nz
Community
Shave for a Cure Among the teachers and students who had their hair shaved off on 29 August in aid of Leukaemia & Blood Cancer New Zealand was MAGS’ first Pacific Island girl to take part in this annual fundraiser.Year 13 student Natahlya Va’ai says Samoan and Tongan culture dictates that girls should not cut their hair until their father passes, but her parents Norman and Simaima (pictured) agreed to her request to break tradition to help this cause. They attended the event to support her. In keeping with tradition, Natahlya’s hair was made into a cord that wraps around the top of flax skirts worn by Pacific Island people to church and on special occasions. “My music teacher passed away in 2010 from leukaemia,” says Natahlya. “I’m not going to hide my bald head with hats or scarves, because the whole point of doing this is to draw attention to the cause.” About a dozen other students and teachers joined Natahlya in the school gym to make the same brave gesture. Art history teacher, Ms Elianna Gabriel, had more to lose than most. Ms Gabriel (pictured with ESOL and German teacher Ms Melanie Bremner) had grown her hair since she was eight years old, until it was 75cm long, reaching down to her hips. “My hair was an important part of me, but when I heard that other people with really long hair were shaving it off to help others, I thought I could do that too,” says Ms Gabriel. Not only did she raise sponsorship money to make the cut, but Ms Gabriel also donated her hair to a wig-making organisation that helps cancer-sufferers feel better about their appearance. “Hair is a cosmetic thing, and it grows back. This is something I could choose to do, but many people with cancer don’t have that choice,” says Ms Gabriel. Other teachers who took part were Ms Sarnia Slabbert, Mr Gordon Smith, Mr Adam Simpson and Mr Mark Rivalland. “As you get older you come into contact with cancer more and more,” said Ms Gabriel. “I had a friend die of leukaemia, and have family members who have survived. Cutting my hair is a small sacrifice compared to what they’ve been through.” Together the students and teachers raised about $6000.
ASB Community Awards MAGS’ ASB Community Bursary Award winners attended a celebratory luncheon at Eden Park on 17 September. These awards celebrate outstanding community From left: Anika Radojkovich, Kuldeep involvement by Dalvi, Ruth Lever, Jamie Hucklesby and Year 13 students Amelia Scharting. throughout New Zealand, both in and out of school. The awards are part of ASB Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting sustainable New Zealand communities. The school was able to nominate five students; each received $150. The students selected were Amelia Scharting, Ruth Lever, Jamie Hucklesby, Kuldeep Dalvi and Anika Radojkovich. These students were involved in voluntary activities ranging from mentoring, coaching and tree-planting through to feeding the elderly, helping at the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and coaching Special Olympic Gymnasts. The 200 students at the luncheon came from all over Auckland and heard a presentation from Mr Wayne Howett, CEO of Ronald McDonald House, about the work done in the name of that charity. Warwick Gibbs
Sports volunteer award Head girl Amelia Scharting is the first winner of Sport Auckland’s new monthly award for Student Volunteer of the Month. Amelia is a member of the premier lacrosse team, which won the national title this year, and she also represented New Zealand in the Lacrosse World Championships in Canada. She has also got involved in the growth of the sport at MAGS. Director of Sport Mr David Long credits Amelia with doubling the number of girls’ teams this season from two to four. “Amelia helped in everything that had to be done in setting up four girls’ lacrosse teams this year, including sourcing equipment from overseas to enable the girls to play,” says Mr Long. New Zealand under-19 women’s lacrosse assistant coach Jess Evans presented Amelia with a Sanitarium prize pack. Evans assisted coaching the MAGS’ first team and enjoyed revisiting the school. “Volunteers are essential for minority sports such as lacrosse,” says Ms Evans. “Without the support of volunteers, lacrosse would not be as popular or as established as it currently is in New Zealand.”
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly
5
Pasifika achievers Documentary on All Black great A documentary on MAGS old boy and former All Black Bryan Williams earned accolades for a group of Pasifika students. The six chosen to take part in the Achievers Project run by the Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs were selected for their leadership, confidence, talent at researching and writing and success in Media Studies. Representatives from the Ministry and a film crew from Attitude Pictures helped mentor the students to make a two-minute documentary about a Pasifika achiever. The person they chose could be a former student of their school, someone who inspired them, was a role model, and of Pacific Island descent. The MAGS students chose Bryan Williams as an Albertian, All Black great, and for his services to rugby, Pasifika sport, Manu Samoa and to his old school as a past Director of Rugby. The MAGS filmmakers were acknowledged for being the most organised group of all the schools involved in the project, and for producing one of the best documentaries. The Achievers Project aims to help Pasifika students excel, to inspire other Pasifika youth and celebrate Pasifika success.
The Pasifika film-makers with their subject, All Black great and Albertian Bryan Williams. From left, Mikaela Napa’a, Shekynah Clarke, Natahlya Va’ai, Bryan Williams, Sane-Va Ginnen, Luseane Lousi, Eikura William and mentor Brioni Gray from Attitude Pictures.
Maori assembly An assembly for Maori students carried inspiring messages from guest speaker Hayley Clarke, the Finance & Operations Manager at Fujifilm NZ. Ms Clarke attended Auckland Girls’ Grammar and the University of Auckland, completing a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in accountancy. Her two children attended MAGS. She urged Maori students to find out about their personal and cultural heritage. “You will find strength and support in learning more about who you are,” said Ms Clarke.
6
When she started at Auckland University there were few Maori studying accountancy, but there is now greater focus on nurturing Maori students through tertiary study thanks to the Institute of Chartered Accountants. “All over the world there are ethnic groups striving to maintain their identity,” she said. Ms Clarke then offered words of advice from Sir Apirana Ngata, the first Maori to gain a university degree and a prominent politician and lawyer: “E tipu, e rea, i ngaa raa o toou ao.” Grow and branch forth in the days of your world. “Toou ringa ki te raakau a te Paakehaa hei oranga mo toou tinana.” Your hand may grasp the material things of the west so that you may prosper. “Toou ngaakau ki ngaa taonga o oou tuupuna, hei tikitiki mo toou maahunga.” Open your heart to the treasures of your ancestors, make them adornments for your mind.
Careers Term 3 is a time when the Careers Centre supports hundreds of students as they seek information to support their subject choices for the following year, or their plans for the next step after they leave school. More than 400 students have attended appointments with one or other of the Careers Advisors who are based in the Centre. These appointments vary from the “just a quick question” (which almost inevitably leads to a rather longer question) through to appointments attended by parents as well as students. It is often easier for parents to come in to see us either before or after school and we are very happy to fit in with their other family and work commitments. The end of term 3 sees completion of the smaller but still important task of Year 9 students making their option choices for Year 10. By the time they finalise these choices, all Year 9 classes have been visited for two lessons to encourage them to make well thought out decisions. All students are reminded to give consideration to a range of issues, including their abilities, their interests and their preferences for different styles of work and so on. There is no urgency about making actual career decisions at this stage; it is more important that students reflect on possible broader pathways and do not restrict any possible future goals by choices they make now. For those Year 13 students who are going on to degree studies, there have been opportunities for course planning, as staff from universities have visited MAGS to assist students in the challenges of preparing for the next stage of their studies. These students have also been supported through the process of applying for a range of scholarships and, in some cases, accommodation for universities outside Auckland. All Year 13 students have been interviewed at the Careers Centre during 2013 as part of our programme to work alongside them on their final year.
MAGS Farm
Spring babies delight students Farm manager Larney Palmer is busy – he has a record 41 lambs to keep an eye on, 14 piglets, four “foster” calves to pair with milking cows, and three or four tours to give to pre-school groups each week. In short, it’s spring on the farm. Auckland’s mild winter was kind to MAGS’ ewes, who gave birth to the most lambs the farm has raised in any one year. They are loving the sunny days, and already have a short coat of thick wool to keep them warm on chilly nights. The farm sow had 14 piglets, and Larney says she barely moved from her pile of hay in the first few days after the birth to allow her babies to feed and sleep next to her. The four foster calves look right at home with their new mothers, who are happy to feed them to keep their milk production going. All these baby animals are enjoyed by pre-school groups who make the most of spring to plan their visits. At only $5 a head it’s an affordable way of introducing city children to a slice of the farming industry on which New Zealand is built. Where else in Auckland can a four-year-old get to feed a lamb with a bottle of milk? Larney also gives them a shearing demonstration, and the youngsters leave wide-eyed, clutching handfuls of freshly shorn wool. Also enjoying the season have been MAGS students studying Agricultural Science. Year 10 students can take the subject as an option, and from Year 11 it can be taken as a full time course. This year there are six Year 10 classes, four Year 11 classes and two Year 13 classes. Each class is kept to 10 students for ease of learning and teaching. MAGS’ farm offers Auckland students a unique opportunity to prepare for further study towards a variety of careers in New Zealand’s primary sector.
Mrs Pig has been flat out looking after her14 piglets. Farm tours for pre-school groups are popular at this time of year.
The farm offers opportunities unique to Auckland students.
The piglets at one day old.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly
7
Food Technology
Social Sciences
Silver medal in barista competition
Quiz teams score high
Year 13 Food Technology student Charlotte Dunkley beat professional baristas to win a silver medal at the NZ Culinary Fare in August. A student of Mrs Meenu Sood, Charlotte qualified to compete by winning gold in the Auckland Secondary Schools’ Barista Competition. At the Culinary Fare, a trade event where top Charlotte Dunkley was the only secondary chefs and baristas student among 44 competitors. from all over New Zealand compete for honours, Charlotte was the only secondary student among 44 competitors. She made the final four and had two judges observing her making coffee and two judges tasting the end result. “It was distracting, but I just tried to ignore them,” smiled Charlotte. Mrs Sood said the judges at the Schools final commented on Charlotte’s composure under pressure, which would serve her well if she pursued a career in the hospitality industry. Charlotte, however, plans to train in early childhood teaching, so her coffee-making skills will be reserved for holiday jobs and part-time work.
MAGS’ history and geography teams performed with distinction at regional competitions in August. Three teams competed in the annual Year 11 History Quiz against 67 teams from across the North Island. All performed extremely well Year 11 History Quiz Team 2. Back row from left: with Team Daniel Rudd, Bruno Batinica, Richard Enright. 2 coming Front row: Max Johansson-Pugh, Nicholas second equal Claypole, Matthew Horrocks on 75 points. Mount Albert Grammar has a strong tradition in this competition. In 2012 we came third, in 2011 we came second and in 2010 we were first. The three teams are to be congratulated for their superb performance. Team 1: Hrishikesh Kodthuguli, Finn Campbell, Albert Carnell - 72 points 6th equal Team 2: Daniel Rudd, Max Johansson-Pugh, Nicholas Claypole, - 75 points 2nd equal (pictured) Team 3: Richard Enright, Bruno Batinica, Matthew Horrocks 73 points 4th equal.
Maths MAGS’ top maths students performed extremely well in a university maths programme and a national competition. Eleven scholarship students took the MAX programme through Auckland University during the first semester, equivalent to a stage one tertiary maths course. Successfully completing this course enables students to apply for accelerate programmes at university and provides an easy transition into tertiary study. In the national Eton Press Senior Maths Competition, three MAGS students came in the top 100 out of more than 1200 entrants. They were Ryan Cory-Wright, Yr 12, Oliver Chen, Yr 13, and Yixan Ma, Yr 13. Head of Maths, Mr Allan Sangster, says the students’ results are proof of MAGS’ high expectations for achievement. While statistics is considered “easier”, by some, than calculus at senior level, with the national ratio being 3:1 in favour of students taking statistics, at MAGS more students opt for calculus. Calculus is essential to gaining entry to an engineering degree, and, consequently, Mr Sangster and Mrs McHardy, who are both engineering graduates from Auckland University, are proud that MAGS is one of the highest contributors of students to Auckland University’s engineering school. “We take pride in nurturing our students from Year 9 to reach their full potential,” says Mr Sangster. 8
In geography, two teams competed at the Maatangi Whenua Year 11 competition at St Cuthbert’s College. Rebekah Van Dort, Gilbert Patten-Elliott and Leon Gibson secured third place, with the highest score of the night in the map skills round. Samuel Cummins, Jennie Sao and Oliver Owen were just one point behind them in fourth place, this team getting the top score in the Where are you? round.
Year 11 Geography Quiz Team. Back row from left: Samuel Cummins, Oliver Owen, Gilbert Patten-Elliott, Leon Gibson. Front: Jennie Sao and Rebekah Van Dort.
The AGTA Senior Geography Quiz for Year 13 students was held at St Cuthbert’s with 28 schools in attendance. The MAGS team (pictured, from left) William Turner, Samuel Dale, Daniel Nisbett and Sean Lawrence (absent) also did very well in the map trail round and gained a perfect 10 out of 10 for Geography in the News. Overall, MAGS finished fifth, missing a place in the final four playoff by a single point.
Academic news
Physics
Year 12 & 13 challenge
Trip to NASA Space Camp
Expedition to Peru
During the July holidays, a group of 26 physics students attended Space Camp at Huntsville, Alabama. The students completed several simulated space missions and were trained in various micro-gravity situations. After graduation they travelled to the Boeing Factory in Seattle. They toured the factory, seeing planes being constructed in the largest building, by volume, in the world. After 10 days of intense physics, they ended on a relaxed note at the Disneyland and Universal Studios theme parks in Los Angeles. The students would like to thank physics teacher Ms Sarnia Slabbert, who organised the trip, and the other two teachers who accompanied them, Mr Ben Conway and Ms Robina Nisha.
A month-long World Expedition trip to southern Peru exposed 22 students to a different culture and new experiences that developed their leadership skills, and pushed them out of their comfort zones. The group began their journey at Cusco in the Andes, coping with the 3200m altitude as they met the locals, and then went on to the small town of Ollantaytambo to undertake the trip’s project – helping build the foundations of a girls’ dormitory at a school. The group then travelled to Machu Picchu to explore the historic site, before moving on to Lake Titicaca to visit the curious Uros Island – floating piles of reeds stacked on mud on which people live. The group did their main trek out of Colca Canyon. They saw Andean Condors, slept in bamboo huts next to hot springs, and finished the walk at accommodation called Oasis, where there was a pool of cold, refreshing mountain water. They went white-water rafting out of Arequipa, before travelling back to sea level to the town of Paracas. On a boat trip to a marine reserve they saw penguins, pelicans, dolphins and sea lions. Student Sydney Vari says everyone came home “feeling different,” not least because of their exposure to communities that live with far less than most New Zealanders. “I feel I speak for the majority of the group when I say that it was one of the most enjoyable, memorable experiences of a lifetime. Living in a less fortunate country and experiencing firsthand the hardship and difficulties that they experience every day has opened our eyes to the world.” The students would like to thank teachers Ms Helen Sutcliffe and Mr Andy Belson.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly
9
Languages
Gateway
Guest Mandarin and Tai Chi teacher
Taking off into the future
This year we are lucky to welcome Qiang Han to work in our school as a Mandarin language assistant. He is one of 28 Mandarin Language Assistants from China, working in 60 New Zealand schools under this year’s programme, organised by the Confucius Institute in Auckland with the Ministry of Education. His role is to assist the teaching of Mandarin more effectively, to provide information and insight into Chinese culture and language and to demonstrate accurate pronunciation and intonation. He brings, by his presence, the language, culture and country into the classroom. He provides opportunities for students to hear a young native speaker, stimulating genuine classroom communications. He assists teachers by making small group work possible and more effective, and enables more students to take part in individual conversations. Qiang Han is also a very talented Tai Chi exponent and he has been keen to teach students the exercise, which they really enjoyed.
Jenelle Chitty didn’t think she would finish term 3 as a bit of an expert in New Zealand’s aviation history, but that’s what she’s become through MAGS’ Gateway programme. Jenelle, Yr 12, spent each Wednesday for 10 weeks during terms 2 and 3 at MOTAT as a tour guide assistant. One of her jobs was researching this country’s aviation highlights so she could speak to groups at the Aviation Display Hall on Meola Road. “It was pretty awesome,” says Jenelle of her tour guide experience. “I helped the educators and had people give me advice on how to speak to groups. It was fun and interesting, and I learned a lot.” She finished her placement with a glowing reference from MOTAT management, which will help her pursue a career in travel and tourism. She is saving money earned from retail work to fund a Contiki trip around Europe next year so she can observe other tour guides, and, in 2015, plans to do a travel course.
Commerce Shadow a Leader Day
Competition success Year 12 students Luke Butler (pictured) and Phillip Duncan-Gelder represented Mount Albert Grammar at the 2013 Auckland Regional Chinese Bridge Speech Competition for secondary students at The University of Auckland. Luke won first prize, and Phillip came third. Luke was selected to participate in the National Chinese Speech Competition, and came second. Congratulations to Luke on this significant achievement. Luke continues the tradition of excellence among our students in this examination. Former students William Walker and David Tuipulotu both won this competition and were awarded scholarships to study in China. Luke will represent New Zealand as an observer in the semi-final and final of the Chinese Bridge Speech Competition for foreign secondary students in China in October. All the costs will be covered by Hanban, the Chinese National Office for Teaching Chinese as a Foreign Language.
10
The second annual AUT Business School’s Shadow a Leader day had 50 AUT students and 50 Auckland secondary school students paired with 50 business leaders as the leaders went about their daily tasks. Jessica Munro and AUT student Three MAGS students were Thomas Goldsbury with Auckland involved - Jessica Munro, Waterfront CEO John Dalzell. Fox Slotemaker and Henry Photo/Fairfax Media. Waller. Jessica joined Auckland Waterfront chief executive John Dalzell for a day of meetings, progress inspections and discussions surrounding leadership. She attended meetings about a conflict of interest and lease negotiations and visited the Daldy St construction site where Auckland Waterfront was building a green park and slow-speed street from Victoria Park to Wynyard Point. Fox shadowed Trish McClean, the CEO at Retail World Resourcing, and Henry shadowed Karen Silk, the General Manager of Westpac Institutional Bank NZ. Henry was given the opportunity to return to Westpac at a later date to get guidance on how to pursue a career in the financial markets. The programme was part of the Sir Peter Blake Trust Leadership Week.
Academic news
Outdoor Education
For videos of this year’s Outdoor Education trips, please visit the MAGS Outdoor Education YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/MAGSOutdoorEducation
During term three the Year 13 Outdoor Education class honed their mountain bike skills at Woodhill Mountain Bike Park in preparation The Year 10 class on the Montana Heritage Trail in the Waitakeres. for the 42 Traverse, a 42km wilderness mountain bike ride in the Tongariro Forest. The trip included the Whakarewarewa Mountain Bike Park in Rotorua. The two Year 12 classes spent the term preparing for a five-day journey in the central North Island. They completed a three-day tramp in the Waitakere Ranges from the Arataki Visitor Centre, down to Karamatura Valley, over to Whatipu and then up to Karekare. Their five-day journey started at Ohakune. They tramped The Year 12 class on their three-day tramp the ‘Around to Karekare beach. the Mountain’ Tongariro track, mountain biked, abseiled and canoed on Lake Rotoaira. The Year 11 PE Performance Outdoor Education class used an overnight tramp to develop their interpersonal skills, notably effective communication, cooperation and problem solving. They started near Piha and navigated their way down to Mercer Bay, past Karekare to Pararaha Valley Campground. Here they had to set up fly shelters and cook as small groups. The next day’s challenge was to navigate their way off-track to Whatipu. This saw the groups fight their way through dense bush, climb steep terrain and swim/wrestle their way across a swamp. To get to the finish they then walked up the long road to Mt Donald McLean. Year 10 students learned about bushcraft, including environmental care, navigation, clothing and equipment. They visited the Waitakere Ranges to complete an eightkilometre day tramp around the Montana Heritage Trail. Here they visited the Waitakere Dam and saw impressive groves of Kauri.
* For high performance outdoor clothing and equipment made for the toughest conditions, visit a Macpac store near you and sign up to their Wilderness Club for free. Mention your connection to MAGS and receive 20% off the full retail price of all Macpac products in all stores. 10% of your purchase will return to the MAGS Outdoor Education department to be used to purchase clothing and equipment for students to use. * Outdoor Education thanks Auckland Canoe & Kayak for its ongoing support. Visit them at 502 Sandringham Road, Sandringham for quality advice, equipment, courses and trips.
A group of 17 students working on their Silver Award (pictured) went on a two day practice expedition in the Waitakere Ranges to learn and develop their bush and campcraft skills. They were expected to navigate, camp and cook over the weekend in readiness for their qualifying expedition early next year - a three day, 40km expedition through the Waitakere Ranges. My thanks to Miss Absolum for accompanying and helping out on this trip. We have about 127 students enrolled in the Bronze programme, some of whom will go on a camp from 23– 25 November and the rest in early 2014. My thanks goes to Mrs Wilson who is coordinating the Bronze Award. It is fantastic to see so many students involved, with the support of their parents. Andy Belson
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 11
Margaret Mahy Starlight Writing Competition Prose and poetry from Year 10 students were entered in this national competition.
The Ones Who Dare By Rosa Henderson
We used to see the stars. I stare up at the sky, back hunched like an irate cat to the biting wind. A crumpled paper flutters across the splintered wood beneath my feet. It catches on the decrepit leg of an ancient chair, long welded here by binding orange rust. The paper hangs there, its secrets folded inside, like a promise discarded and forgotten. I shrug. We gave up centuries ago. We cast off our telescopes, star maps, hopes and dreams sending them into the vast abyss of the Darkness; that desolate void enveloping the Earth. Astringent anger dissolved into Ruby Darin, Year 12 abandonment. Disappointment morphed to ignorance. The Darkness defines us, inescapable, impenetrable and suffocating. The Ancients looked to the sky for comfort, but we look up with dread. I rise, holding a fist up against the endless black. I remember a wrinkled image I found once. A smear of ink embellished with a puckered sphere of pale yellow. Underneath, one word: MOON. A noise from behind startles me. I throw myself behind a row of shelves and lie, barely daring to breathe. Getting caught here would result in severe punishment. I stare unflinchingly at the hole in the ceiling through which the Darkness regards my trembling form with an icy, watchful eye. A girl’s face appears in the periphery of my vision. Two luminous eyes gaze at me. She beckons me forward with a slim finger, her mass of dark curls too big for her tiny figure. She has a sort of wild appearance, like an untamed animal. Wordlessly we regard each other. She holds the crumpled paper and slowly opens it. Although the page is coated in a thin stratum of dust, it reveals an astounding sight. She grins at my mouth agape, as I survey the image I’d thought the Darkness had stolen forever. It is a beautiful chaos of colour on inky black, like something blown apart and haphazardly stuck together. A mess of purples, yellows and sunset pinks, as if someone has thrown a rainbow at the Darkness in a fit of rage and defiance, and it shattered on impact. Exotic jewels of light stud the Darkness – the stars. In that moment, the girl shows me that beyond the Darkness the stars remain although humanity has condemned them lost forever. The Coal Sack, the Jewel Box. Alpha Centauri and Beta Centauri. The Southern Cross - used to guide mankind for centuries. The stars unite us, but no longer in longing. We both know they are simply held captive by the Darkness. Time passes. It could be
12
minutes or a millennium. The stars hold me in their grip. While the Darkness fills me with fear; the stars fill me with hope. The girl clambers onto an ancient, split table. It’s as if she could reach up and pluck the stars from the prison of human ignorance. She is silhouetted by the Darkness, hair a tangled nebula in the wind, skin as dark as the sky above, eyes shining. A sudden urge compels me to know more about this girl. “I never caught your name.” “It’s Delta.” She glances back expectantly. “What’s yours?” I’d never given much thought to a name. Alone on the streets, names were a luxury. I think of the stars, shining and waiting. The stars never give in. Maybe the only people who ever see a glint of light in the Darkness are the ones who dare to look up. Like Delta. Like me. Drawing a deep breath, I announce my new name to the stars beyond. “Centauri.”
A Tale of the Stars By Victoria Ting
Stars are like beautiful lights. They smile at me with gentle eyes. I see the Spring to the Seasons, Aquarius, Thy godly Greek vase restores life to the Nile Hoani Taylor, Year 12 But poor Pisces, fish of the atmosphere, Imprisoned in its ropes of horror Restricted from the infinite blue beyond. I see Orion, the immense, legendary hunter. And know that on the other end of the sky lies Scorpius. The killer. I wonder, if Ophiuchus did not lie between them, Would Orion’s existence be known? I see the mystical horse, Pegasus. Its exquisite stature dazzles me. Her miraculous hooves dig the beginning to Hippocrene, And the river’s blessed water renews poetry to mankind. How Pegasus revives beauty to this world! I see the northern crab, Cancer, the sun to the night sky. He shines delightfully, like his stars are made of gold. But the almighty hero, Hercules, Who killed and placed Leo amongst stars, Now joins him in the darkness above. I see Gemini, the twin gods united in heavens, Longing to realize their inseparable fate as one. While Virgo, goddess of wheat and agriculture Grasps Libra, scales of justice, And regards the plentiful world. So when I see stars I don’t just see lights. I see pictures painted in the sky. I see life unfolding before my eyes. I see another world.
Creative writing and Visual Arts
Darkness
Year 9 Poetry
By Abbey Lissaman Shadow Rippling beneath the blanket of the sky Darkness stirs Animal Roused by the sudden quiet of night Darkness awakes Lone owl Soaring in the inky sky Darkness arises Outbreak Flowing over the landscape Darkness spreads Murderer Destroying all light in its path Darkness devours The hunted Aware of the approaching day Darkness retreats Dormant Peaceful slumber Darkness sleeps Waiting‌ Waiting for the night to arrive once more.
Like Butterflies and Flowers By Claudia Te Ahuru-Kakahi My name is Claudia like Claude or Claudius if I was in France or Ancient Rome. I was 7 pounds, 8 ounces like 7 blocks of butter. I was tall like my baby doll at home in the toy box and as long as our mail box. I was happy as birds in the morning and as quiet as a cat at night.
Sarah Delfos, Year 13
Sports became my passion like a netball player shooting a goal and a rugby player scoring a try. I guess my name is pretty unique and different from all the rest. I think it suits me. It makes me feel beautiful and confident.
Rain Drops
By Rohaib Basar
Peter Rees, teacher
I lay awake in the palm of the night within my mum’s soft hands. Everyone was sprinkling names on my face like every drop of the rain. I was so close to be named Jamal like the shine of the sun, as beautiful as a rose. But then that one phone call changed my name from Jamal to Rohaib. Everybody thought that name was unique like every snowflake. My dad thought my name meant beauty, my mum thought it was helpful but to me it meant everything. Everyone was happy with this name that my aunty gave to me. So there I was Rohaib Basar, like thunder, like wisdom. I was Rohaib, like the great, like the powerful me.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 13
Creative writing
He was sweet and chunky , like a chocolate chip cookie.
My dad first heard the name through lines, telephone lines. It was unique, beautiful, different. He said to my mum “What do you think of the name Tiri?”
When he grew older he became outgoing, adventurous and animal friendly You could even say he was Tarzan, running around the house like crazy.
My mum said “Maybe when baby’s born we’ll see if she looks like a Tiri.”
His parents raised him up wise, strong and smart.
And I did…. In my mum’s eyes I’m still her little birdie.
Tarzan or a Saviour? By Joshua Williams
As a new baby arrived into the family, his name was a mystery a bit like Shaggy and Scooby.
He was a born leader known as Joshua Jesse Williams. His name itself means SAVIOUR.
Over my short lifetime I have been mistaken for Tori, Teri and Tui, but I know who I am. And now you know too! I’m me. I’m Tiri.
Alexandra Dean, Year 12
Tiri – a Scattering of Seed By Tiri Soppet
My name means a cleansing of tapu. A scattering of seed. I’m Tiri. Like the lush green island, a protected bird sanctuary, for endangered, native birds. I was nearly going to be Ellie, until my aunty said “Ellie-elephant,” So that was it No Ellie, instead Tiri.
14
Louisa Howse, Year 12
Lauren Walker, Year 11
Creative writing and Visual Arts
Art Auction 2013 MAGS talent hammered home The annual MAGS Art Auction on Thursday, 29 August was even more successful than last year, with more than $12,000 made from the live auction, silent auction, door sales, bar and raffle sales. All works were by students and art staff, who received 50% commission on their sales. Twenty five paintings were auctioned on stage by professional auctioneer Michelle Maitland, and an additional 80 pieces were offered in the silent auction. Students were involved at every stage of the event, from brainstorming their artistic ideas to promoting the auction and working on the night as waiters, auction spotters and presenters. This annual event showcases the tremendous artistic talent of our visual arts students and gives these up-and-coming young artists the opportunity to exhibit to the public and to gain some well-deserved recognition. Each year art department staff also produce artwork for the auction. This gives the students an opportunity to see that their teachers are also working artists. The proceeds from the auction will greatly assist with the growth of the school’s Visual Arts Department. The staff and students are very grateful for the strong support of our sponsors, local community and businesses.
Bids were made both to professional auctioneer Michelle Maitland (top centre) and in silent auction (above). Photos by Hoani Taylor, Year 12.
Student interns at Auckland Art Gallery Year 12 student Adeli Lim took part in a Youth Media Internship at Auckland Art Gallery with 14 other top art students from across Auckland. She helped make one of a series of short films that investigated questions about the gallery. Students had to work together to develop their questions, interview staff, shoot and edit their short films. The result was a series of professional and engaging short films which were shown at a special screening at the gallery on 31 August. Thanks to Ms Mulgrew and Ms Jones for organising and supporting their endeavors. Adeli’s film was called “What is the value of preserving art?” The other films made by students were called “What is the importance of viewing art in person?”, “How does the gender of an artist affect how we view artwork?”, and “What do children think and feel about art?” You can watch the films at www.youtube.com by searching for “Youth Media Internship”.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 15
Junior Bytes
The Junior Bytes concert, held on 13 August at Centennial Theatre at Auckland Grammar, presented the best of the junior school’s dance, drama and music in a variety concert. The programme opened with the Year 9 Dance Academy presenting Jungle Jam, a dance that was a choreographic collaboration between the students and their teachers. The students took on an animal motif to develop their group pieces. All 27 students participated with enthusiasm and this was a great start to the show. During the evening Year 9 and 10 drama students presented scenes from Shakespeare, including scenes from Othello, Macbeth and Hamlet. All actors gave polished performances.Year 10 dancers ranged from a boys’ class demonstrating their contemporary and Hip Hop skills, to a girls’ class presenting a jazz dance item. Year 10 extension dance performed a piece based on Kowhaiwhai patterns, and two year 9 students, Nicole Kearney and Oliver Mathiesen, won over the audience with their duet about a young ballet dancer and a hip hop dancer who tries to get her attention. Music and dance items for the junior section of MAGS Got Talent also showcased the wealth of talent among year 9 and 10 students. From budding songwriter/singers, such as the very promising Jenna Ackerman and Siosiua Atuekaho, through to some highly skilled jazz dancers - Brianna King and Jaimee Mclaughlan and Holly Grbich. Each performance was skilled, polished and entertaining. Judges Sarah Reid, Gareth Hodges and Albertian Jennece Morris chose three items to go to the final of MAGS Got Talent. Congratulations Jenna, Siosiua and Briana and Jaimee.
16
Arts Alive The Arts Alive concert presents the best of MAGS dance, drama and music for the year, as well as being the final opportunity for group assessment pieces, and the final of MAGS Got Talent. This was a stellar concert this year with some outstanding performances over all three arts disciplines.In music, we were entertained by the mixed choir Harmonise, our year 13 Jazz band and by both of the outstanding barbershop quartets, boys and girls (pictured). Drama presented scenes from Shakespeare’s Richard III and Macbeth,as well as a hilarious scene from Cow by NZ playwright Jo Randerson, in the absurdist theatre style. Year 13 student Daniel Nisbett also presented an excellent piece he created around the life and work of Charlie Chaplin. All levels of NCEA dance presented their ensemble performances for assessment. Year 11 students collaborated with their teacher on their performance while both year 12 and 13 students had dances created for them by guest choreographers. As well, Dance Scholarship student Brosnan Ackerman choreographed a beautiful duet, performed with Michael James, to a song sung by his sister and MAGS Got Talent finalist Jenna. The quality and variety of performances in the final of the MAGS got Talent was high and made the job for judges, Mr Hodges, Ms Reid, Mr Sinclair and Jennece Morris very difficult. However, eventually the winner was named as outstanding Year 11 dancer Lisa Mclaughlan, with second and third places going to two very promising young singers Maia Waetford and Siosiua Atuekaho.
Performing Arts
Lysistrata – an ancient story lives on
scripted short scenes to portray a family living there in the late 1800s. Each group chose the room they wanted to perform in and worked in relationship with the space. The dialogue of most pieces had a theme of the women’s suffrage and the country being on the cusp of allowing women the vote. Head of Drama Dr Lilicherie McGregor said MAGS was honoured to be included in Alberton’s anniversary celebrations.
MAGS’ musical talent recognised
An ancient comedy with themes still relevant today, Lysistrata by Aristophanes was brought to life in August by Year 12 Drama students in two performances in the FW Gamble Hall. The play, written in 412BC, tells of a fiery Athenian woman, Lysistrata, who declared a sex strike by women in an attempt to end a war. “Fast forward 2500 years and Aristophanes’ farce became a reality,” says Head of the Drama Department, Dr Lilicherie McGregor. “In Liberia in 2003 peace activist Leymah Gbowee led a women’s sex strike as part of a peace movement that helped bring an end to the Liberian Civil War. She was awarded the 2011 Nobel Peace Prize.” Lysistrata is now taught in secondary schools to encourage students to think about how they can use their skills and personal power to bring peace and live collaboratively. Dr McGregor said the students were privileged to work with musician Petia Vowel in creating an original score for the production.
Living History at Alberton
The MAGS Jazz Band was Highly Commended and musician Joshua Taylor chosen for a starring role at the annual KBB Music Festival from August 1923. Held at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell, the annual festival showcases the best in secondary school orchestras, concert bands and stage bands. This year saw more than130 groups take part from more than 50 schools across the greater Auckland region. MAGS Concert Band performed a festival piece, while the Jazz Band competed and was Highly Commended. The Jazz Band is instructed by teacher Mr Benjamin Sinclair, who is also a MAGS old boy (pictured above with the band). Year 12 student Joshua Taylor was selected to star with the best performers from all schools in the KBB Honours Orchestra, which performed on the final night. Joshua plays a range of instruments, and, on this occasion, was selected for his skill on the double bass.
More accolades for Jenna Ackerman
Year 11 Drama students had the opportunity to stage a live show in period costume at historic Alberton on 30 August. It was one of the house’s series of events to celebrate its 150th anniversary. The show was called Living History and saw the students perform a range of scenes in different parts of the house before an audience that moved with them. The students researched the history of Alberton and
Following her award as Most Promising Female Artist at the Auckland SmokeFree RockQuest earlier this year, Year 9 student Jenna Ackerman also won the New Found Sound band competition run by the YMCA on Friday, 30 August. She performed a selection of original songs and covers in a 20-minute set, competing against five other finalist bands from across Auckland. Jenna had also competed at the national finals of the Stand Up Stand Out competition the previous evening. She made the top eight in New Zealand - a huge achievement for such a young singer.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 17
International news This term we have had 118 International students, from China, Mongolia, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, India, Malaysia, Russia, New Caledonia, Iran, Chile, Italy, Germany and Switzerland, including more than 20 new students. We have had 16 boys living in School House.
Successful Albertian Hu Yi Ming (pictured second from left with banking colleagues) graduated from MAGS in 2004, gaining the school’s top grades in NCEA Level 3 and in Scholarship. He went on to Melbourne University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree with First Class Honours. He also holds qualifications as a Chartered Practising Accountant (CPA) and a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Since graduating, he has worked for the Reserve Bank of Australia, where he was recently promoted to work at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission as an analyst monitoring the ASX24 derivatives market. Yi Ming is a very successful young man and an outstanding Albertian.
International sports news Rugby This year two Japanese boys have followed in the footsteps of recent MAGS international rugby players, Axel (UK), Axl (Argentina) and Thibault (France). Kiichi was with us for the first half of the year and played for the 2nd XV, also being a Above: Takato, and below, member of our Year 10 Rugby Kiichi. Academy. Kiichi is a very good rugby player and impressed the school coaching team. Takato was with us for the first 3 weeks of Term 3, and was a member of our Year 9 Rugby Academy. He played for a junior rugby team. The boys lived with the family of one of the school’s teachers, also a keen sportsman. Both boys were taken to rugby games at the local Eden Park, venue of the 2011 Rugby World Cup final held in Auckland, and they thoroughly enjoyed the experience of being in a leading rugby school. Kiichi and Takato have benefited hugely from their time at MAGS and have gained many new rugby skills. Football Christina is from Germany and a fine football player who was a member of our school’s 2nd XI, which won the Auckland Senior A championship.
18
Basketball Our international sports tournaments generate great team spirit and enthusiasm. The 2013 basketball tournament was very successful with a great game for 3rd and 4th, eventually won by Korea over Thailand, 13-12. The final was a one-sided affair with “China A” winning by 40 points (the team was William, Yuoming, James, Tony and Gong Lin). Football tournament Japan decisively won this exciting tournament, beating the United Nations team in the final.
Visits to the school Japanese ‘Coop’ Tour Group
In week 2 of the term we hosted a group of 10 high school children from Japan, five boys and five girls. The children had nine hours of dedicated English instruction from an English teacher. They also enjoyed being buddied with our students for the rest of their time with us. On their first day they had a traditional Maori welcome (Powhiri) performed by our Maori students in our school hall. They also spent a day in Rotorua, the famous New Zealand town with geysers, bubbling mud and hot pools. On their last day they had a farewell function in the Hall and all students were presented with certificates. The group presented Mr Burden and Mr Gray with gifts. Our visitors, a lively group of young students, will have wonderful memories of their trip and of their time with us at the school. Japanese ‘Tohoku’ Tour Group
This visit by a group of 10 children from the tsunamidevastated region of Japan took place over 2 weeks and was funded by Air New Zealand, Auckland City and MAGS. Students spent six days with buddies at MAGS. The children really enjoyed being buddied with our students. On their first day they had a traditional Maori
International
welcome performed by our Maori students in our school hall, and on their last day they had a farewell function, also in the hall, where all students, visitors and locals were presented with certificates. The visiting children came onto the stage and spoke, very movingly, of their experiences of the great earthquake and the tsunami that followed. The tour chaperone, Tomoko, did a good job of looking after the children and she took many photographs and made a video record of the visit. We also presented Tomoko with a certificate in recognition of her sterling efforts with the group. Tomoko and the children produced a lovely hand-made thank-you card for the school and gave us a customised NZEDU T-shirt – both occupy pride of place in our International Student Centre. One student’s mother sent us a superb book containing a moving pictorial record of the tsunami. I am sure the children will have wonderful memories of their trip and of their time with us in the school. The organiser Mia Evans is to be congratulated for her efforts in placing this group at MAGS again. Tahitian swim group In the final two weeks of Term 2 we hosted a group of five Tahitian students, in Auckland for swim training at the Paul Kent Swimming School. They spent some time in our International English Language class, in a separate English language programme and going to mainstream classes with local buddies.
Quiz Night Congratulations to the teams which competed in this inaugural Quiz Night at St Mary’s College in Ponsonby. Teams from the host school and Auckland Grammar also took part. Our team of Nayuta, Kento, Hiro and Christine took second place while our team of Wanli, Aaron, Nancy and Vicky took third place.
Museum visit In August our International English class spent an interesting day at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, along with teachers Mr Cole and Mrs Hutchins. They had a private tour guide and saw a Maori concert.
students in mainstream classes. This programme allows students to see what the rest of the school does so they know what to expect when they move to mainstream.
School Ball
Held on the last day of Term 2, the school ball was a huge success. A group of our students attended and had a wonderful time.
Outdoor Education Two of our senior Thai boys are taking this subject, Krit (pictured left) and Kabe. The year 12 students went on the recent three-day tramp through the Waitakere Ranges and really enjoyed it. Kabe said “Outdoor Education has been a good challenge and experience for me. I have had to be fit and positive. I have learned some useful leadership skills!”
Homestays required We welcome applications from caring families within easy travel distance of the school to provide short-term or longer-term homestays for our international boys and girls. If you have a spare bedroom and are interested, please contact Mrs Corinne Brewer, Homestay Co-ordinator, ph 846 2044 extension 8187, email: cbrewer@mags.school.nz
Mainstream Day One of our regular events offers a chance for students in our intensive English class to spend a day buddied with
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 19
School Ball 2013 - “Casino Royale” The annual Mount Albert Grammar School Ball for 2013 was held at The Hotel Pullman in Auckland City. This year’s theme was “Casino Royale”. The ball committee worked tirelessly to prepare for the evening and decorate the venue. Attendees walked down a red carpeted hallway, through the archway and into the magnificent ballroom full of high end-casino decorations. A highlight of the social side of the evening was the three photo booths and live Facebook feeds that were viewed by over 1000 people as the ball continued through the night. This meant that family and friends could view the photos as the evening progressed. The photographers were very complimentary of the MAGS students, in particular their friendly and polite manner. D.J Kieran provided an outstanding music and lighting show and the dance floor was packed all night - four hours of solid dancing and no doubt some very sore feet. The students who ran the proceedings on the night organised great themed prizes and their detailed preparations ensured the evening ran smoothly. My thanks go out to all of the ball committee, led by Bala Murali Shingade and SaneVa Ginnen, and the parents who gave up their time to help. The students’ behaviour was exemplary and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves. “The best Ball ever”. Natasha Phyn
20
Sport
National and Auckland Champions Mount Albert Grammar School had great success in the winter sporting season - our premier girls’ football and lacrosse teams won national titles, our top netball team won the Auckland and Upper North Island competitions with the national finals to come, and our First XI boys’ football team reclaimed the coveted Beswick Trophy in the Auckland league for the 38th time. The following teams all won their divisions in the Auckland competitions. Sports Teams which won their divisions Badminton Open C Basketball Girls U17 Gold and the U15 Gold Football Boys First XI, 15B and 13B Football Girls First XI, Second XI and Junior A Lacrosse Girls Premier Girls, Auckland Division 1 and the AKSS Championship Netball AKSS titles for Premier Girls, Senior A, Senior Blue and Senior 5, Intermediate 1, 3 and 4, Junior 1 and 4 Squash Premier Boys’ Division 1 Junior Girls’ 1 Underwater hockey Junior Open
Left: Jade Parris celebrates her winning goal at the National Girls’ Football Championships with team-mates Amelia Hawkins, Leah Mettam and Madeleine Cooper. Photo: Phillip Rollo. Above: The Premier Girls’ Lacrosse team with their national championship trophy and winners’ medals. Clockwise from far left: The First XI boys’ football team with the Beswick Shield for winning the Auckland league, the Premier netball team with the Upper North Island Championship trophy, the Premier Boys’ Squash team and the Basketball Girls’U17 Gold team.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 21
Sport
Sports Round-up Badminton Eleven teams were entered into various grades, which included both new and experienced players. Our Premier Badminton team under the leadership of Vivian Washington and Taylor Marston improved their performance every week. They played some closely fought games. The C Grade Teams (pictured) played particularly well this season resulting in the C1 Open Boys winning their grade and the C2 Open Boys and C Girls teams both finishing in third place. The C1 team has been a cohesive, committed and enthusiastic team and they thoroughly deserved their AKSS title.
Basketball – Boys The U15 Boys Basketball Team went undefeated in pool play of the Central Zone competition with six wins. This qualified them for the finals where they had one win and one loss to finish second overall in the Central zone. This qualified them for the Greater Auckland Basketball Tournament where they finished with one win and two losses and unfortunately missed out on advancing to the semi-finals. The U17 boys finished the Central Zone pool play with a three win, four loss record overall. Three of the four losses were between 1-8 points. As the season went on this team continued to improve and grew stronger as a group. In the playoff for the plate the U17s won all three of their games with a total of over 80 points differential over their opposition. In the Central Zone Open Grade the senior boys finished the regular season with seven wins and one loss. The one loss was to St Peter’s after leading the whole game until the last 30 seconds. This record qualified the team for the one off final vs Dilworth. This was a very exciting game with the MAGS supporters challenging the Dilworth home crowd in who could make the most noise in support for their team. The lead changed several times during the game with MAGS taking the lead with a go ahead three from Delaney Chaney-Puata with only a few seconds left. Dilworth managed to make a play in the final stages to snatch the lead back, resulting in a close loss.
22
Basketball – Girls After a slow start losing four of the eight games in the first premier round, the girls started to find their feet in the dying stages of the Premier League. After a surprise loss to Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, the girls pulled up their socks and went into the second half of the Premier League with new-found determination. Losses came again to Westlake Girls’ High School and Rangitoto College but the difference was in the margin – less than 10 points compared to more than 30 point losses in the first half of the season. The second game against Massey High School was another heart-stoppingmatch with Massey again being the victors by one point. All in all the season was a bumpy one but it is pleasing to see that our wonderful girls kept themselves in the Premier League for another year, and learned more about being a team and having more self belief and confidence in themselves and their teammates. So we stayed in the top four of the Premier League and were placed third, with the girls all looking forward to the up and coming National qualifiers.
Canoe Polo We have both juniors and the seniors in the Auckland Schools’ Canoe Polo Championship. At the time of writing the competition is not over but the juniors are probably in line for a podium finish, while the seniors’ remain yet again unbeaten. Mt Albert Grammar has won this championship for the last three years under the expert guidance of Mr Andrew Candy, who has brought his considerable skills and talent to create another potentially championship winning team. During the year the senior team has played for Auckland Canoe Polo Club, where they gained extra training and experience competing against all age groups. With ACP, the seniors’ have won the C Grade championship of the New Zealand Canoe Polo Association.
Cheerleading Our team of nine cheerleading girls took to the floor in style for the Schools’ Spectacular on 18 August at the ASB Stadium in Kohimaramara. They performed well in the Level 1-2 section and finished a very creditable third place. The team then rocked the stage at the Spring Carnival competition on 15 September at the same venue. They looked great and the team had been working really hard on their routine since losing some members. Unfortunately they were deducted a point as their school chant took longer than 30 seconds. They finished in fifth place, which the girls were disappointed with as they were aiming for a medal spot. We’re sure they will come back stronger from this at the Cheer ‘n’ Dance competition in November.
Sport
Cycling Term three began with an event that took place right at the end of term two. The North Island Secondary School Team Championships, which were held in a chilly Cambridge over the weekend of 13-14 July. We did not have enough riders to enter a team for the time trial but nine riders entered the various age group road races on Sunday. We had our fair share of “what might have beens” as Guy Hirst and Logan Crook both had punctures when they were well placed in the leading bunches of their respective races. Thomas Gant and Finn WelsfordAkroyd crossed the line together in the Under 16 race. Jeremy King completed his first ever road race in a creditable 53rd place in the under 15s. Isobel WelsfordAkroyd, also competing in her first ever road race, was the standout performer crossing in 18th place and not far off the leading bunch in the under 14s race. Kirsty Wilson and Alex Thompson also rode well in their races. Our team time trialling was characterised by “near misses”. In race 4 at the end of term 2, all three teams posted season best times. But race 5 saw Guy Hirst suffer a mechanical failure minutes before the start. The other three riders completed the event but their season best of 25:50:00 had to remain unofficial, as four riders are needed to record a time. Meanwhile, on a more positive note, the junior boys and the girls both carved several seconds of their best times of the year. Race 6 was also a near wash out as one of the senior boys crashed and the girls only had three riders and so again didn’t record a time. At the time of writing we were looking forward to completing this series with three official and best times on 15 September. Thanks to our brilliant parent supporters and especially the coaching offered by Neil Welsford and manager Richard Watkinson
Distance Running Lydiard Challenge Cup Mount Albert Grammar had 17 athletes enter the Arthur Lydiard Challenge Cup, held on 14 September. All athletes ran in the 10km category. Stand out performances were achieved in both the boys’ and girls’ races. In the boys race MAGS achieved four of the top five placing’s. Sean Donald (pictured) won gold, James Stacey came second, Andrew Battley fourth and Milan Bonkovich fifth. In the girls’ event MAGS achieved all of the top five results. Rebekah Van Dort was first, followed by Elizabeth Lyon, Nicole Lawrence, Emma Donald and
Sophie Cooper. The teams awards will be presented later in the month. The team consisted of Andrew Battley, Milan Bonkovich, Sophie Cooper, Thomas Coupe, Emma Donald, Sean Donald, David Kim, Nicole Lawrence, Flynn Letford, Elizabeth Lyon, Lewis MacKinnon, Ghan Satjipanon, Erik Scharting, Timothy Sinclair, James Stacey, Rebekah Van Dort and Scott Cole.
The boys’ Lydiard Challenge team after their race, from left, Milan Bonkovich, Andrew Battley, Tim Sinclair, Flynn Letford, Scott Cole, David Kim (obscured), Sean Donald, Lewis MacKinnon and James Stacey.
MAGS Xterra Team The MAGS Distance Squad finished off a very impressive Xterra winter trail series with a collection of individual and team awards. The last three of the six races of the competition saw the team race the regional parks of Woodhill, Waharau and the Hunua Ranges. Waharau, the newest race of the series, was the most extreme in terms of hills and technical running and this event saw James Stacey running almost a half-marathon off-road with nearly 1000m of vertical climb in the long course. The overall results for the series produced three first places to James Stacey, Sean Donald and Nicole Kearney in their U20 categories. Most of the MAGS runners would have placed in the top 10 in the Open category. Finally, the team achieved the fantastic result of being placed third in the overall teams’ competition, competing against adult teams. These outstanding performances are a credit to hard work put in by a talented group of young runners. Results Sean Donald Andrew Battley Matthew Brenan Nicole Kearney Elizabeth Lyon Sophie Cooper James Stacey MAGS Distance
1st 2nd 3rd 1st 2nd 3rd 1st 3rd
U20 Short Course U20 Short Course U20 Short Course U20 Short Course U20 Short Course U20 Mid Course U20 Long Course Teams Competition
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 23
Sport
Fencing Following an introductory video shown at a junior assembly, there has been an overwhelming response by more than 80 junior students indicating an interest in fencing, a new sports initiative at MAGS. As a result we have arranged Mr Kyle MacDonald to come in and offer two fencing taster sessions, one before and one after school, to nine groups of students. Those who are interested can continue with the new squad in Term 4.
Football – Boys It was another massive year of football action at MAGS with 13 teams and close to 200 boys involved across all grades. The First XI Monty Patterson in full flight. boys’ football team, having already won the Auckland Premier League on points the week prior, wrapped up the competition with a 3-1 over Westlake Boys’ High School. This is the 38th time MAGS has won the Beswick Shield since it was first presented in 1927. Scott Doney scored in the first half and converted a penalty to bring up his 22nd goal of the season. MAGS’ other point was an own-goal. In a cliff-hanger Auckland Knockout cup semi-final MAGS staged a wonderful second half comeback to beat Glendowie College 3-2. MAGS went into the break trailing 2-0, playing second fiddle to the newly promoted Glendowie College. The division one champions came to Alberton Avenue Cameron Hogg saving one of many full of confidence after having the most goals through the season. successful season in the school’s history, forcing the MAGS team to dig deep and win this tight encounter. The end of the 2013 season was a mixed bag for all members and staff of the First XI football team. On their return to Auckland, following the NZSS Premier Tournament, the team was in the final of the Auckland Knock Out Cup. The game was staged at Bill McKinlay Park in Panmure. Minus the injured Monty Patterson MAGS disappointingly lost the final to Westlake Boys’
24
High School 3-0. It appeared that the efforts from an arduous but successful league campaign had drained a lot of energy from a young team that had played some fine, flowing football, during the season. It was a year of almosts and what might have beens for the other top sides, with the Second XI, 15A and 13A all coming second in their respective leagues and the 14A coming third. The standard of football was very competitive across all these grades and while some teams will be disappointed with second, others have overachieved. In other results of note both the 15B and 13B won their respective B grades and the Fourth XI took out the central C division in a tense playoff shootout. Thanks goes to the many parents who volunteered their time to coach or manage a team. Football wouldn’t exist at MAGS without your help.
Football – Girls The First XI team’s win of the National Championship in Nelson during Tournament Week was the highlight of a successful season for the girls’ programme, in which MAGS was well-represented across all grades. The First XI Girls’ football team lost their captain of last season along with two other Senior Year 13 team members, but welcomed a new captain - Parehuia MacKay, the inclusion of Bella Kingi and Alosi Bloomfield, Nicole Mettam and Grace Jale - three year nine players included in the squad this year. The first game of the league was against Massey High School . We lost to Massey High last year 1-0 and this game was for the most part an opportunity to correct that result. We did this with a 9-0 win, playing some quality football and scoring some well constructed goals. This set the platform for what became a very successful season. The Greater Auckland League became a three team race with Mount Albert Grammar, Rangitoto College and Epsom Girls’ Grammar all vying for the top spot. Mt Albert continued to stay on top of the ladder with some convincing wins and importantly a better goal difference. The first real test came when we played Rangitoto at home. It was a close-fought game, which we dominated for the most part, however with little more than three minutes to go we gave away a corner, which resulted in a goal to Rangitoto. Final score Rangitoto 1 Mount Albert 0. The following week , a win against Epsom Girls’ Grammar would put us on top of the league again. It was another hard-fought game against a quality team. Jacqui Hand scored the only goal of the match from a free kick, returning us to the top of the league. To defend our 2012 title we needed to win all the remaining four games of the season, and went on to achieve that, winning the Greater Auckland League. Out of 11 games we won 10 and lost only 1. We scored an amazing 63 goals for and had only one goal scored against us. A truly remarkable season! The APC Knock Out Cup is a great trophy to be involved in. Cup football is exciting and dramatic. It also allows
Sport
additional competitive games to be played. Having earned the right to a bye in the first round as winners of the Auckland Secondary School Girl league there were two games to win to make the final. Our first game was against Takapuna Grammar who we had previously beaten 5-0 in the league game. We beat them this time 3-0, and headed to the semifinal against Pukekohe High school missing four of our players who were touring with the NZ U/17 squad (Deven Jackson, Bella Kingi, Millie Hawkins and Jade Parris). A reshuffled MAGS team took the field against Pukekohe on what only can be described as a boggy pitch. We welcomed Milly Goddard, Anita Killip and Isobel Douglas to the team. Mount Albert defended bravely and held on for a 2-1 win. The final was a repeat of last year’s final against Rangitoto College and was played in torrential rain at Michaels Ave Park, Ellerslie. Both sides had opportunities early in the game but failed to convert. Rangitoto looked strong from set pieces. Late in the game Rangitoto scored from a corner after the ball was parried away by goalie Riva Fuimaono. Although there was little between the two sides Rangitoto prevailed and won the APC final 1-0. The girls were disappointed they didn’t manage to defend their title of last season but were heartened by the fact they had already secured the Greater Auckland League title. The Second XI girls had an excellent season under the coaching of Mr Brent Booker. They didn’t lose a game and took out the Senior A competition in a final against Epsom Girls’ Grammar. The Third XI and Fourth XI, managed by Ms Majolin Tutt and Ms Sarnia Slabbert, had an enjoyable season in the social Senior B grade. The The Second XI Girls’ Football team, pictured Fourth XI pipped with coach Mr Brent Booker, were unbeaten their sister all season and won the Auckland Senior A team in the competition. final game with them securing third spot and the Thirds finishing fourth. Thanks to students Farhan Rahman who did a great job in coaching the Third XI girls and to Rueben Morris who refereed many of their games. The Junior A were managed by Mr Ian Cole and coached by Mr Eddie Kennedy who had coached them to a win last year. This year the team had to dig deep with the team being hard hit through injury and players being called up for First XI duties. The girls showed tremendous spirit and won the season on goal difference. Unfortunately, the lack of substitutes caught up with them and they didn’t make it to the APC final, but they fought hard and played with
great pride. The Premier Junior grade is very competitive and it proves that MAGS and girls football in general is in good shape. Showing the depth the school has in girls’ football, we were given leave to enter our Junior B team into the Premier Division 2. This group was coached and managed by teachers, Mr Matthew Huang and managed by Ms Margaret Sutton. The girls started tentatively as they got used to the improved competition, however they gained confidence and finished a very creditable fourth, which put them into the top group for the APC where they were unlucky not to finish higher than fifth.Our Junior C team, admirably managed by teacher Mrs Jane Uys, played in the Central Junior B grade and had a fun, and often muddy season to win the bowl. Girls’ football is the school’s largest mid-week sport with nearly 100 girls playing every Wednesday afternoon. Thanks to Chris Olsen at Kiwishuttles, who with his staff did an admirable job in getting the girls to and from their games safely and on time every week.
The depth of talent in MAGS girls’ football was demonstrated by teams like the Junior A winning their competition on goal difference.
Gymsports Four MAGS students competed at the NZSS Gymsports Championships in August. Each achieved at a high level. Ruth Lever 3rd place International Grade – Rhythmic Gymnastics Kate Nicholson 4th place in Elite Grade - Trampolining Meghan Cotton 5th place in A Grade - Trampolining Sophie Cooper 2nd place in 6th Grade – Artistic Gymnastics Ruth Lever has qualified to represent Auckland at the national championships in Napier in October. Kate Nicholson competed for NZ in Australia, winning silver in the synchronised trampolining and coming 10th out of 28.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 25
Sport
Hockey – Boys
Terry Gada (left), Shae Iswar, Jeremy Barnett and Fraser Campbell close in on a player from Sacred Heart College.
The 2013 squad was very young, including seven Year 10 players in the 15-man squad. This year saw the introduction of the new Top 8 Supercity competition – the MAGS team gained entry and they played 13 games in the double round robin and finished in sixth place. The second round results showed an improvement in skill and results, with the best effort coming in the game against Auckland Grammar where the team drew 2-2 and were just three minutes away from winning the game. The team won three, lost eight and drew two games with one game being abandoned due to the turf flooding and the umpires deeming it unplayable and dangerous. Congratulations to Shae Iswar who has been selected for the Auckland Hockey U15 Premier Boys’ representative team. Shae will be playing at the National U15 tournament, which is being held at Lloyd Elsmore Park, Pakuranga during the upcoming holidays. The Second XI was a talented team, which performed well when they were all available to play. They were easily the third best team and with a little luck could have finished second. They struggled with other schools’ First XI teams and couldn’t quite win the games that mattered most at the business end of the season. In qualifying for the A Grade the U15 team showed they were a top team. The wins were hard fought and the boys showed a lot of determination against teams with standout players but not the teamwork and passing skills of the MAGS team. The team improved as the season progressed and this was most evident in the last game where we beat Sancta Maria College 6-2 to finish third equal.
26
Hockey - Girls In 2013 MAGS played in the inaugural Auckland Supercity competition. The season got off to a miserable start with star player and captain Hannah Ward, and key striker Shae Miller out for the season with serious knee injuries. MAGS played with pride and passion all season, punching well above their weight, but a depleted squad with 3 debutants was always going to struggle in a competition of this quality. They ended the regular season with a 2 win, 6 loss record, having 20 goals scored against them and scoring seven. The Supercity plate competition pitted the bottom four teams against each other. The play-off for sixth place in the plate final against Baradene College was a nail-biting affair, with normal time ending in a 0-0 stalemate and then MAGS taking out the overtime penalty strokes 4-3. Congratulations to Hannah Elia who was selected in Auckland U18 Premier Girls’ hockey representative team. Hannah’s team won the National U18 Premier Girls’ tournament held in Hamilton during the July holidays. The girls’ hockey Under 15 1 team was composed of year nine students with a mix of experienced and new players. Though some of the girls lacked knowledge of the game, they went out with positive attitudes. The team played in the Central grade, which was very challenging, but their commitment and effort shone through until the last minute of every game. The girls’ skills improved steadily throughout the season and they managed to muster up a win. In this Under 15 team, everyone improved, not only as players but also as a team. After winning the Open C West competition last year the Second XI team attempted the challenging B grade. The team had a rough start to the season which resulted in losses, but this did not reflect the hard work and effort put into their game. Each narrow loss was a learning experience for the girls and it fed their hunger for a win. Falling short, the team was moved down a grade, but the girls’ became more driven to succeed. From the luck of the draw, the first two teams that the girls played were at the top of the table. This was a challenging start; the girls won one of the two games, but continued with confidence and ended the season with five wins and one loss. The girls started and ended the season with pride coming runners-up in the West C grade competition. This team has been together for the past two years and we have farewelled six valued Year 13 members.
Karate Congratulations to Year 9 student Casey Murphy who won a silver medal in the Kyu Male Junior Kata section of the recent World Cup Karate Champs held at Homebush Stadium in Sydney.
Sport
Lacrosse – Boys The boys’ lacrosse season only started at the beginning of term three and since then the team has had mixed results, which meant they missed out on qualifying for the Premier competition in the second round. They are now faced with lots of travelling to play Orewa College and Whangaparaoa College before their final game this term against Mt Roskill Grammar School at Owairaka Domain.
Lacrosse – Girls What an outstanding year for Girls’ Lacrosse at MAGS! Our Premier team are Auckland and National champions, and with the number of teams doubling from two to four this season we look set to continue our success. The Auckland A Competition Cup final was a hardfought game against Diocesan on their home turf. It was not the ideal start for the Briar Tippett in the National final MAGS team who was against Cambridge High School. down early by two goals, but clawed their way back to be 2-2 at half time. They gained control of the game and pulled ahead to win the second half comfortably 5-1, with the final score a convincing win 7-3 to retain the Auckland Secondary School Premier Girls’ Lacrosse Championship for the second year in a row. The team welcomed back NZBLAX team members, their captain Amelia Scharting and Briar Tippett from a trip to the World Championships in Oshawa.
Lawn Bowls Congratulations to Year 9 student, Terrence King who has been selected in the AKSS Lawn Bowls team to compete in the regional tournament at the end of September in Whangarei.
Netball 2013 has so far been the most successful season MAGS netball has ever had, surpassing the highly successful season last year, and we still have the National Championship to come in the October school holidays. Our Premier team won the Upper North Island competition during Tournament Week, and in the
The Premier team with coaches Paula Smith and TeAroha Keenan and their Auckland Secondary Schools trophy
Auckland competition we were awarded nine titles and three runner-up trophies as well as the Carole Craighead Champion of Champions Trophy for the best overall results throughout all grades for another consecutive year. Teams who won their grade included the Premier, Senior A, Senior 5, Senior Blue, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 3, Intermediate 4, Junior 1 and the Junior 4. Runners-up included Senior 2, Intermediate 5 and Junior 2. There were many highlights during the season; in particular the performance of our junior teams continues to be impressive. For the second consecutive year our Junior 2 have not only retained their position in the top grade but have finished runners up behind the Junior 1. The Junior 3 have also had a great season, working their way into the JNR B Grade and playing games against A and B teams. The intermediates and senior teams were stronger this season with many teams moving into higher grades and building on their performances from last year. As with every year, regardless of the teams results, it is important to thank all the students, teachers and parents who have made this season possible by giving up their time to coach, manage, umpire or support our MAGS netballers week in and week out. Bring on another successful netball season in 2014! North Harbour and Combined Points Tournaments MAGS have participated in the North Harbour and Combined Points tournaments for many years and have a very successful history with both. This season was no exception with all determined to win for the seventh consecutive year. Four teams were entered in the North Harbour tournament (Premier, Senior A, Year 10A, Year 9A) in June where MAGS achieved three titles and a runners-up award for the Year 10A. In August, the Premier, Year 10A and Year 9A competed at the Combined Points Tournament, where all three teams were unchallenged throughout the day, convincingly winning all grades and the overall trophy.
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 27
Sport
Rowing Four members of MAGSROW’s senior squad were selected for the Auckland region’s Light Blue Squad to compete at the Queensland State Schools Regatta at the end of term 3. They were Sam Perry, Todd Martin, Evander Tangiiti and Jonathan Winter. To have half the representative eight filled with MAGS students is a huge achievement and a credit to the MAGSROW coaching team, led by Mr Will Maling. The Light Blue Squad comprises 28 boys selected from 12 Auckland schools to train through winter at different clubs. It was from this squad that the eight were chosen to travel to Bucca Weir in Bundaberg to compete at the Queensland competition. The MAGS rowers won two silver and two bronze medals. MAGSROW is now well into training for the 2013-2014 season, recruiting novices and preparing for our first day regatta at Lake Pupuke on October 26.
Rugby MAGS fielded nine rugby teams in 2013: First XV, 2nd XV, Under 15s , Under 14 Blue , Under 14 Gold, 4th Grade (under 76kgs) , 5th Grade (under 68 kgs) , 6th grade (under 60kgs) and 7th grade (under 52kgs). The First XV rugby team played 16 games this year for a season record of won 13, drew 1, lost 2.The highlight of the season is the selection of Captain Joshua Goodhue (pictured) into the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ Rugby Team to play both Australia and Fiji in Sydney. The First XV team finished in second place in the round robin competition and lost the home semi final game against Auckland Grammar. Blake Hohaia and Leif Schwencke gained selection in the Blues Secondary Schools’ team that defeated the Chiefs Schools’. Highlights of the season included a hard fought 9–9 draw with World and National Champions St Kentigern College, followed up by good wins over Sacred Heart College 24–0, Auckland Grammar 9–6, King’s College 13–10, Kelston Boys’ 18– 6 and St Peter’s College 10–9. Good pre-season results were wins over Wesley College 29–7 and St Peter’s School, Cambridge 37–3. Blake Hohaia scored 10 tries from fullback and George Edwards’ goal kicking was the best in the competition. George was asked to kick some pressure goals this season and was successful on every occasion. The Second XV rugby team coached by Mr Dewes and former All Black Brad Mika finished fifth in the 2A
28
competition. This team operated close to the First XV and did a first class job in producing players for the next level, as a large number of players from this team will step up to First XV next season. Highlight of the season was a win over Sacred Heart College who went on to win the 2A championship. It was decided this year to field two rugby teams in the under 14A competition. The Under 14 Blue rugby team coached by Mr Richie Folomu and assisted by two parents, Mr Dave Young and Mr John Tetini, set the pace in the under 14 competition, playing some outstanding rugby at times. In the semi-finals they were beaten by Kelston Boys’ High School at home in what was an upset. The Under 14 Gold Team coached by Mr Tony Sprangers and assisted by parent Mr Fred Milo, improved as the season progressed; the win over Auckland Grammar School 22–21 was the highlight of the season. The fourth grade rugby team was coached by grandfather and West Auckland rugby legend Mr Dick Mickleborough. This year the competition was opened up so the A and B grade became one competition. The fourth grade team remained competitive all year and improved as the season progressed. When this team fronted for training the Saturday performance would always lift. A big win over King’s College in the last game was a positive way to finish the season. The fifth grade rugby team coached by two parents, Mr Ron Murray and Mr Ray Brewer, were a credit to the school. This team had big injury issues and at times would be stretched for players, however they just got on with the job and were competitive in every game they played. Some really good results were achieved in the tough 5A competition. The sixth grade team, coached by parent Grant Howlett and assisted by Mr Kingsley Adams, reached the semifinals before going down 17-22 to Sacred Heart College, to a team coached by Sir John Kirwan and Ric Salizzo. After coming back from a big deficit at half time this team played with both heart and determination. The boys made big improvements this season and the coaching staff need to be congratulated. The seventh grade Soldiers Rugby team coached by school groundsman Mr Carlton Lees-Thomas and assisted by parent Mr Jerry Mellon had an outstanding season, making the grand final and dropping only two games in the season. Solomon Dowd was the standout player in what was a really good team effort. As the only MAGS team that made Grand Finals day, the seventh grade team and coaching staff need to be both recognised and congratulated.
Rugby League Though the season was relatively short, the team enjoyed every moment as they endured some tough competition with players learning and improving from those games.
Sport
For some players the exposure of individual brilliance and positive team dynamics helped nurture them in improving ball skills and enjoying the game more. 2013 saw the introduction of the first College Rugby League competition, or CRL, in conjunction with Auckland Rugby League and Vodafone Warriors. The squad carried 33 players at the beginning of the year. The team played seven games in Round 1, winning four of them. Round 2 saw MAGS make the top six, winning games against Otahuhu College and St Paul’s College but losing to Kelston Boys’ High School in a close encounter. The team met St Paul’s College in the semi-final and lost 22-34 in a tight encounter. Overall it was a good season achieving two major goals. The first, being the only school in the competition to win a game against St Paul’s College, and the second, qualifying for the National Tournament to be held in September.
Squash The Premier Boys and Junior B1 Girls teams both came first in their divisions, and the Junior B2 Girls and Premier Girls’ teams were both runners-up, wrapping up a very successful season for MAGS. The Senior A Boys saw a significant change in the quality of squash played during the season, and were committed and positive representatives of the school. The Senior B Boys’ team of five achieved good results in the initial rounds, winning a slim majority of their draws. In the championship round of games they won all of their draws and were well placed in the overall competition. The Junior A Boys had an up and down season. They and the Junior B boys are hoping for a more settled competition next year. The Senior Girls B team, consisting of players relatively new to the sport, was well organised and learned about teamwork.
Table Tennis
From left: Manager Api Taulapiu, Reuben Porter, Mattais Heimuli, captain Nathaniel Roache, Sitili Tupouniua and coach Steve Price at the Auckland Secondary Schools Rugby League Awards.
On 1 August the Secondary Schools’ Rugby League breakfast and prizegiving was held at Alexandra Park. Mount Albert Grammar School, in only their second season following a long absence from secondary school rugby league, were rewarded for their achievements by receiving the prestigious award of Auckland Secondary Rugby League School of Excellence. Four players were also presented with the following awards: Mattais Heimuli (Vice-captain): AKSS Rugby League Player of the Year Nathaniel Roache (Captain) and Mattais Heimuli: AKSS Rugby League Team of the Year Mattais Heimuli, Rueben Porter and Sitili Tupounuia: Awarded Warrior Scholarships for its three-week Development Programme for 2014.
Snowsports A ski team and a snowboard team have been entered into the NISS Ski Championships and NISS Snowboarding Championships being held at Turoa on Mt Ruapehu.
Four teams entered the winter competition held in term two and two teams have continued in the spring competition in term three. The teams are a mix of experienced and social players who have enjoyed their Friday night competition. Congratulations to Year 10 student, Guiting (Lucy) Lu (pictured) who recently competed in the Cathay Pacific Auckland Open Table Tennis Championships. Her results were very impressive. She won the 2013 Cathay Pacific Auckland Open Under 18 Girls’ Singles and was runner-up in the Under 15 Girls’ Singles.
Touch Congratulations to the following six students who have recently returned from Brisbane where they represented New Zealand in the following age group Touch teams: Under 15 Girls’: Jacqueline Hand, Victoria Pone and Caitlin Pritchard Under 15 Boys’: Paul Roache and Henry Tetini Under 17 Girls’: Sade Rihari
Underwater Hockey The Auckland underwater hockey season finished on a high, with MAGS winning Auckland School of the Year. The Junior Boys team won the Auckland title, winning the final 4-1 over Mahurangi College. The Senior Boys were runner up to Avondale with a score of 0-5. The Junior Girls had their best season to date, winning silver after a 1-3 final against Diocesan, and the Senior Girls came a commendable fourth after a 1-5 semi-final against Howick College. Jamie Rutledge won the Auckland
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 29
Sport
Junior Sportsmanship trophy. To top off the term, Danyon Kemp, a student at MAGS until last year and now coach of the Premier Girls team, won a gold medal at the U23 Underwater Hockey World Championships in August. The squad is now anticipating the national tournament to be played during the October holidays.
Wrestling Matthew Downes competed at the New Zealand Olympic Wrestling Union National Championships in Dunedin recently. Matthew came first in the 16yrs and under 58kg freestyle wrestling category and is New Zealand Champion for 2013 in that category. Matthew also placed second in the 20yrs and under 60kg Greco Roman category. The tri-nations DownUnders Tournament between New Zealand, USA and Australian teams was held in Auckland in early July and was a huge success for NZSS Wrestling as an event. The tournament is held primarily as a dual meet where teams compete against each other and the individual match scores are attributed to the team. There were nearly 100 American wrestlers that made up three separate teams and dominated the tournament. The New Zealand Wrestling team that Matthew was part of placed after the American teams and ahead of the Australian team. Having so many good American wrestlers to compete against was a valuable experience for those in the New Zealand Wrestling team.
Winter Sports Tournament Week NZSS Junior Boys’ Basketball Tournament – Rotorua After an absence in 2012, MAGS were able to bond a quality team to compete at this tournament. Our key objectives were twofold. Firstly to develop a player pool of depth, so players could compete for senior premier positions within the next two years, and secondly to finish in the top two positions within our grade. Due to circumstances outside our control, we found ourselves playing within the ‘A Grade.’ The first two days of the tournament were blow out wins. On day one we beat Cambridge High School 91-21,
30
The Junior Boys’ Basketball came second in the national final, by one point, to One Tree Hill College.
and St Peter’s School, Cambridge, 102-21. On day two we won against Trident High School 91-51, and Paeroa High School 94-34. However, day three saw a change in quality of teams, and Huanui College provided a much sterner test, with MAGS prevailing 64-53. The win qualified us first in our pool, and a semi-final was played against Whangaparaoa College. The opposition came out very hard at the beginning, but we were able to weather the storm and qualified for the final with a 78-49 win. The final was played against One Tree Hill College. The game was played at an up tempo pace, with no more than three points separating either team throughout the entire game. Opportunities were presented and frittered away by both teams; however One Tree Hill College prevailed with a hard fought 67-66 win over MAGS. Albeit a little disappointed, on reflection we achieved both our objectives for the season. Special mention goes to Captain Trent Kimiangatau who was the stand-out player of this tournament, and was aptly supported by Nathan Edwards. In addition the development of younger players Jonty Vink and Joseph Onyueke gives us confidence the basketball programme will continue to succeed in fututre years.
Regional Boys’ Basketball Tournament – Auckland In the Greater Auckland Basketball Tournament sectional play the senior boys’ team had wins over Alfriston College and Westlake Boys’ High School, and one loss to Massey High School. The team qualified for the semifinals vs Liston College. MAGS battled to overcome early foul trouble and turnovers but fought to challenge for the win in the final minutes. Unfortunately, the end result was a 41-50 loss.
Sport
Regional Girls’ Basketball Tournament – Auckland Our team suffered some significant injuries this year and so the Premier team had to go out looking for more players a week before Regionals. We invited some Under 15 and Under 17 players to trial and selected Elle Temu, Liz Beaumont and Taunten King to join the Premier Girls’ team. I am pleased to note that with the injection of these young players our team was more positive than ever. At Regionals our pool included our annual foe Westlake Girls’ High School and again we narrowly lost to them, resulting in the team finishing second in our pool and facing Rangitoto College in the semi finals. The semi final was a game of quarters, we were competitive in three of the four quarters but our effort in the second quarter sealed our fate and we were left to play off for third and fourth. Our competitor for this game was Massey High School our nemesis for the whole premier season and a team we had lost to twice by one point each time. The girls were a little nervous at the team talk, but pointed out how far we had come in the season and how focused we would need to be as a team to not only win but release the girls from their current mental headspace with Massey. After a slow start in the first quarter the scores were close with MAGS just slightly up, but the positivity of the girls and the hard work on court with the continuous subbing helped us to be up by 10 points halfway through the second quarter. This was a game changer. Suddenly everyone believed and there was positive noise from our bench. There were outstanding performances by Idaho Purcell who was named our Player of the Match. Luisa Roberts and Jess Nicholson our captain and vice-captain left it all on the court. We won by 20 points and that’s with our entire bench featuring for big minutes. It’s amazing what a bit of self-belief and team spirit will do to a team, so we head off to Nationals in Palmerston North in the first week of October where we are hoping to increase our second place from last year.
NZSS Cycling Championships Auckland
Seven riders took part in the National Secondary Schools’ Individual Championships held around Mt Wellington over the weekend of the 7-8 of September. As on so many occasions this year, our novice riders competed shoulder to shoulder with riders from experienced and very well supported teams from across New Zealand. All our riders recorded creditable times. The highlights were Jeremy King’s 10th place in the Under 15B grade; Guy Hirst’s 7th place in the Under 20 criterium and Rasmus Jacobsen’s 27th place in the Under 15A Grade.
NZSS Premier Boys’ Football Tournament – Taupo With the Auckland Secondary Schools’ Premier League title tucked away MAGS departed to the National Tournament, held for the first time in Taupo. The squad was minus Liam Jordan who was overseas and also included a number of players who were carrying knocks after an arduous season that extended the young squad to the limit. The group stage was won beating St Bede’s College (Christchurch) 6-0, drawing with Tauranga Boys’ College 0-0, and after an early score going down 1-0 eventually overpowering Nelson College 3-1. In the quarterfinals, Christchurch Boys’ High School were beaten 2-0 with under 17 international Monty Patterson grabbing both goals. The semi final was always going to be a tough encounter drawn against local rival Auckland Grammar School. MAGS eventually lost 1-0 after extra time to a freak goal that took a bad bounce over the outstretched arm of MAGS goalkeeper Cameron Hogg. In the third and fourth play off versus St Peter’s School (Cambridge) MAGS played all the players who are eligible for 2014 to give the youngsters further experience. They acquitted themselves well eventually losing 2-0 to finish in fourth place.
NZSS Premier Girls’ Football Tournament - Nelson Our relatively young First XI finished as National Champions, having won every game of the tournament. Results: v Macleans won Jade Parris in the national final against 6-0, v Hillcrest Rangitoto College. Photo/Phillip Rollo. won 5-0, v Waimea won 1-0, v Nelson Girls won 3-0, QF v St Hildas won 3-0, SF v Hamilton Girls won 3-1, Final v Rangitoto College won 1-0 Recently crowned Auckland Secondary School Girls’ League Champions for the second year running, the MAGS girls started the NZ Secondary School Nationals strongly, topping their pool with three convincing wins against Macleans College, Hillcrest High School and Waimea College. Waimea proving to be the hardest pool game for MAGS and although MAGS dominated the game they were finding it hard to breakdown the Waimea
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 31
Sport
Boys’ First XI Hockey Tournament Napier
The First XI Girls’ Football team with coach Paul Marshall and their National Championship trophy.
defence to get the opening goal. Perseverance certainly paid off as attack after attack eventually lead to a goal for Jacqui Hand (Mt Albert Grammar tournament MVP), which sealed the win. The top 16 beckoned for the Mt Albert Grammar girls where they faced local favourite Nelson College. After a tense first half Mt Albert Grammar sealed the win with three well constructed goals, with the final score 3-0. The quarter final against St Hilda’s Collegiate School was a tense affair. At halftime the match was nil all. The second half saw the Mt Albert Grammar girls score three goals sealing the victory and a place in the semifinal. Hamilton Girls’ High School were formidable opposition and had played well throughout the tournament and they certainly took the semifinal game to Mt Albert going up 1 nil from a corner. The Mt Albert girls retained their composure and leveled the game. Mt Albert scored two more goals to finish the game with a 3-1 win. Mt Albert Grammar faced their old foe Rangitoto College in the final. Rangitoto and Mt Albert both with one Auckland domestic trophy each and having made the final were both eager to finish the season top and the best team in New Zealand. The Mt Albert girls were determined to ensure they would return home as National Champions and played with passion and accuracy. This was a close game, tensely fought and the game of the tournament. The defence of both teams was strong. With five minutes to go, the score at nil all, and MAGS mounting numerous attacks during a period of sustained pressure. One of these attacks saw Jade Parris taken down in the penalty box and a penalty was awarded, after some accurate exchanges of the ball by the MAGS team. Jade stepped up to take the penalty and calmly slotted the goal. Final score: Mt Albert Grammar 1 - Rangitoto nil. Many thanks to the amazing parent support in Nelson. Also a huge thank you to the amazing Jo Pritchard and her band of fund raisers. A special thanks to Headmaster Mr Burden for his support during the tournament. Your presence topped off a wonderful week for MAGS Football.
32
The India Shield Hockey tournament was held in Napier this year being played at the Park Island Turfs, from 2-6 September. The team finished first in their pool with three wins from three games against Whangarei Boys’ High School, Kamo College and Western Heights High School. Aiming for a top four finish the team took on Hastings Boys’ High School in the quarterfinals on Wednesday, a hard fought game unfortunately lead to a loss. The team went on to finish fifth equal after defeating local Auckland rivals, Macleans College, and drawing the fifth and sixth playoff game with Christchurch Boys’ High School. With only one loss in the whole tournament, it was a frustrating draw for the MAGS team to meet the eventual winner of the tournament, Hastings Boys’ High School in the quarterfinal round. A special thank you to Earthco Civil Ltd for their sponsorship of the team at tournament. Finally to the Year 13 players who have played their final game for Mount Albert Grammar School: Jeremy Barnett, Ryan Goode, Oscar Lipscombe, Wade Somani and Henry Waller – thank you for your contribution to MAGS hockey! Results: vs Whangarei Boys’ High School Win 3-2, vs Kamo College Win 3-2, vs Western Heights High School Win 3-0, vs Hastings Boys’ High School Loss 1-4, vs Macleans College Win 3-2, vs Christchurch Boys’ High School Draw 2-2. Player Of the Match Awards: Game One: Wade Somani, Game Two: Oscar Lipscombe, Game Three: Jack Henderson, Game Four: Shae Iswar, Game Five: Terry Gada, Game Six: Shae Iswar
Girls’ 1st XI Hockey Tournament Nelson The Mount Albert Grammar School First XI girls’ hockey team returned to the second tier Marie Fry Tournament for the first time in four years following their second place in the Chica Gilmour Trophy in 2012. MAGS, without two key players in injured captain Hannah Ward and striker Shae Miller, were always going to struggle at this level of competition. This was further emphasised with their pool including top ranked Rangitoto College, Supercity third place-getter Westlake Girls’ High School (who subsequently won the tournament) and top Tauranga school, Otumoetai College. MAGS began the tournament showing good form with a hard-fought 4-2 loss to Rangitoto College. Despite the margin they pushed the number one seeds, competing in every facet of the game and took a great deal of pride from the game. However, the team could not follow up this performance in their second game of the day, going down 1-0 against Otumoetai College in an error
Sport
ridden and lack-lustre performance. On the second day a dominant Westlake Girls’ consigned MAGS to last in their pool with a 3-0 win. The crucial cross-over on Wednesday was against St Peter’s School, Cambridge. A must win if they were to escape relegation for 2014. Despite an early goal, the injury and illness stricken MAGS team could not withstand a hungry St Peter’s attack and ended the game 4-1 down. The remaining two games were all about MAGS pride and the team showed their tenacity with a good 3-1 win over Waimea College before going down 1-0 to Greymouth High School in their last game. Overall, while a disappointing 14th place, the team has every reason to be proud of their performance. The girls certainly learned a great deal about pride, perseverance and resilience, which hopefully will hold them in good stead for years to come. Most valuable player for the tournament was awarded to stand-in Captain, Briar Tippett for her positive, never say die attitude both on and off the field. Game Statistics One win and five losses Six goals for and 14 goals against Goal scorers: Celine Pearn; Lauren Blanchard; Emma Donald; Hannah Elia; Courtney Wright; Briar Tippett
Girls’ Lacrosse National Championship - Cambridge MAGS defended their title convincingly, winning every game of the tournament. They saw off Epsom Girls Grammar 14-5 in the semi-final, and claimed the final 8-3 over Cambridge High School. In all MAGS scored 63 goals across the tournament and conceded only 27. The Most Valued Players of the tournament were Georgia Carter and Briar Tippett. Most Improved were Matia Grace and Luisa Roberts. Special thanks to the team’s Albertian coaches Valdimir Boykov and Olivia Hext.
UNISS Netball Tournament – Auckland In a replay of the Auckland Secondary Schools final, MAGS beat Baradene 36-19 to take out the Upper North Island Secondary Schools’ Netball Championship in Auckland on 6 September, for the seventh year in a row. Maia Wilson, Jamie-Lee Price, Holly Fowler and Chiara Semple were later named in the Tournament team.
Captain Jamie-Lee Price was named Mid-Courter of the Tournament. Over the five day tournament at the Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre, MAGS won all 10 games they played. Co-coach TeAroha Keenan says the team’s dominance was underlined in the final, which they won convincingly. “But we’re not expecting that going into the New Zealand Secondary Schools’ final,” says Ms Keenan. “We will be challenged; there are a lot of little things we need to tidy up before then.” She and co-coach Paula Smith are looking forward to the girls having four weeks of dedicated training with the Premier team. Two positions in the 10-person squad are up for grabs as they will be retrial led. The team will be hoping to retain their NZSS title during week two of the upcoming holidays, which will be played at the Auckland Netball Centre. Keep an eye on the website for the draw and progress details.
NZ Under 15 Rugby Tournament Auckland MAGS hosted this keenly watched tournament, which saw 16 teams from around the country play 48 games over five days at Marist Rugby Club in Mt Wellington. MAGS was unable to defend the title we won last year, but competed well and came third. This team has been well coached by two parents who are former All Blacks - Ofisa Tonu’u and Eroni Clarke. The boys made real gains and a number of players will be ready to step up to the First XV in the next couple of seasons, including Isaiah Papalii, Niven Longopoa, Waimana KapaReidlinger, Salyn Tonu’u, Caleb Clarke, Richmond Patea, Paul Roache and Robb Cobb.
NZSS Rugby League Championships – Papakura MAGS First XIII rugby league team was unable to claim the national secondary schools title on 6 September, bowing out 18-24 to Kelston Boys High School. But they left the competition knowing they made it all the way to the final for the first time and five members of the MAGS First XIII were named in the Team of Merit at the New Zealand Rugby League Secondary Schools Awards at Mt Smart Stadium on 5 September. Irae Simone received the Vodafone Warriors Best Back Award. The five players picked for the Team of Merit were Brody Lam, John Tapueluelu, Irae Simone, Nathaniel
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 33
Sport
NZSS Swimming Championships – Hamilton
The First XIII Rugby League team, coached by former Warrior Steve Price, made the National final for the first time, coming runner up to Kelston Boys High School.
Roache and Connor Purcell. Speakers during the evening included Mayor of Auckland Len Brown, Vic Tamati from Its Not OK!, Warriors players Ben Henry and Glen Fishiiahi, Dain Guttenbeil and Tony Iro from the NZRL and Wallace Haumaha from NZ Police. All the speakers focused on a common theme, asking the players to take what they were learning in their roles as team members and players and applying this to their lives. Key words and phrases used by many of the speakers included discipline, courage, respect, leadership, making good choices, building good relationships with their team mates, visitors from the other schools, and their wider community. Mount Albert Grammar captain Nathaniel Roache put it most succinctly when he said “Good players make good people and good people better players”, which earned him applause from the group.
A small team of three athletes travelled to Hamilton to compete at this event. The competition attracted the best school aged swimmers in the country, including participants in the recent World Youth Games and a Junior World Record holder. Despite the high standard of competition and small size of our team our swimmers punched above their weight, finishing a respectable mid-table. Tyler Jerrom 15-year-old boys’ grade: Gold in 50m Butterfly Bronze in 100m Butterfly Fourth in Open Butterfly skins Sixth in 50m freestyle Tenth in 200m Butterfly in 15 year old Boys’ grade Hana Newnham-McGrath 13-year-old girls’ grade: Bronze in 100m Breaststroke Fifth in 50m Breaststroke Charlotte Pritchard 16-years and over girls’ grade: Fourth in 100m Butterfly Firth in 50m Butterfly Seventh in 200m Butterfly, Seventh in 50m Freestyle Seventh in 50m Backstroke Ninth in 100m Backstroke
Thank you to our supporters Mount Albert Grammar School thanks the following charitable trusts for their support with sports teams accommodation and/or transport costs to winter sports tournaments in 2013.
34
corridors THE NEWSLETTER OF THE MOUNT ALBERT GRAMMAR SCHOOL ALBERTIANS ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED
No 35 September 2013
Congratulations Albertians in world championship teams Teams that won gold in August at the World Youth Netball Cup held in Glasgow and the Under-23 Underwater Hockey World Championships in Hungary included MAGS students who graduated last year. In the netball final on 31 August New Zealand beat Australia 52-47. Among the players were Erikana Pedersen and Nadia Loveday, two stars of MAGS’ Premier team in 2012. The under-23 underwater hockey team also played Australia in their final on 29 August, beating them 4-2. The New Zealand team included Danyon Kemp and Matt Trevalyan, who played for MAGS until last year. Danyon is still with us as coach of the Premier girls’ team. Also in the New Zealand team were Albertians Cali Manly (2006-2011) and Logan Kemp (2004-2008). Logan has also returned to MAGS as the coach of our Premier boys’ team. A number of past MAGS students were in the various New Zealand underwater hockey age group teams that won a total of four gold and two silver medals, including James Rowe and Sam Schulz. MAGS congratulates all members of the New Zealand teams on their championships, particularly our young alumni.
The World Youth Netball Cup champion team includes recent MAGS students Erikana Pedersen (bottom left) and Nadia Loveday (standing right of World Netball President Molly Rhone).
From left: Erikana Pedersen in action, and Danyon Kemp (number 4) at U23 Underwater Hockey World Champs.
MAGS city boy named Young Maori Farmer of the Year Jordan Smith, a student at MAGS from 2004-2006, has won the 2013 Ahuwhenua Young Maori Farmer of the Year award. Jordan, 22, grew up in Blockhouse Bay but says he always wanted to be a farmer, so applied to attend the only Auckland school that had a farm on its campus, Mt Albert Grammar. He studied Agriculture with Mrs Farmer in years 10 and 11, and in a Radio New Zealand interview says those studies “ignited a passion for farming.” Farm manager Larney Palmer remembers Jordan as a quiet boy who “grew and grew” during his time at the school. Mrs Farmer helped Jordan get accepted into a dairy farming course, and he now works on a beef and sheep farm near Te Kuiti. You can listen to him speak about his progress, and what he loves about farming, at this web address: Jordan Smith with runner-up www.radionz.co.nz/audio/player/2565124 Te Moana Sidney. One of his best comments that every student could relate to regards overcoming a “blip” in his career progress when he went to a farm job that wasn’t right for him. “There are always rocky patches with anything you do, that’s just life. Things aren’t always going to go your way. You just have to keep the attitude that there will be a brighter day tomorrow. Things have a funny way of working out.”
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 35
From the archives The Boxer No, not the Simon and Garfunkel song, rather the boxer Dudley Walter Rollinson (1934-1939), who switched schools for a month so he could claim the college boxing title. When Rollinson arrived at MAGS he was put into 3B under the tender ministrations of Mr CT (‘Sticky’) Harris, then on to 4B with Mr CP (‘Pop’) Worley. In Lower 5 he had the gruff, no-nonsense Mr JG (‘Butch’) Brown as a form master followed in Upper 5 Latin by the energetic and booming Mr HL (‘Jas’) Calder. At the end of Term 2 (20 August 1937) he left for Sacred Heart College. The Sacred Heart College Old Boys’ Association has a record of him arriving on 7 September 1937. The encyclopaedic Tony Waters, author of Confortare: A history of Sacred Heart College, Auckland 1903-2003 (pg97) wrote: “Such was the rivalry among boxers that one of Mt Albert Grammar’s champion boxers, Dudley Rollinson, enrolled at Sacred Heart in the third term of 1937 for what is believed to be the sole purpose of beating college champion Rod McKenzie and taking the college heavyweight boxing title. After winning the title he left the college before the end of the year [Kerry says 8 October 1937] and returned to Mt Albert Grammar.” In 1938 Rollinson spent another year in the fifth form, this time in Senior 5 with Mr HL (‘Herb’) Towers. He was a Prefect, a rower, a rugby player, and no one would fight him so he was unopposed boxing champion. That year, 1938, was the School’s greatest sporting year. We really did win everything. The even-tempered Headmaster Gamble said in his report for 1938:
“We can properly view with satisfaction that in team-work the school figured with unusual prominence this year.” Dud Rollinson had a sixth year here in 6BC(i) with Mr W (‘Granny’) Caradus. He was Head Prefect, a member of the First XV, in the Senior Athletics team (he won the shot put), the choir, Sergeant Major of B Company, Captain of Rowing and, of course Heavyweight Boxing Champion. The Albertian 1939 (pg54) reported that: “In presenting the school Heavyweight Boxing Champion, D.W. Rollinson with his prizes, Mr Bush congratulated him on being the Auckland Cruiser-weight champion. Rollinson had missed only by a fraction the New Zealand Championship at Invercargill.” A report in the same magazine on the Head of the Harbour rowing race stated: “The runner of Number seven’s [Rollinson’s] seat broke, putting him completely out of action. Realising that his useless weight was a hindrance to the crew he threw his oar out and dived after it. By this time Sacred Heart had increased their lead to three lengths.” In the book Tradition and Change about MAGS first 75 years, the late sports historian NAC McMillan writes that Rollinson was “--- New Zealand Universities heavyweight champion, 1941. Bad eyesight precluded him from war service.” McMillan states that Rollinson ran a bus service and cinema in Waiuku during and after the war. He was New Zealand light-heavyweight champion 1947 and 1948. He coached boxing and worked as a sales representative. He moved to Sydney, where he died in 1983. For one with poor eyesight to be such a determined boxer, and to later run a bus service and cinema, is a measure of a man who did not shrink from challenges. Brian Murphy, Archivist
MAGS’ boxing heyday - a photo of “Champions of Mt Albert Grammar School” shows DW Rollinson at far left. Published in the Auckland Star on October 21, 1939.
36
corridors From the archives The MAGS metric men Three men of Mt Albert Grammar played significant roles in the metrification of New Zealand. The first was Ian D Stevenson (1924-1927). He began in a humble way as a cadet on 5 shillings per week and progressed to an MSc (Hons) degree and work within The New Zealand Railways in charge of Electrical Engineering. He became chairman of the Physics Section of the RSNZ. 1 He was appointed Chairman of the Metric Advisory Board set up in February 1969. In order to give metrification a human face Stevenson worked with the parents of a baby girl and named her Miss Metric and her progress was used to show the progress of metrification in press releases. Stevenson’s board produced a 10- minute film for theatre distribution and produced displays for shopping malls and give-away items such as calendars, cubic decimetres, a 150mm ruler and much else. By mid 1974 the Board had over 300 people on its planning committees and had 74 registered speakers. It had industry–oriented circulars, guides and booklets. Building and construction, transportation and a wide range of manufacturing and processing industries had largely completed the changeover. By the time that Parliament had passed the Weights and Measures Amendment Act (1976) it had set the scene for the outlawing of imperial measurements. 2 That it all went a great deal better that it might have is a testament to Ian Stevenson’s guiding hand. Sydney L Moses (1923-1925) was a man of parts. As well as being a prefect he was an action-man; two years in the First XV and senior record holder in the 100, 220 and 440 yards. Post-school he won the New Zealand Tourist Trophy motorcycle races in 1931, 1933 and 1934. He represented New Zealand in the Isle of Man TT in 1933. In the Second World War he rose to the rank of Major. 3 On returning from war he held several managerial positions before being selected as Chairman of the Decimal Currency Board in 1964. The Board was charged with changing the duo-decimal currency system (12 pence to the shilling and 20 shillings to the pound) to a decimal system. The Board introduced a cartoon character called “Mr Dollar” (who had European and Maori incarnations) and while Mr Dollar appeared in the same media as Miss Metric, the new, powerful medium of television saw the animated Mr Dollar complete with backing group and a catchy jingle. During 1966 he could be heard with: ‘The tenth of July next year, when pounds, shillings and pence become dollars and cents”. When the changeover came at midnight on Monday 10 July 1967, 27 million new bank notes in $1, $2, $5, $10, $20 and $100 denominations and 165 million new
Albertian Sir Robert Muldoon, then the Finance Minister, with examples of the new decimal currency in 1967.
Photo courtesy of the Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington.
coins in 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c (still called a shilling), 20c, 50c, were all set to go. Old currency remained legal tender but as it was returned to banks it was withdrawn. However sixpence, shilling and florin coins had precise decimal equivalents and remained in circulation longer before being demonetised. As Syd Moses said, “No change is made without inconvenience” 4. He went on to say that people would find the change much easier by using the two values as stepping-stones. People could offer a little more money and then get the right change back. “I’ll be surprised if we haven’t managed to complete the changeover by about this time next year”. So it proved to be. The other player in the money makeover was one of the smallest boys in the school, Rawlings Scholar and captain of the Intermediate B soccer team. Robert D Muldoon (1933-1936). 5 He left school early and became an arrears clerk for Fletcher Construction. In 1939 he joined the army and served in the South Pacific and Italy where he completed his accountancy examinations. On his return, in 1947, he joined the Junior Nationals and in 1960 he was elected MP for Tamaki. In 1963 he was Under-Secretary for Finance
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 37
with responsibility for the introduction of decimal currency. 6 Moses’ Board had members representing Treasury, the Reserve Bank, the Post Office, the trading banks and commerce. A Coinage Design Advisory Committee to advise the Government was established. The obverse was to be, with Her Majesty’s approval, the left-facing effigy designed by Arnold Machin – the same head as that on all UK postage stamps. There was much discussion of the reverse, the bizarre and the avant-garde were rejected in favour of the safe. The Coinage Act 1933 was replaced by the Decimal Currency Act 1964 which gave the legal framework for the changeover. The Post Office had decimal stamps ready for release on Decimal Currency Day (18 definitive stamps, four postal fiscals, six Government Life Insurance, four Ross Dependency). 7 Before the big day the banks were closed for four days (including a weekend). Prime Minister Keith Holyoake and by-now-Finance Minister Muldoon made soothing speeches predicting that the change would cause no worry. And apart from a few grumpy old people who took the new notes back to a bank demanding that they exchange the play money dollar for a real ten shilling note, there was no real worry. Syd Moses’ Board and Rob Muldoon’s acumen ensured a smooth transition. Seldom has a single school produced three men who have influenced the daily lives of all the member of a nation’s citizens. Brian Murphy, Archivist 1. Brown, J.G. (1971), Mount Albert Grammar School Golden Jubilee p: 68 (Broughtwood) 2. Joseph P Reid, President Emeritus, Canadian Metric Association (USMA Website:
hard core of up-to-tricks House Boys. He was at School at the same time as drummer Frank Gibson Jr. They got together when Frank went looking for the boy who scribbled “Monk” on a wall. Frank guessed, correctly, that it was not a reference to a man in a religious order, but the jazz pianist and composer Theolonius Monk. Frank and Murray established a lifetime friendship and played countless gigs together. Like Monk, McNabb was a keyboard player and composer. He not only had a long career in improvised music, he helped pay the bills by writing commercials, including the Crunchie train robbery advertisement. He worked on soundtracks for film and television including Once Were Warriors and Broken English. He wrote the wonderful award-winning America’s Cup song Sailing Away. He lived up to his belief that “the new man must have the courage to be new.” He was diagnosed with cancer and as his life came to a close he continued to perform. He said of death, “---it’s just a process ... I’ll be all right as long as I keep giggling”. Her died on 9 June this year, aged 66. Brian Murphy, Archivist
Foundation Trustees “The Foundation Board is fully committed to ensuring that all members of the school community and its affiliate groups work together for the common good of strengthening the vision, values and aims of MAGS in a very real and purposeful manner.” Tim Goulding Tim Goulding Greg Moyle Greg Taylor Grant Wilson Dale Burden
tim@doglaw.co.nz greg@akld.nzfp.co.nz gregt@iconz.co.nz g.watson@xtra.co.nz headmaster@mags.school.nz
Metric usage and metrification in other countries.) 3. Stone, RCJ. (1997), Tradition and Change: Mount Albert Grammar School: The First Seventy-Five Years p 384 (Mount Albert Grammar School). 4. Southland Times (undated, unpaginated – on Stuff website). 5. Stone, ibid. p 385. 6. Wikipedia (Robert Muldoon) 7. Campbell Paterson Ltd: Catalogue of New Zealand Stamps. Permanent Pages OD1(A), OD1(B), X3, RD5, Temporary page Z8.
Obituary Murray Wallace McNabb, Musician At Mount Albert Grammar School 1960-1965. Murray McNabb started here in 3B. He was then in the 4B French, Senior 5, Senior 5 again, 6 General and 6 General again. He played cricket and rugby and was engaged in athletics. In his last year he was the Flight Commander in the ATC and a prefect. The only other prefect in his class was Dave McIntyre, and there was a
38
Association Executive List PRESIDENT Ben Stallworthy Ben.Stallworthy@aucklandtransport.govt.nz IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Maelen Tagelagi tagmed@vodafone.co.nz MINUTES SECRETARY Tim Kay tkay@mags.school.nz TREASURER Kent Routen kent@kiwisemarketing.co.nz COMMITTEE Danica Atkins danica.atkins@gmail.com David Griffin david@cglord.co.nz Dale Griffiths dale@wvp.co.nz Brett Kingstone b.kingstone@kbhs.school.nz Aftab Moosa supermoosa@gmail.com Greg Moyle greg@akld.nzfp.co.nz Brian Murphy bmurphy@mags.school.nz Michael Riley Michael.Riley@aucklandtransport.govt.nz Greg Taylor gregt@iconz.co.nz Dale Burden headmaster@mags.school.nz
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Community support for MAGS Mount Albert Grammar School thanks the following contractors and suppliers for their ongoing support of the school.
! !
We can help you look after your property. • Painting Services • Signage • Grounds Services • Building Refurbishments and Repairs • Electrical and Communications
"#"" $% &""" ' ( ) * &0 ( 1 % )
Contact us to find out more about our services: programmed.co.nz 0800 620 911 marketing@programmed.co.nz
+++, - . , , /
Scan to read our brochure
Advert Temp_GNDS_A5_L.indd 1
AK Electrical for commercial and domestic We specialise in installation and maintenance
• Hot water repairs • Stove repairs • Phone and data repairs • Office maintenance • Lights and power points AK Electrical P: M: E: A:
2/05/2013 3:16:10 PM
All proceeds from advertisements on this page go directly to maintain and improve MAGS property. To advertise here please contact Tim Kay at tkay@mags.school.nz
CALL KEVIN TODAY... 625 5414 (027) 493 2414 kevin@akelectrical.co.nz PO Box 27-155, Auckland 1440
www.akelectrical.co.nz
VOLUME 8.No3
TERM 3.2013
Quarterly 39
TERM 4 CALENDAR
October
November
14
Monday
Term 4 Commences
Hall of Distinction Ceremony in F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.10pm
18
Friday
Arts Lions Ceremony in F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.10pm
21
Monday
Albertian of the Year Ceremony in F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.10pm
22
Tuesday
Annual Sports Dinner at Alexandra Park Raceway at 6.30pm
23
Wednesday
Year 10 Market Day
24
Thursday
Year 12 & 13 Media Evening in E Block at 7.00pm
25
Friday
Service Lions Ceremony in F.W. Gamble Hall at 2.10pm
28
Monday
Labour Day
29
Tuesday
Arts Dinner at Sorrento in the Park at 7.00pm
30
Wednesday
Pasifika Awards Evening in F.W. Gamble Hall at 7.00pm
31
Thursday
School House Prizegiving at School House
1
Friday
Year 11 Prizegiving in F.W. Gamble Hall at 1.45pm
4
Monday
Years 9-11 Study Leave
Senior Prizegiving in F.W. Gamble Hall at 12.30pm
Leavers Dinner at Ellerslie Event Centre at 6.30pm
7
Thursday
Year 8 Girls Academic Testing am / Academy testing pm
8
Friday
Year 8 Boys Academic Testing am / Academy testing pm
NCEA Examinations commence
December
12-15
Tues-Fri
Junior Examinations
15
Friday
Year 8 Catch up Testing
21
Thursday
Stardome Observatory Trip
23
Saturday
Duke of Edinburgh Camp
28
Thursday
Te Puna Farewell at Waipapa Marae
29-2
Fri-Mon
Year 10 Outdoor Education Trip - Motutapu
3
Tuesday
Year 9 Inter Form Class Competition
4
Wednesday
Year 10 Inter Form Class Competition
5
Thursday
Inter Form Class Competition Winners –
Movie and Lunch at St Lukes
6
Friday
Year 10 Prizegiving at 9.30am in F.W. Gamble Hall
Year 9 Prizegiving at 12.30pm in F.W. Gamble Hall
End of Term 4
2014 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS Auckland Anniversary Day
Monday 27 January
Easter Tuesday
Tuesday 22 April
Waitangi Day
Thursday 6 February
Anzac Day
Friday 25 April
Good Friday
Friday 18 April
Queen’s Birthday
Monday 2 June
Easter Monday
Monday 21 April
Labour Day
Monday 27 October
2014 TERM DATES TERM 1 TERM 2 TERM 3 TERM 4
Tuesday 28 January Year 9 only Wednesday 29 January Full school in Monday 5 May Monday 21 July Monday 13 October
to to to to to
Thursday 17 April Thursday 17 April Friday 4 July Friday 26 September Tuesday 9 December
Alberton Avenue, Mt Albert, Auckland 1025 Tel: 64 9 846 2044 Fax: 64 9 846 2042 Email: headmaster@mags.school.nz w w w. m a g s . s c h o o l . n z