Vicarian Day 5 - Presidents Lunch

The 2013 Presidents Lunch - A Pictorial

Vicarian Day 4 - Leadership

Tomorrow is the OIRFC President's Lunch. 

It is my absolute favourite day of the year, so I thought it poignant to take some time and ponder about those great Presidents that have reigned over the mighty OIRFC.

In my personal opinion Old Iggies have been blessed with some great leaders:

President Bryant (aka JF Kennedy), for his 1st term

President Bryant (aka Obama ) for his current term

President Timmins (aka Fidel Castro )

President Easy (aka George W)

President Richards (aka Gorbachev) 

President Fahey (aka Ronnie Regan)

President Brennan (aka William H. Harrison)

President Bain (aka Nixon)

But my favourite is without doubt

President Xavier Craven, the "Bill Clinton" on Old Iggies.  

Why you may ask? 

For many this will be a irrational choice. . . . . 

For me it is all about character.

It is all about determination.

It is all about focus.

It is all about an unwillingness to veer from your goals.

It is all about never giving up no matter the obstacles

and it is all about leading your men straight into battle despite the danger

Now, none of this makes sense unless you watch this video of Xavier in action. 

It is a clear example of Xavier's stubborn determination and unwillingness to change his course.  The video is of the Riverview First XIII and Xavier is their Stroke and Leader.

Click the link below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?hl=en-GB&gl=AU&client=mv-google&v=55MrJxQXb9A&nomobile=1 

When people told Xavier to stop . . .  

NO! He kept going.

When people told Xavier to change his course . . . . 

NO! He ploughs straight ahead.

See you tomorrow.

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Insight Projects

Vicarian Day 3 - Lucky Red Underpants

Every week for football I wear lucky red underpants.
True Story.

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Building Durability

Vicarian Day 2 - A Ryde Story in 3 Parts

A funny think happened one day against Hunters Hill

It was back in 2000 and Old Iggies took on Hunters Hill at Ryde. Our diminutive 5/8 that was day was Petter Grattan. Hunters Hill were running middle of the table and we needed a win to stay in touch with the leaders.

We had a game plan, devised by supercoach, Baz Donohoe.  The plan was simple . . . . . . . .  . at all costs try to avoid a collision with the Hunters Hill Outside Centre and ex Samoan international Junior Saoi' Fafiuta Maileasi.

What happen next is still fiercely debated.
Here are 3 accounts of what happened that day

Part A: The Victim

It was a warm sunny late July day 2000 and 2nd grade had just had a convincing will over HH.  I was feeling pretty good about myself, a reasonable game at fly half  scoring a meat pie and generally controlling the game behind a pack that was going forward.  The family was there .. Buster in his splendid green slacks, Bec had brought down a 2 year Cam to watch. 

Following a victory, most of second grade settled in on the Western sideline at the North End of Ryde International.  A couple of conspicuous disappearances happened in the next 20 mins: 

        1) Dan Adamo - the flying dentist - went to BBQ and never came back 

        2) Jules 'Tiges' Facer - the aging winger who loved the move 'dentist' - went to see his girlfriend on the hill, and never came back 

At 3:52pm  (5 minutes prior to half time), I had just knocked the froth off my first VB (Thanks to rehydration consultants Tobeth & Harro) when first grade fullback Chris Newton went down in a tackle on the far side of the oval.  Todd smart flew over in a flash to attend and it was soon discovered,  his dodgy shoulder was no longer attached to his person and it was only his jersey and skin that was keeping it in place.  A 000 call was made and ambulance was dispatched from West Ryde. 

Coach Bazmati, looked searchingly around the sideline for a reserve full-back, and in a master stroke picked the massive second grade no. 10 to stop the marauding south Pacific Islanders.  C'est Moi. 

I quickly downed the VB, knowing I needed the energy and took my place stoically defending our line.  The scrum took place about 20 out, ball went through hands and the HH Outside centre (by the name of Junior Saoi' Fafiuta Maileasi) took the ball under his left wing and broke through the first line of defence.  The ball looked like a peanut under his arm. 

As he swatted would be tacklers away they laid around him like victims of a Hurricane.  There was Logerilli, following behind , not looking to make a tackle, rather just being sucked into his vortex . Junior Saoi' looked up from under his sloping brow with spit dripping from his mouth and saw the final a red, white and blue man in his path. 

He was moving at pace and weighing in at 125.8kgs he had momentum.  His knees were high.  His elbows were flailing. Time stood still (3.56pm). 

I attempted the only manoeuvre a 72kg man could to prevent his inertia, the 'human speed-hump technique'.  I threw myself at his legs in the hope I was slow him enough for others to bring him to a halt.  It was successful.  He was brought to ground 5 out from the try line.  A ruck ensued. The ball was cleared.  I was but a puddle on the bottom. 

In a brilliant piece of judgement, I had placed my jaw into his right knee that made it buckle and he fell to the ground as Logerelli fell over the top of his back.  Unfortunately my jaw did not take to that impact well. 

The first sight I remember is Schmoddley standing over me.  "You alright Grats" - "I dink I briijijfk mu gaaw" was the response. 

I was removed from the pitch to allow play to continue.  It had appeared I had lost a bottom middle tooth.  All and sundry conducted many emu parades looking for said tooth without luck.  I was took priority over Newt's ambo which arrived.  The paramedics had to put me in a neck brace, which I am sure is not how you treat a broken  jaw. 

I discovered at RNSH I had not lost a tooth, rather my jaw had split and the gap was a result.   

7 weeks eating through a straw - best diet I ever had. 

Part B: The Bi-Stander

If it please the court:

I was playing that day and suspect that some part of my body came into contact with the Grattanski melon at said point of impact.

I was proceeding in a northerly direction at Stade de Ryde, in pursuit of a large male of Polynesian appearance who was holding a football.

It was unclear at that stage whether the football was his or whether he had stolen it. I was attempting to apprehend him.

He was proceeding at a velocity clearly above the speed limit and was approaching Grattanski in a dangerous and reckless manner.

Grattanski had prepared a roadblock and was also attempting to apprehend the suspect.

As the suspect reached the roadblock he baulked and dropped his shoulder into the aforementioned Grattanski.

As I was pursuing from behind, the sudden loss of speed from the suspect meant that as I launched at him, I was catapulted over his back and the three of us landed in an untidy heap on the ground.

When the suspect and I arose, he showed me a receipt for the purchase of the football at which point I apologized.

We both heard a groaning noise coming from the ground and turned to find The Road Block trying to relocate his jaw from under his right ear.

We stood back to allow the paramedic to gain access.

I took no further part in proceedings.

I estimate the time of the incident to have been approximately 3.56pm in July 2000.

Regards,

Andrew Logan

C/- Ryde Book Depository.

Part C: The Bio Pic

Peter Grattan - Before

Junior Saoi - or close approximate

Peter Grattan - After

Vicarian Day 1 - "Blessed are the Cheesemakers"

Rembrandt's Rood Wit en Blauw

Today is Rembrandt's 407th Birthday.

It is a (very) little known fact that Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn played amateur rugby for the premier Dutch team GFC (Gouda Football Club) known as:

The Gouda “Cheesemakers".

World famous for their war cry:

“Blessed are the Cheesemakers” *

Back in 1626 and 20 year old Rembrandt wore a red white and blue strip that had a distinct resemblance to The Old Ignatians of 2013.



Rembrandt immortalised this in his famous painting Rood Wit en Blauw 1636

Playing Career:
Played 25 games
15 Tries, 1 Penalty Goal

Guzzler - 3 tries against the Assen Dykes 15th Feb 1626
Guzzler - 1 try against archrivals the Edam 22 Feb 1629

It is reported that Rembrandt was a flighty winger, who like many who have followed in his steps and refused to tackle.

* “Blessed are the Cheesemakers” was later trademarked by Monty Python
For more information click on the following link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xLUEMj6cwA

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Vicarian Newsletter back for this week only

The Old Iggies Rugby season is on a precipice and this weekend’s game against Hunters Hill will be a pivotal moment in the history of Old Iggies Rugby.

We current sitting in 9^th position and need to consolidate this position with a strong performance at Boronia Park.

So in a lead up to this game I am bringing the Vicarious Members Blog back. With some small commentary on the teams chances.

One blog entry each day until Saturday.  It will be a big effort and all I ask for in return is your attendance on Saturday to support Old Iggies.

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OLD IGNATIANS' UNION   

1980's OIRFC Reunion

This Saturday, 18 May, there will be a reunion of Old Iggies players and coaches from the 1980s at Ryde Oval to watch the games against Mosman. It is the 45^th season of the club and it would be good see a lot of old faces on the sidelines to support the current players.

The day starts with 5^th grade at the ridiculous hour of 9:50am if you are keen to join Dave Bryant and the boys for an early start. Otherwise Colts kick off at 12:45pm with 2^nd grade at 2:00pm and 1^st grade at 3:15pm. You can then head straight out to Homebush to watch the Waratahs v Brumbies.

 

There will be other reunions and functions during the year to celebrate the 45^th season including the following reunions:

·         Saturday 22 June - The first decade of the club 1969-1979 at Ryde Oval for the games against Colleagues. This will also be the annual Supporters and Sponsors Day.

·         Saturday 13 July - 1990s and 2000s decade reunions at Ryde Oval for the games against Drummoyne.

If you have contact details for other players/coaches from the 1980s please send them an invitation to join us on the sidelines at Ryde this Saturday.

Hoges

 

 

Vale Fr Tom O'Donovan

RIP Father Tom O'Donovan
=================

Dear Brothers,
Peace.
Tom O'Donovan died at 3.15pm, on Saturday January 26th 2013. Australia Day and Indian Independence Day. Michael Ryan, Michael Kelly and Tom's niece Patricia O'Donovan were with Tom as he died, praying Tom's beloved Rosary together as he joined the heavenly choir. May he rest in peace.
In Our Lord
Steve (Curtin)
=================

SMH http://tributes.smh.com.au/obituaries/smh-au/obituary.aspx?n=thomas-odonovan&pid=162708459

ODONOVAN, Rev. Fr./Thomas ODonovan SJ.

Died peacefully on Australia Day at the age of 91 at Holy Spirit Croydon.
Loved son of Edmond and Mary (both dec) and brother of Brian and John (dec).

In proud and grateful memory of this devoted and zealous servant of his Lord during 75 years of Jesuit life and 61 years of priestly ministry.
His brother Jesuits will miss his warm sense of companionship and always admire his dedication to the many communities he served.

Concelebrated Requiem Mass in Thanksgiving will be celebrated at St Marys Church, corner and Miller and Ridge Streets, North Sydney on Friday (February 1, 2013) at 10.30 a.m.

Burial in the Jesuit Lawn Cemetery at Macquarie Park will follow at the conclusion of Mass.

A Vigil Mass will be celebrated at St Marys on Thursday, January 31, 2013 at 7.00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers any offering in memory of Fr.Tom will be gratefully received by the Jesuit Mission, 31 West Street, North Sydney, 2060.

=====================

Vale Toddy,
Like so many I benefited from his guidance from early days at St Aloysius then through senior years at St Ignatius. And ever since have enjoyed his company at countless weddings and christenings he has celebrated for the old boy community.

As was pointed out in another tribute he was even able to make a chapel full of Riverview boys sing with enthusiasm!! (That must qualify as a miracle!)

Most appropriate he passed on the National Days of both Australia and India, two countries that are the better for his life. And ironic also that he passed at 3.15, being the great rugby man he was - I'm sure the 1st XV in heaven will be looking forward to his guidance and pineapples at half time as I know the 1976 5th XV did! He was also a staunch advocate for the OIRFC and sport in general.

RIP

JB
====================

I am not an Alcoholic

Not sure if this 100% true - I can drink outside of Rugby times.

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Golden Oldies Curtain Raiser

The Old Ignatians Crusteceans will be taking on Drummoyne this Saturday at round 2pm. The game will be a curtain raiser to the 1st Grade fixture between Drummoyne and Old Ignatians.

If you are looking for a bit of fun heade down to Drummoyne Oval this weekend.

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Vale Two Dogs

Redmen,  some very sad news today as we have been advised of the passing of Justin Lenehan who played mid 80s to 90s.
A report can be read at http://fobr.prophpbb.com/topic69.html

Justin came to the club in 1986 and played 2nd grade and 3rd grade in a good year for both sides - 2s were joint premiers and 3s made the final.

He played for a number of seasons and was a significant member off the field, always participating in club activities. He was an integral member of our touring party to Hong Kong in 1989 which was a fantastic event for the club (though as you could  say if you remember the tour you weren't there....)

In recent years Justin has been in Canberra. I'm sure a few of his contemporaries, especially from the HK tour, may like to add some memories of Justin.

RIP "Two Dogs"

JB

Presidents Lunch - Friday 22nd June 12.30pm

We would like to invite you to
The OIRFC President’s Lunch
Date: Friday 22nd June 2012 from 12.30pm
Where: Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel
Cost: Equitimax can pay $135 each

Dress: Jacket & Tie
2 Course Meal -w- Beer / Wine & Soft Drink included
With special guest Comedian and a Former Wallaby there will be plenty
of laughs. 42 inch Flatscreen TV to be won (just found out about this a little excited)


RSVP today - please email Greg Easy on greg.easy@hotmail.com

Guessing Competition - Who is this Old Iggies Transformer

Who is this Old Iggies Transformer

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Who Stole My Socks

15 years ago
Back in my University days in Armidale I shared a floor with Damien Smith. "Smoothy" as we knew him then went on to represented QLD and Australia as a winger.

My mate Jimmy O'Brien of Old Iggies Halligan Cup fame was also on my floor and every week would accused Smoothy of stealing his socks.  It was not a sinister thing . . .  we all left our stinky socks in a college drying room and just took whatever was on offer . . . .  Jimmy being notoriously slow would be left without any socks each weekend.

Yes he is still bitter  . . . . and I don't think the fence between O'Brien and Smith will ever be fully mended.

Last Weekend
Well it seems a similar thing happen the other day to Andrew Logan.
Loges reports thast he had 2 sets of OIRFC Socks stolen by Tana Umaga and James Grant in a recent game played between the Australian Baabaas & the Australian Police.

Photos courtesy if @LogesOnRugby

The Vicarian - Gusessing Competition

Which Wallaby sent Boggy this little note?

"To Boggy, Up the Wallabies and the old bastards at Riverview Old Boys"

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The Vicarian - guessing competition

From the house of Richards comes this blast from the past. Can you name the people and significance of this photo?

As always JB will be excluded from comments.

Don't Worry. It Can Be Fixed....

I know it all looks bad at the moment but don't unfriend your Kiwi friends just yet (as if they have any right to get cocky).

It's all about the motivation.

THE JERSEY
Ignore for the moment my previous ranting about tight jerseys and the lack of desirability inherent in their design. For some reason the players seem to like them. For that reason they should be taken away until the Team starts playing like they deserve to wear them again. Instead, they should be made to wear something.....less desirable. I was intitially thinking pink and tight but exposure to the French Super Union (or whatever the f**k it's called) indicates todays player quite likes looking like a novelty condom so that's out.

My School Zone jersey was brown and white with 3/4 sleeves (I think it was some kind of povo public school anti-theft inititive). I reckon the boys would ruck enthusiastically into the gates of hell to get out of those horrendous abominations. They should wear them till the Quarters. If they don't make the quarters they get written to the contracts for a year.

TATTS
 Normally I would have no time at all for the tuff stickers but if they are going to be stamped all over every spare inch of flesh then their apparent desirablility should be harnessed for good. Every result should be tattooed on the arm of each player. So unless you WANT AUS V USA LOST 34-12
printed on your bicep next to the gothically printed names of your 3.5 children.......LIFT YOUR GAME.

BANDANAS
Get them all pissed and bet the lot of them - Win the Cup or you have to wear a ridiculous red bandana until some other Australian Team does. (It's the only explanation I can think off. Who was it Fitzy?  Kearnsey? Grant Fox? The Kafe? Who?)

PUT A KIWI IN CHARGE. AND MAKE ANOTHER ONE OUR CHIEF PLAYMAKER...
No. Wait. We already did that.
Matty T

Where is the Web Ellis? RWC 2011

Here is a great audio file from across the ditch explaining why New Zealand cannot win the World Cup.

Click here

Sorry if you have heard it before . . . .  or are from New Zealand.

World Cup - Can New Zealand Do it

I have seen some photos around the traps that are questioning New Zealand's chances in the World Cup this year.  I thought they were worth sharing:

The Vicarian - Guessing Competition

Who is this Old Iggies player see recently at the Rock?

 

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