Winter Intercol Reports 2023

The 2023 Intercols, a much-anticipated series of sporting events, has drawn to a close, leaving in its wake a trail of triumphs, heartaches, and unforgettable moments. This year's Intercols showcased a blend of sports, from the strategic minds of chess players to the agility of squash contenders, the precision of snooker cues to the teamwork in basketball. Here, we delve into the exhilarating highs and bittersweet lows that defined this year's Intercol. Our sincere thanks to our hosts PAOCA and Mary-Ann Standish, PAOCA Executive Officer.

Squash: A Surprising Victory by SPOC

The squash court was ablaze with intensity as SPOC emerged victorious. Mark Esau (FLL 1972) convenor, announced with delight that SPOC clinched the squash Intercol title for the first time in many years. The results were as follows:

Chatula Kiripitige (HWK 2021) 0-3
Ramon Pathi (FLL 1993) 0-3
Sim Goh (SHT 1992) 3-0
Ben Esau (SHY 2002) 3-1
Chris Plummer (HWD 2005)  3-1
Punala Kiripitige (HWK 2016)3-1

This achievement marked a milestone for SPOC in a sport where triumphs are hard-won and competition fierce - congratulations! 

Badminton: SPOC Triumphs Over PAOC

In a thrilling showdown at the 2023 SPOC vs. PAOC Badminton Intercol, SPOC emerged victorious, securing a commanding lead of 7 matches to 2 over their competitors from PAOC.

SPOC Lineup:
Victor Dang (HWD 2021)
Kieran Ong (SHT 2011)
Austen Lindsay (DAC 2020)
Anson Lee (HWD 2014)
Isaiah Luc (HWD 2015)
Noah Luc (HWD 2021)
Weihang Khoo (WDK 2021)

The 2023 SPOC vs PAOC Badminton Intercol kicked off at the PAC Red Centre on the 27th of July. The night started with doubles. Victor and Noah played at the number 1 position, Kieran and Austen at number 2, and Anson and Isaiah at number 3. All doubles matches were tightly fought with 2 out of the 3 going to deciding sets. In the end SPOC came out leading the competition wining 2 matches and losing 1.

This gave us confidence going into the singles. Anson, Isaiah and Noah started the singles matches and we were able to build on the lead winning all three games. Anson did particularly well, defeating a very technically advanced opponent in three sets. It was then up to Victor, Kieran and Austen to finish off the match and secure victory for SPOC. Unfortunately, Kieran went down in three nail biting sets, while Austen was able to comfortably secure victory in straight sets. Victor had a very tough match against a well-seasoned opponent and played extremely well under pressure to win his match in a very entertaining three set finale.

SPOC would like to thank PAOC for hosting the Intercol this year and putting up such great competition. We look forward to returning the favour next year!

Isaiah Luc (HWD 2015), SPOC Badminton Convenor

Chess: A Close Encounter with Victory

Chess, a game of strategy and wits, saw a valiant effort by the team to retain their title. Held at PAC, the match showcased exceptional skill and mental prowess. Despite a nail-biting battle, PAC secured victory by the smallest of margins in the final minutes. Competing this year were Punala Kiripitige (HWK 2016), Peter Ballard HWD 1980), Chathula Kiripitige (HWK 2021), Stephen Daenke (HWK 2012), Rob Hoile (YNG 1973), Luca Paull (SHT 2022), and Jack Turnbull (YNG 2012) with notable wins for Punala, Rob, and Luca.

Basketball: Mixed Fortunes for SPOC

Winning A team
(Rear) Jared Vandersluys (FRR 2010), Thomas Goodall (SHT 2015), Charles Newland (DAC 2009) (acting Captain), Thomas Mestrov (HWK 2021)
(Front) Riley Brunsgard (HWK 2021), David Daniel (HWK 2021), Jonathan Daniel (MAC 2013), Ben Korte (HWK 2021)

In the realm of basketball, SPOC's A team emerged triumphant in a tightly contested game, clinching a victory of 63-54 for the Coronia Cup. The team showcased exceptional teamwork and resilience, keeping the lead throughout the game. The Strangways Cup B team, unfortunately, faced disappointment with a loss of 37-72, marred by the absence of key players.

SPOC B team
Ned Duggan (FLL 2020), Oliver Sainsbury (HWK 2010), Thomas Ferguson (MAC 2020) (C), Alex McDonald (YNG 2015), Lachie Cole (DAC 2021), Luke Wheare (YNG 2021)

However, the C game brought cheer to SPOC supporters as they secured a resounding win of 69-35 for the Trim Cup. The night turned out to be a celebration of SPOC's basketball prowess. Congratulations to all players and SPOC Basketball's William Strangways (HWK 1957) and Andrew Strangways (HWK 1992).

Winning C team
(Rear) Jaymin Woodcock*, Tom Bury (FRR 2019), Drew Willie (S&A 2022), Sam Martin (HWK 2005) (C), William Strangways (HWK 1957)
(Front) Antonio Perrotta (HWD 2016), Josiah Whittaker (S&A 2013), Dom Perrotta (HWD 2018)
*=non old scholar

Snooker: SPOC's Dominance Continues

The Old Scholars Snooker event, a cherished tradition during old scholars week, witnessed SPOC's continued dominance. The camaraderie and competitive spirit were evident as both teams displayed their skills. Despite a slight hiccup due to a miscommunication, SPOC's team rallied to secure a comfortable victory with a score of 11 frames to 4. The high break of the evening went to Jason Ahmad (SPOC) with a score of 29. Special mention to all SPOC players who particpated in the event which include: Richard Colley (WDK 1977); Jake Howie (MAC 1976); Ian Hogben (HWD 1975); Karl Kirsten (YNG 1992); Jon Cocks (FLL 1973); Andy Paull (SHT 1987); and Jason Ahmad (FLL 1987). We are already looking forward to and planning next year.

Bridge: A Cancellation Disappointment

A rare twist of fate befell the bridge event, as the annual contest faced a cancellation for the first time in 70 years. The event, meant to be a friendly contest between SPOC and PAOC, encountered challenges related to pair withdrawals and format preferences. Despite this setback, innovative suggestions for future contests, proposed by players themselves, hinted at the potential for exciting matches in the years to come. SPOC looks forward to hosting the event in 2024. 

Golf: A loss for SPOC

The Golf Intercol 2023 was an event filled with precision, camaraderie, and fierce competition. Held at Royal Adelaide Golf Club on Friday 21 July it brought together 50 golf enthusiasts from SPOC and PAOC for a day of swings and putts.

It was PAOCA who were victorious this year and we thank all those who participated.

Old scholars are encouraged to save the following dates for 2024: Friday 23 February 2024: SPSC Community Golf Day and Friday 19 July 2024: Intercol Golf Day.