Reigning premiers Padua College from Kedron are preparing to defend their title with key players ready for action as the highly anticipated Associated Independent Colleges (AIC) First XV rugby union competition begins.
The competition starts this Saturday with four exciting matches scheduled for the opening round. St Laurence’s College will play Villanova College at Runcorn, while Padua College hosts St Edmund’s College at their Banyo fields.
In other games, Marist College Ashgrove will play rival Iona College at home, and St Peters Lutheran College will face St Patrick’s College at Indooroopilly.
Season Expectations
Excitement is building for what promises to be a competitive season. St Laurence’s College will be eager to reclaim the premiership after their impressive unbeaten streak, which lasted from late 2019 until June 2024, ended.
They face a tough challenge from Padua College, last year’s champions, who are expected to show significant skill and determination under coach Andrew Clynes as they aim for back-to-back titles.
Other schools are also expected to feature strongly. Marist College Ashgrove, guided by coach Richard Graham, is anticipated to be well-prepared for the season’s challenges. St Edmund’s College is tipped to be a competitive force, while Iona College is known for bringing skill alongside their players’ characteristic toughness.
Villanova College teams are noted for their fighting spirit, and talent often emerges from St Peters Lutheran College and St Patrick’s College, who meet in the first round.
Kedron’s Key Talents
Padua College enters the season with several noteworthy players expected to make a big impact.
Flyhalf Damon Humphrys, now in Year 12, was influential even as a Year 10 student during Padua’s 2023 campaign. Known for his tactical kicking and reliable goalkicking, Humphrys played a key role in securing the 2024 premiership, the school’s first since 2016, setting up the deciding try in a crucial win over Ashgrove. His experience in important matches will be valuable for Padua this year.
In the forwards, Will Ross adds considerable strength to Padua’s tight five. Recognised within the Queensland Reds pathway programs at under-16 and under-18 levels, Ross is known for his hard work, particularly in securing lineout possession. His physicality, awareness on the field, and determined attitude are important assets for Padua’s premiership hopes.
Nate Clark, a tall and determined outside centre, adds talent to the backline. Also, in Year 12, Clark has kept match-fit by playing rugby league for Norths Devils’ under-19 team. He was a vital part of Padua’s successful 2024 team and is expected to be a key figure again this season, contributing significantly in both attack and defence.
The opening round promises intense clashes as teams quest for the AIC First XV premiership honours.
Published Date 29-April-2025
