Olympic Games veteran Tom Hoad entertained fellow Old Boys and their partners with Olympic stories at the annual Senior Old Boys Day at Aquinas College on August 25.

Tom (LC 1957), who was one of three Aquinians in the 1960 Rome team, represented Australia in water polo at every game up to 1988, either as a player – including a stint as captain - or coach.

He spoke with pride at the lunch in the Hughes Dining Room of how he watched fellow Aquinian Herb Elliott (LC 1955) win his famous 1500 metre gold medal in world record time in Rome. And guests were delighted that the college’s third representative at those games, oarsman Max Cunningham (LC 1954), also attended the lunch.

The Olympic theme was linked with the success of younger Old Boys, hockey co-captain Aran Zalewski (silver medal) and swimmer Zac Incerti (two swimming relay bronze medals) who performed at the recent Tokyo Gamers with distinction.

Other Senior Old Boys who spoke at the lunch of their time at the college and subsequent careers included Bill de Gruchy (LC 1947), Mike Erickson and Rob Kilderry (both LC 1958) and Chris Back (LC 1966).

The popular event included a welcoming complimentary coffee served from the college’s Holy Ground Coffee van, followed by a special assembly which showcased the impressive array of extra-curricular activities now being offered at the college. An excerpt from the recent Lion King production was a highlight.

Father Rodrigo da Costa Ponte celebrated Mass in the St Thomas Aquinas Chapel, delivering a brief but pertinent homily.

Special thanks for another most enjoyable Seniors Day must go to Nichole Rowson, the Events and Alumni Administrator, and Brother Max McAppion who helped organise the Mass before returning to classroom duties.