The summer sport season marked the introduction of Grand Final play offs for both the APS and ASGV sporting competitions. 

Haileybury was the most represented school, qualifying for eight finals out of 11 that were played over the last weekend in March. 

Congratulations premiership winners 

• Firsts Girls Cricket 

• Firsts Girls Softball 

• Firsts Girls Badminton 

• Firsts Boys Badminton 

• Firsts Boys Volleyball

Congratulations grand finalists 

• Firsts Boys Table Tennis 
• Firsts Boys Cricket 
• Firsts Boys Touch Football 

In a season defined by support for each other, the Girls Firsts team finished with a Grand Final victory over Caulfield Grammar.  

“This win was a reflection of the hard work we’ve put in all season over every training and every moment. One of the biggest things we’ve learnt is the importance of backing each other, because when we support one another, we play our best cricket,” commented Bhanu, Firsts Girls Cricket Captain. 

Since Girls cricket was introduced as a summer sport in 2019 the team has built an impressive record, finishing top of the table for seven of the last eight seasons. 

“They’re a hugely talented bunch who play for each other. When one fails, another will always step up and perform,” said Cameron Davidson, Head of Girls Cricket. 

He also acknowledged the outstanding contribution of Head Coach Stefan Lidstrom whose leadership has lifted the team to even higher standards, as well as all the players and support staff.  

In a mark of Boys Badminton’s depth, dedication and commitment, the Firsts team won their 11th consecutive premiership.  

Through the summer season the team played against strong opponents such as Scotch College and Caulfield Grammar. 

Reflecting on the season, Sacha O’Connor-Price, Head of Badminton (Boys) highlighted the strong teamwork, which she believes is part of the reason for the team’s long-running success. She also acknowledged the efforts of Captain Erik and Vice Captain, Mike. “They have been the perfect role models for the younger students,” she said. 

Erik was also proud of his team’s efforts. “This win belongs to the whole team. It’s a testament to our dedication since day one of training and the incredible spirit we maintained right until the final point was won,” he said. 

The team was “always humble and showed respect to their opponents,” said Sacha, who also thanked coaches Andy Nguyen, Hung Pham and Evan Rusli for their support. 

The Girls Badminton season was marked by strong team spirit.  

“A major highlight was watching the team grow in confidence and teamwork. Their commitment at training and the way they supported each other on and off the court was outstanding,” commented Head of Badminton (Girls) Miki Thomas. 

Consistent training, a positive team culture and a willingness to improve were keys to success. The Grand Final against Wesley was a season highlight, with strong singles performances setting the tone for a memorable win.  

Kaitlyn, the 2026 Firsts captain, has played since Year 6 and demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership. Reflecting on her experiences, Kaitlyn says she has learnt to balance hard work and training with the importance of enjoying her sport with her teammates.   

“Winning the grand final and our sixth consecutive premiership was really big for the team. It was a goal that we had been hoping for the whole season,” she said. 

Miki identified the team’s hard work and encouragement for one another as well as the support of Olympian Victoria Na (OH 2008), as being instrumental in their success. “We have the great fortune to have players who are current state representatives in our team, which helps elevate the rest of the players’ training experience,” added Victoria. 

Fielding a squad of 13 players from Years 9–12, Girls Softball won their third premiership in just four years. 

“Winning the softball premiership means a lot to all of us because it shows how consistent and focused we were all season. We didn’t lose a single game, and that comes down to everyone doing their job and backing each other,” said Frini, Vice Captain.  

“Their commitment this year was excellent. They took on extra training in the holidays and all worked hard to do their part for the team,” said Nic Green, Head of Softball (Girls). 

“I’d also like to acknowledge the team and Polina Galkina, Assistant Coach and Ash Cavalin, Team Manager/Scorer,” he said. 

The Boys Volleyball capped off a brilliant season with a Grand Final win.  

“We had an incredible cohesive and committed team that was instrumental to our success. We only had three returning players and with young leadership from our Captain, Jack and Vice Captain Mackenzie, both in Year 11, we expected this to be a team development and rebuilding year,” commented Katelyn Deremiens, Head of Volleyball (Boys). 

Katelyn credited the team’s remarkable success to their supportive environment “which helped all the team members to thrive,” and a strong commitment to training. The team trained twice weekly with additional sessions held during the pre and off seasons.   

“Winning the grand final was a momentous achievement, it validated all the work and effort we put in through the season and in the holidays,” said Jack. 

Katelyn also praised the team spirit. “This team was a wonderful example of ‘we are better together’. Our Captains were also able to grow as leaders thanks to the support and trust within the team. It was truly a team effort.”