ABOUT OVA

Learn about the proud history of our club, including it's aims, events and focus.

CLUB HISTORY

The old virgilians association (OVA) have always had strong ties with students, dating back to the early 1930's.

OVA was founded early in the 1930's, by a small group of students with the intention of enjoying the sport of track and field and wanting to start an athletics club. Due to the war, the small numbers in the group meant that the club was disbanded in 1947.

In 1964 “Old Boys" of the College, Bob Hamilton and Harold Rennie -  together with the support of the Christian Brothers and athletes from the school - succeeded in fulfilling the original intention of the OVA Athletics Club.

Application for affiliation was made with the Southern Tasmanian Amateur Athletic Branch Old Virgilians Association Athletic Club which was duly granted. The club very quickly built up a membership of some 40 athletes. Early in the 1980’s women were granted membership and the club became what it is today.

Beyond 2010, the club decided to rebrand itself as the OVA Southern Saints, as a bid to retain the original club heritage and values but appeal to a wider range of members.

OUR BELIEF

We believe athletics should be a fun and friendly experience, plus also cater for those athletes who take things more seriously.

OUR AIM

Our aim is to provide opportunities and assistance to both male and female athletes and officials – of all ages and abilities – so they have every opportunity to reach their potential and achieve their goals. 

“The OVA Southern Saints continue to support me, in order to do my best and achieve my athletics goals!”

2024-25 Committee

President - Brendan Hanigan
Vice President -
Treasurer - Adrian Hatten
Secretary - Amanda Robertson

Committee Members: Nathan Morey, Allison Round, Ellie Doyle, Louise Walker, Quinten Van Camp and Teressa Hatten.

OUR EVENTS

OVA TAL PROFESSIONAL ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

More info to come.

REGULAR BBQ'S

As a social and fun-based club, we hold regular BBQ's for all members in the athletics community to enjoy. These are a great opportunity to reflect on the days competition, and often enjoy the summer Hobart sunshine. 

SOCIAL EVENTS

Athletics extends beyond the track and field, and often the OVA Southern Saints organise and help facilitate a handful of social nights which often include bowling and mini-golf; both of which are a hit with both our junior and senior members. 

image of 2014 winners from the race to the taste

Place getters from the 2014 Race to the Taste