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.
We believe athletics should be a fun and friendly experience, plus also cater for those athletes who take things more seriously.
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!”
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.
More info to come.
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.
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.