SLS Now Archive
Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
Christmas would not be complete at Shawnigan without the candlelight Chapel Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. We were honoured by the presence of many parents, grandparents and guests. Thank you for sharing this very special night with us.
To all of our students, have a great Christmas Break—we look forward to your return in January!
Photos by Stephen Lane
AP Quote-Off
Mr. Connolly’s and Mrs. Bell’s Pre-AP English 11 classes competed against each other in a challenging Quote-Off. Each student quoted from memory key lines of poetry selected from the 17 works studied in class thus far. In addition, they drew quotations from a hat and identified key details about each one.
The students were exceptionally well prepared for this tight competition which ended in a tie. We look forward to coming together again at the end of the second term for more literary sparring.
– Cari Bell
Farewell Gappies
On Tuesday, we said farewell as a School to our three "gappies" from down under: Emi Skopal, Rob Mardus and Alex Crowe. These three have been terrific in the role, helping in a multitude of ways and in so many different areas of school life and they have endeared themselves to both staff and students alike. They will now return to their native Australia to pursue their studies at university, but I'm sure that they will maintain the warm relationships that they have formed with so many here and they will be welcome back at any time. Thank you to them for all of their fine efforts—they have been way more than just 'fair dinkum'!
– David Robertson, Headmaster
Squash – Canadian Junior Open
This prestigious junior tournament was held in Montreal from December 12 -15. There were over 250 players from the following countries: Canada, USA, UK, Antigua, Bermuda, Brazil, Cayman Islands, Columbia, Ecuador, Egypt, Guatemala, Jamaica, Mexico, New Zealand, Singapore, Trinidad.
Shawnigan was proud to be represented by Christien Q. who had a very good tournament and was an excellent ambassador for the School. In the extremely tough and competitive Boys’ U19 division, Christien elevated the level of his game and made it through to the round of 16. Here he lost to a worthy opponent from Singapore, and then proceeded to play some good matches in the consolation round. Well done, Christien!
– Lynne Grass, Coach
Groves' Academics
Sonya D. recently took some great photos celebrating academic achievements in Groves'. Proud recipients of Spirit of Groves' certificates are recognized in various categories: Dean's, Honours and our famed "WOMENSA" group of girls with 90+ percent.
– Gaynor Stroebel, Groves' House Director
Grade 9 Round Table Gift Drive
The Grade 9 Round Table (Jonathan N., Rosa V., Shaughnelene S., Liam B., Kevin M., Ian K., Cameron B., Nicole C., and Lindsay M.), along with teachers, Mrs. Jennifer Hutchins and Mr. Jeff Williams, challenged Shawnigan students and staff to get together and donate gifts to 30 children and teenagers whose families use the Food Bank, and who had created a wish list for Christmas. It was a great success!
Thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Leary for delivering the presents and for taking the photos.
– Jennifer Hutchins
Leaving Speech
My very first impression of Shawnigan Lake School was hiking up and down hills in the freezing cold night while walking into the darkness. I had no clue where I was but I knew that it was thousands of miles from home.
So, I soon found out I would be living in Strathcona house with more than 50 girls. It did not take me long to realize that Strathcona was where it was all happening – a very lively bunch of girls.
I was told not long after I arrived that there were millions of Kangaroos were I live and students wondered if they could fly. An interesting question I thought as I sadly replied, “I think you are thinking of the wrong country.” Shortly after they asked me again. “So do you live anywhere near Canberra?” Once again, I said, “Wrong country.” I am actually from New Zealand!
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The LA Report — Sr. Boys Basketball
Sr. Boys Finish with a Blast - Sr. Boys Basketball team ended their trip on a winning note defeating Lou Dantzler High School 68-49. Shawnigan was lead by Shavaan S. and Pat E. with 23 points each. Wei C. played a strong game adding 9 pts. The team competed at a high level in every game during the trip and this bodes well for the new year. The team also would like to thank Dan B. for coming and cheering for the team this afternoon. The team would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas from a very warm LA.
Thursday - Game #2 (vs Santa Clara Saints) was a bit of an adventure for the team. Our usual two top scorers did not shoot well tonight, though some of the others did step up and we hit 7 3-pointers for the game. The 2nd quarter proved to be our nemesis, so by half we were down 10 points. The team turned things around in the 2nd half out scoring the Saints by 4, but ultimately lost the game 59-53. Pat led the way with 13 points.
This game was a tremendous learning experience for our boys as the opposition was very physical inside the paint and the refs were not making many calls. The boys are learning that they need to be mentally strong the entire game, and not just for part of it. Additionally, they are learning how important it is to play together and support each other. We play at 2:00pm on Friday vs Longdale High School, a team that looks quite athletic.
Wednesday - No game today, so the team worked on some prep in the morning and then headed down to Venice Beach (ie. Muscle Beach) to run through some plays on the outdoor courts. After a change of clothes we headed off to Rodeo Drive and then Hollywood.
Tuesday - The team played Locke Senior Secondary from Watts. Our boys played really hard and competed with their opponent throughout the game, but lost in the end 57-49. Top scorers were Patrick E. with 22, Shavaan S with 17, and Howard Y. with 8.
Following the game, the team was able to get free tickets to the UCLA Bruins vs New Mexico State game, which was played in the legendary Pauley Pavilion. Unfortunately, this game was not as intense as our game, but the team had a great time anyway.
– Darrin Austin, Director of Athletics
Jr. A Girls Basketball
The Junior A Girls Basketball team participated in the Cedar Spartans’ Jamboree last Saturday in Nanaimo. We played some really tough teams against some big girls. It was a good learning experience and we had lots of fun. After some hard–played games, we came 3rd place. We are presenting our trophy to Mr. Robertson.
– Kerrigan C. and Sydney H.
SnowFest 2009
Many of the grade twelves worked all Saturday afternoon to transform Marion Hall into the magical place that is SnowFest. What has now become an annual and much-anticipated event, SnowFest is without a doubt one of the best evenings of the year. With the Devan Bailey Big Band playing and an abundant array of decadent desserts and savory treats set out for sampling, students dance the night away in formal attire.
Photos by Yearbook
Shawnigan Children's Christmas
A Shawnigan Christmas would not be complete without a visit from the jolly old elf. Santa delighted the children at the Shawnigan Staff Children's Christmas Party. Mrs. Robertson and her crew of Prefect elves, worked very hard to keep the kids busy with gingerbread house building, Christmas bingo and other festive games until Santa's arrival.
Special thanks to Mrs. Robertson and Mrs. Pasquale for organizing this annual, much-loved event! And thanks also to SANTA for visiting us.
Photos by Jill Hutchison
International Week Stage Show
The School recently capped off International Week with a Friday night Stage Show. The tightly choreographed performances featured 18 acts enthusiastically presented by dozens of country representatives. The whole show lasted approximately an hour and a half. Most of it was filmed by a professional cameraman for future use in a new video about Shawnigan. Rather than wait with baited breath for that – this 12-minute edited version captures the spirit and flavour of the various acts, as well as the pride and pleasure our students have in sharing their culture and customs.
– Steve Housser
Sr. Girls Basketball vs Cedar
The Sr. Girls travelled to Cedar Secondary School on Thursday afternoon for an exhibition game. The girls started off very strong, hitting many of their attempts. However, as the second half started, things began to change for the girls. Although there were lots of opportunities to score, the ball would not go through the basket. The team ended up losing 51-40. Top performers were Kelly R. (5 points), Nicole C. (7 points), Martina C. and Savannah H. with 8 points each, and Emilie C. with 9 points.
– Darrin Austin, Director of Athletics
Café Cares for Needy
The Stag Café has made a commitment to donate a large part of the money earned from their operations to the Mill Bay Food Bank. Students at Shawnigan Lake School believe that the strength and compassion of a community are judged by how well the most unfortunate and needy are cared for. Food Banks are at the forefront of the battle to keep children and families fed.
Members of the Stag Café went down to the Mill Bay food Bank and presented a cheque to the Food Bank Director, Terry Eden. They were warmly welcomed and the Director shared some information about the operations of the Food Bank and also which members of our community were most in need of assistance. It was heartwarming for the students to learn first-hand that their efforts and hard work are indeed helping the local community.
With the help and support from students of Shawnigan Lake School, the Stag Café has already donated close to $4 000 to the Food Bank this year. Thank you for your support.
– Georg Stroebel, Business Education
Athletic Colours
This past term saw one of the worst starts to the sports year I have seen in my 19 years at Shawnigan Lake School. Because of the flu virus that ripped through the campus, our competitive teams were essentially two weeks behind their competition at the start of their seasons, missing important early season tournaments and games. From then on it was an up hill battle to improve, become competitive, and advance to the playoffs.
The School’s three main competitive programs in the fall – boys soccer, girls field hockey, and girls volleyball – all managed to peak at the right time, saving their best for when it counted. The result was that the Sr. Girls Volleyball team upset some teams at the Island Championships and advanced to the quarterfinals; the Sr. Field Hockey team narrowly qualified for the Provincials, but then upset some quality programs during the BC tournament; and the Sr. Boys Soccer team once again beat some of the Island’s better programs to advance to the Provincials for the 2nd year in a row.
Mixed around these team achievements were countless individual achievements and successes. We are recognizing those athletes who participated in our competitive programs and have demonstrated themselves to be the best in their sport. These students will be awarded Athletic School Colours.
– Darrin Austin, Director of Athletics
Search and Rescue on the Koksilah
This year's SAR team recently underwent its baptism in the Koksilah River. Recent floodwaters had receded and levels were down to normal for this time of year. Despite drysuits and neoprene gloves it was a particularly close encounter of the cold kind (it was difficult to find secure footing on any rocks we splashed in passing because they so quickly glazed over in solid ice).
– Peter Yates, SAR Instructor
Photos by Julie Kelly and Peter Yates
Chapel Music
Many of us have seen and heard this grade 12 student on stage in our school musicals, so we know what a wonderful singer she is. What some of the Shawnigan community may not know is that she also has a wonderful talent for classical singing. She is currently preparing for her Grade 9 Royal Conservatory of Music exam, which she will take in January. She is learning six pieces in varied styles and in five languages—Italian, German, French, English, and Latin. In Chapel, she sang one of the songs she is preparing; an Aria from Bach's Magnificat entitled "Quia Respexit."
– Shannon Bryant, Director of Music
Return of the Coho
The return of coho started earlier than usual this year with heavy rains in late October bringing in large numbers to the mouth of Shawnigan Creek—and into the trap constructed by the Mill Bay Enhancement Society. E-Club members and Environmental Science 11 students at various times over the last few weeks assisted in the trapping and transporting of the returning spawners up into the Shawnigan watershed. In the end, record numbers were moved this year (nearly 1300!). In addition, SLS received its brood stock for this year from the Shawnigan Creek run—14 males and 14 females in total. As these fish matured (ripened), egg and milt 'takes' were then carried out by Science 9 classes, E-Club members and Environmental Science students over a period of two weeks. Now, approximately 19000 fertilized coho eggs are incubating in our hatchery.
But what is really cool is that we have also witnessed the migration and natural spawning of some of the lifted coho in Hartl Creek—right on our campus! One of the best viewing spots was from the bridge crossing to Strathcona House.
With all the disappointing news of record low returns to rivers and streams in the Georgia Basin, in 2009 Shawnigan Creek was an exception.
– Scott Noble
Squash Update
Christien Q. is leaving today for Montreal where he will play in the Canadian Junior Open Squash Tournament. He will compete in the Open Division of the Boys' Under 19 Event.
Good Luck, Christien!
– Lynne Grass, Coach
Sr. Boys vs. Gulf Islands
The Sr. Boys Basketball Team sailed over to Salt Spring Island for our annual league game. Shawnigan came out running
and gunning from the start and never let down throughout the game posting a 90-54 victory. We were lead by Pat E. with 24 pts. and Will T. coming in off the bench with an impressive career high of 17 pts. Luis O. was solid once again chipping in with 14 pts. and 10 rebounds. Thanks to Mr. Hall for braving the cold to watch our game. Next on the agenda for the Sr. team is sunny California as the team is playing in the Windward School Classic in L.A., Dec. 15 - 21. Buon Natale!
– Vito Pasquale, Coach
Chapel Music
The Shawnigan Wind Ensemble made its debut on Saturday in Chapel. Eight dedicated musicians have been working diligently in the past two weeks, to prepare for both the Chapel performance and the Hospice fund-raising dinner held the following day in Marion Hall. They performed a stirring Ave Maria, composed by the 19th century French composer, Gounod. Anytime musicians double on parts, as happened in this piece, they must be very acutely aware of both intonation and articulation when playing. These musicians were "bang on" on both counts. We will be hearing more from this talented and passionate group as the year rolls along, so stay tuned. Thank you to Mr. Dukelow and the Hospice organizing committee for the performance opportunity.
– Ralph Fraser
Photos by Stephen Lane
The University Train
The Canadian university "train" rolled into Shawnigan on Tuesday evening, bringing with it representatives from 38 universities across the country. Students in grade 11 and 12 at Shawnigan were invited to browse through the stalls set up with information and to talk to the university liaison officers. The splash of colour made by the banners created an air of excitement as students asked questions, collected print materials, and got a sense of some of the unique features of different institutions, from the University of Victoria in B.C., all the way across the country to Memorial University in Newfoundland.
– Beth Hall, University Guidance
Sr. Boys Basketball Tournament
Thursday Dec. 3 vs. Ladysmith - In a hard fought game against the defending Island Champions, Shawnigan lost 70-57 after being up at the end of the third quarter. Shawnigan was lead by Pat E. with 24 points and Howard Y. with 7 points.
Friday Dec. 4 vs. Alberni - We welcomed Shavaan in his first game back this season by defeating a depleted Alberni team 99-35. Top scorers were Shavaan with 29 points, Pat E. added 18 point and Wei C. chipped in an additional 15 points.
Sat. Dec. 5 vs. SMUS - In an early morning game, Shawnigan lost a tough battle vs. SMUS 63-57 after leading most of the game. Discipline in the 4th quarter came into question and we let our lead slip away. Pat E. lead Shawnigan with 20 points and Lukas B. contributed 10 points.
– Vito Pasquale, Coach
Sr. Ice Hockey
Our team played a very prepared and game-ready BCS Squad. Though our competitive spirit was alive and well, we knew that our cardio-vascular fitness would be a limiting factor, compared to our opponent’s deep bench. Further, this was the first opportunity the entire team skated together, so our overall team-concept was under-developed and untested at this time. After a solid beginning it appeared this game was going to be a hard-fought, low-scoring affair with both teams applying significant pressure but not scoring. Towards the end of the first period, first game jitters seemed to be hindering us. Players stopped moving their feet and started taking some momentum-sapping penalties, which yielded a 5-on-3 for our opponents. Ben M. had to make some incredible saves to keep us in the game until the period end, in which BCS scored as their power play ended to take a 1-0 lead.
After striking first in the second, to tie the game, we were pleased with our response. However, our opponents rallied, and they deserve credit for capitalizing on our lapses to keep the puck in our end. The likelihood of an SLS win was slowly slipping away due to poor clearing attempts, errant passes, and lost focus. In future, our second period play will need to be better to put victory within reach.
The final period of play saw a resurgence in our team energy and we were pleased with our commitment to chip away at their lead. As a result, we were better defensively, keeping our opponents off the score sheet, and we scored the only goal in the third period to end on a productive note.
Paul Morris, Coach
Photos by David Hutchison
The Stag Café
The Stag Café has opened this year with a new group of Entrepreneurship 12 students at the helm. Judging by the energy and enthusiasm that is clearly evident, this year will be an exciting and interesting journey.
The Stag Café is managed and controlled by the Entrepreneurship 12 students who each have a turn at being CEO for the evening and to make sure the food is prepared and served according to the standards our customers are used to. Every student has completed the Ministry of Health's required FoodSafe course and is certified to serve food to the public.
Under the watchful eyes of their teacher, Mr. Stroebel, students prepare a feast of hamburgers, panini sandwiches, chicken strips, fries, milkshakes, chicken burgers, and smoothies to eager students every Tuesday and Friday evening from 8:30 to 9:30. As usual, the kitchen is filled with blaring music and high energy while the Staggers work and focus on the task at hand. Shawnigan students flock to the Ritz to eat or just to socialize and have a break from their studies.
Photos by Georg Stroebel
A La Claire Fontaine
Mr. Linn’s French 8 class serenaded the Headmaster in his study recently with “A La Claire Fontaine.”
Thanks to Mia Bolton for filming this performance.
Students Win Legion Contest
Four Grade 9 Social Studies students got a surprise during class when they received prizes for their entries in the local Legion’s Remembrance Day contest.
Geoff S. won first prize for his poem, Grace M. won first for her colour poster, and Rosa V. and Juliet M. won first and second prizes for their black and white posters. The entries for this annual contest had to include symbols depicting Canada, war and peace explained Mr. Bill Cairns who presented the certificates and cash prizes on behalf of the Royal Canadian Legion Malahat Branch 134. All the first place works will now compete at the district level and could eventually go all the way to Ottawa to be judged at the national levels.
First Jr. Ice Hockey Result
Our team played a very good Mt. Prevost Squad, who dressed 4 full lines of experienced skaters. Our competitive spirit was alive and well, even though this game was our first time assembled together on the ice. After a slow beginning and some minor adjustments, the Jr. team began to play a tighter defensive game but were no match for our offensively minded opponents.
SLS goals were scored with a tremendous individual effort by Evan B., and a tip by Max K. after a good point shot by Danny H., nicely fed by Sydney E.. Final score: 10-2.
– Paul Morris, Coach
International Week Closing
The Closing International Week Chapel service was Multi-Faith. Students said prayers and readings from many different faiths and in many different languages. We heard a beautiful, ancient Chinese harp and one of our staff children lit a traditional Advent candle. Mr. Holland’s sermon spoke of the importance of our diversity and he ended it thusly:
“In the short time I have been at Shawnigan we have had many important moments together, many of them in this chapel, but I have never experienced a sense of community more than at last night’s International Week Stage Show. Last night we laughed together, our jaws dropped together, and we sat in awe together at the talent, the beauty and the diversity of our little microcosm of the world. What an irony really; the night that we all strut our differences, is the night that we are most one. I think the question of why should we bother with our past was answered on that stage last night and I hope in this chapel this morning. A world without traditional dance and song and a world without the Bible, the Koran, the Gita, would be a grim place indeed. I am thankful to be part of this community where that is not the case.”
After Chapel, the Shawnigan Concert Band played in Marion Hall and the School thanks them for their amazing music.
Jenny Ferris, thank you for orchestrating International Week and giving us so much to be proud of and so many wonderful memories.
Photos by Stephen Lane
BC Open Squash Championships
Vancouver, 25-27 November - Justin M. played excellent squash to win the Men's B draw in a very competitive event. This is a AAAA Tournament and one of the biggest of the year. Despite being down in some of his matches he showed composure, listened to his coach and executed.
This means that Justin will in the future play in the Men’s A division. Well done on an outstanding weekend!
Christien Q. played well in his first match, but was beaten by the eventual winner of the A draw, Michael T. Christien played a very disciplined game, but at the end of the day, he lost to a worthy opponent who is at the next level and is able to grind out every point.
Andy L. played very good squash. When he came off court between games, he listened to the coaching strategies offered, and went back on court to execute them to the best of his ability. He has made great improvements over the past couple of months, and should be happy with his wins. He was the runner-up in the Men’s C Consolation event.
Shawnigan Intern, Ashley Clackson, played in the prestigious Women’s Open event. She had a very good tournament, beating the Canadian no. 2 player in her final match to finish 3rd overall.
All in all, this was a most successful weekend. Grateful thanks go to Brian McGaw for driving and coaching the boys. Shawnigan is fortunate to have such a committed and qualified parent.
– Lynne Grass, Coach
International Week Stage Show
Friday night’s International Week Stage Show was a brilliant showcase of talent and fun. Over 210 students and staff members from 18 of our country groups participated and the entire School was able to watch in the new Studio Theatre. Morgan McLeod, our Stage Show director, was ably assisted by Lucas C., Emma V., and Takeshi B. Near the very end of our International Week, this penultimate event brought the School together to celebrate our truly international community.
Photos by Stephen Lane
Traditional English Tea
The England country group put on a traditional English tea in “Ye Olde School Tea Shoppe,” otherwise known as the front foyer. Tea was served in bone china teacups by immaculate wait staff and guests sampled a variety of treats: scones with jam and clotted cream as well as egg and cress, salmon, and cucumber sandwiches. England called the experience “a return to the gracious life.” Thanks especially to the organizer, Rosemary Dolman.
Photos by Stephen Lane
National Costumes
On Friday of International Week, students and staff dressed in National Costumes. It made for a colourful campus!
Photos by Stephen Lane and Margot Allen
Multilingual Evensong
A Multilingual Evensong service offered a contemplative pause during International Week festivities. The Chapel was lit with paper lanterns made by each country group and the service included a Russian Prayer, a hymn sung in English and Japanese, and the Lord’s Prayer recited by 17 students with each line in a different language. The choir closed this reflective evening with a beautiful rendition of a Chinese folk song. The School then processed out to the Kaye Gardens to watch the launch of a grand Scandinavian lantern (Viking Ship).
– Caryl Worden
Photos by Stephen Lane
Sr. Boys VIBC Tournament
The Senior Boys Basketball team defeated Highlands 97-70 in their season opener at the VIBC tournament in Victoria on Thursday afternoon. With a very small bench, all eight players had to contribute significant minutes to the win. Luis O. scored 14 points and led the way
with 16 rebounds while Pat E. poured in a game-high 36 points. Adrien H., Wei-Yu C. and Howard Y. scored 15, 13 and 11 points respectively.
On Friday, the team moved into the quarter-finals against Wellington. They were within 5 points at the end of the third quarter, but were defeated 67-91 at the end of regulation.
Shawnigan split their remaining two games on Saturday. In the win over Windsor 87-70, Luis scored 15 points and was 90% from the foul line. Wei contributed 18 points and Pat an additional 30 points. Ethan C. and Will T. scored 9 points each in the 61-78 loss to Seaquam.
Pat E. was selected to the tournament All-Star team with an average of 28 points per game.
The team hosts Brentwood College in their league opener on Tuesday at 5:00pm in the new Shawnigan Sportsplex.
– Cathy Pasquale