De La Salle College Newsletter “A Catholic School for Boys in the Lasallian Tradition”

associate principal

Mr Dermot English

It's About the Love

Like many of you I have attended several funerals recently. Since the last newsletter our boys have had a number of bereavements, including boys who have lost parents. We feel for these families and for the boys who now have to live a life that will be different than before. This is the pattern of our lives, of this community, this readjustment of priorities and thoughts about how to live.

These are of course sad occasions and they each have their own circumstances and flavour, but there is something that they all share, that what is always mentioned is the love that was given and/or received by those who have passed away. Each funeral is a reminder that its about Love.

The challenge is to have our behaviour and the way we treat others reflect this truth. I find that it is helpful to assume that others are dealing with difficulties and so give them the benefit of the doubt when I’m annoyed with them. A second strategy is not to be too hard on ourselves when we aren’t perfect and make mistakes. I wish everyone who is grieving some peace and consolation.

Pastoral

Deputy Principal- Mr Elton Charles

Cell Phone and Media Use Advice

Encouraging responsible cell phone and social media use in teenage boys involves a combination of communication, setting boundaries, and being good role models. Here are some tips for parents:

1. Open Communication:

• Establish an open and non-judgmental line of communication. Make sure your teenager feels comfortable discussing their online experiences and concerns.
• Educate them about the potential risks and benefits of social media and cell phone use. Discuss topics such as online privacy, cyberbullying, and the impact of excessive screen time on mental health.

2. Set Clear Guidelines:

• Establish clear rules and expectations regarding cell phone and social media use. This might include guidelines for screen time, appropriate content, and the importance of respecting others online.
• Consider creating a family media agreement together, outlining expectations and consequences for misuse.

3. Lead by Example:

• Model healthy cell phone and social media behaviour. Demonstrate responsible device use and avoid spending excessive time on screens yourself.
• how them how to balance online and offline activities. Engage in family activities that don't involve screens to emphasize the importance of a well-rounded life.

4. Teach Digital Citizenship:

• Emphasize the importance of being a responsible digital citizen. Discuss the impact of online actions on others and the long-term consequences of inappropriate behavior.
• Encourage them to think critically about the information they encounter online and to question the reliability of sources.

5. Monitor Their Activity:

• While respecting their privacy, it's important to keep an eye on your teenager's online activities, especially if they are younger or new to social media. Familiarize yourself with the platforms they use and their privacy settings.
• Use parental control tools to set limits on screen time and block inappropriate content.

6. Encourage Offline Interactions:

• Encourage your teenager to balance online interactions with face-to-face interactions. Plan family activities, outings, or events that promote real-world connections.
• Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between the digital and physical worlds.

7. Promote Self-Regulation:

• Teach your teenager self-regulation and time management skills. Help them understand the importance of taking breaks, getting enough sleep, and engaging in physical activities.
• Encourage them to set their own limits on screen time and to be mindful of the content they consume.

8. Stay Informed:

• Keep yourself informed about the latest trends in social media and technology. This knowledge will help you guide your teenager through the ever-evolving digital landscape.
• Be aware of the apps and platforms they are using and discuss any new concerns or issues that may arise.

Remember, building trust and maintaining open lines of communication are crucial in guiding your teenager toward responsible cell phone and social media use. Regularly check in with them, ask about their online experiences, and address any concerns they may have.

sports

De La Salle Sport has had a busy couple of weeks.

• Our junior volleyball had three teams playing competitively, culminating in the Auckland Junior Champs on Wed, Thurs, Fri of this week.
• Our cricket team has been setting the foundation for future De La Salle cricket and were in a position to win all their games but just came up short each time.
• Waka Ama had a great regatta to get De La Salle Waka Ama back to it's original strengths, with our division 1 Junior boys winning gold too.
• Our Junior Boys Tag have qualified for Auckland Champs which is coming up and we're looking forward to the test.

Still a few sports to finish off the year and looking forward to ending off with a bang.

Auckland Blues Region Sevens Tournament

by Mr A Brown

The De La Salle Year 10, 7s team played in the Auckland Blues Region inaugural 7s tournament held at Bruce Pulman last Friday 10 November. The team was co–captained by Likati Tovia and Jacobshalom Lui. The rest of the team were Latu Enoka, Riley Tulisi–Apelu, Liam Fanolua, Kava Moa, Nokise Manulelea, Eneasi Fisiiahi, Ignatius Schmidt, Vince Lavea and Kohen Masoe coached by Mr Ramsay and Mr Brown.

The weather was warm from the very first game at 9.20 a.m. against Avondale College and became hotter throughout the day. This game was won by DLS- a 40 plus points win. The second game was against Pakuranga High School with another 40 plus points win. The final pool game was against our neighbours across the railway tracks, Kings College. A tougher game with Kings leading by two tries early in the first half. The team rallied together and some strong individual runs from Likati, Nokise and Vince helped us get closer to Kings score. Down by a try, Vince Lavea broke through the defence past the halfway line and chipped the ball ahead to superbly bounce into the hands of a fellow teammate who scored under the post. De La Salle win and advance to the semi-final against our fellow brother Catholic school, St Peters.

The semi-final was won convincingly by St Peters who went on to win the tournament, so DLS played MAGs in the 3rd/4th play-off game. This was a game not taken lightly by either team and treated it like a consolation final. MAGS scored early and went on to score two unanswered tries despite a good defensive effort by the DLS boys. In the second half, Nokise entered the game and scored a hat trick, and another try scored from DLS, snatching a win from behind to claim third spot for the inaugural Blues U15s, 7s tournament. Congratulations to all the players involved for their exciting attack and determined effort on defense particularly Ignatius Schmidt.

Thank you to our physio on the day, Julian. Also, sending our best wishes to co-captain Likati Tovia for a healthy recovery from an injury received on the day. Looking forward to seeing you back on the field next year.

Junior Tag

by Ms M Judd

The Year 9 tag team played against Mangere College, TKM Nga Tapuwae and Alfriston College. They just won against Aorere College and then went into a Plate game against Botany which they won. The outstanding player of the team was Taimo Fatai. Thanks to coach Mr Ualika.

The Year 10 tag team coached by Ms Judd and Mr Joynt won against Wesley College 6-4, Southern Cross Campus 4-2, Onehunga High 9-2 and then went into the quarter finals where they played Mangere College and won 6-1. The team now move onto the Auckland Champs, Wednesday 29 Nov

Year 10 team: James Ash Faulalo (captain), Blessing Elisala, Liam Fanolua, Ezekiel Filipi, Eneasi Fisiiahi (vice captain), Kaharau Gilbert, Jacobshalom Liu, Nokise Manuleleua, Kohen Masoe, Kava Moa, Jazaiah Mokalei, Ignatius Schmidt, Evander Su’a, Cyrus Tango, Richie Tukula