We were delighted to welcome 92-year-old Old Collegian Kevin Opie (SPC 1949-52) back to the College this week.

Kevin was thrilled to walk the old hallways once again and see photos on the walls of his peers including some of his great schoolmates including Brownlow Medallist John James (SPC 1948-52) and talented runner John Deany (SPC 1949-53).

Kevin came to SPC as a boarder from the Melbourne suburb of Clifton Hill. He started in Sub-Intermediate A and completed his Matriculation.

During his walk, Kevin reminisced when walking past the old boarders dining room, tuckshop, and St Bernard Heinz Theatre, where movies were played on Saturday nights.

Kevin was still able to pinpoint some of his original classrooms, as well as his old dormitory, which is now the College library.

Kevin, pictured standing in his old dormitory, which is now the College Library. Kevin is holding a photo of how he remembers the space during his years as a student in the 1940-50s.

Kevin was a talented student, winning several music awards, who also loved playing sport.

Kevin was the cox in the First rowing crew in 1950.

 

Small in stature, Kevin was the perfect choice as a cox in the First crew in 1950. He was the stroke in the Second crew in 1951 and bow in the Second crew in 1952, which was beaten in a photo finish.

Kevin also played in the Second XVIII Football team and was a member of the Treacy House premiership team in the A Grade Competition.

 

He also enjoyed basketball, athletics and was a member of the Sodality of Our Lady.

After finishing school, Kevin went to teaching college with his fellow classmate John James and became a schoolteacher.

It was a delight to show Kevin, and his son Peter around the College and we thank them both for visiting us!