SPORT AT DOWNLANDS

Downlands College offers a robust athletics program designed for every stage of a student’s journey. Students from Prep to Year 4 may participate in introductory Track & Field training sessions that focus on developing foundational movement skills, coordination, and a love for athletics. These enjoyable and supportive sessions introduce basic running, jumping, and throwing through age-appropriate games and activities.

From Years 5 to 12, students are eligible to represent Downlands College at local, regional, and state competitions. Training for these students involves multiple sessions per week with structured, event-specific programming to refine technique, boost speed and endurance, and set individual athletic goals. 

COMPETITIONS

Our athletics calendar is anchored by two events where students test their abilities against high-level competition:

• QCIS Track & Field Championships: As a key member of the Queensland Country Independent Schools (QCIS) network, Downlands competes annually in this regional showcase, bringing together the leading independent schools from across the area.
• Queensland All Schools Track & Field Championships: Taking place during the Term 3 holidays, this event allows our athletes to compete on a broader stage against the best talent in the state.

PREPARATION MEETS

To ensure our athletes are ready for major competition, we host various "mini meets" throughout the season. These events provide essential practice and race experience in a supportive environment.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Prep to Year 4

Students attend one training session per week, with an emphasis on basic running mechanics, simple jumping and throwing fundamentals, coordination, balance, and general fitness. Sessions are designed to be fun and engaging, using age-appropriate games and movement activities to encourage participation and enjoyment.

Years 5–12

Training increases in frequency, with multiple sessions held each week. Programs become more structured and event-specific, focusing on speed and endurance development, technique refinement across sprints, middle distance, jumps, and throws, as well as strength, mobility, and event-specific conditioning. Individual goal setting and performance preparation are key aspects at these year levels.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

Pre-season training begins in Term 2, allowing students to build conditioning, sharpen event-specific techniques, and prepare both physically and mentally for the Track & Field season ahead.

Downlands College offers a comprehensive Australian Football program focused on developing athletic skills, game intelligence, and effective teamwork. Our program prepares students for competitive play within the regional AFL league.

PROGRAM STRUCTURE

Age Groups

The program is centred around Under 17 Boys and Under 17 Girls teams. Younger secondary students may be considered for participation based on an assessment of their ability and suitability for the competition level.

TRAINING SCHEDULE

Team Training

One weekly session on the court dedicated to skill development, tactical understanding, and implementing team structures.

Strength & Conditioning (S&C)

An optional weekly session is available to all players. This session is designed to improve overall fitness, build strength, and assist with injury prevention.

SEASON DETAILS

Pre-Season Preparation

Training commences early in Term 1. This pre-season period allows players to build match fitness and develop cohesion as a team before the official competition begins.

Competition Fixtures

Our teams compete in the Darling Downs AFL Under 17.5 Competition. The season runs throughout Term 1, with regular weekly games against other clubs in the region, starting from mid-term.

Downlands College offers a dynamic basketball program designed to develop skills, teamwork, and game intelligence across all age groups. Whether students are just starting out or looking to refine their competitive edge, our program provides the coaching and structure needed to succeed on the court.

TEAMS & AGE GROUPS

We field teams across a wide range of divisions, catering to both junior and senior students.

• Junior Mixed: Under 10 and Under 12
• Boys & Girls: Under 14, Under 16, and Under 19

Please note: Age group divisions are subject to change based on the decisions of the Toowoomba Basketball Association.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Our training program is designed to build confident, capable players through consistent practice and physical preparation.

Weekly Team Training

Every team participates in one focused training session per week. These sessions cover:

• Core Skills: Dribbling, passing, shooting, and defensive techniques.
• Strategy: Learning offensive and defensive team structures.
• Game IQ: Developing court awareness and cohesive teamwork.

Strength & Conditioning (S&C)

Secondary students have access to an additional weekly S&C session. While optional, attendance is highly encouraged to help students enhance their athletic performance, improve fitness, and reduce the risk of injury.

SEASON STRUCTURE

Pre-Season

Preparation begins early in Term 1. This crucial period allows players to build fitness, establish team chemistry, and sharpen technical skills before competition commences.

Competition Season

The official season runs throughout Term 2 and Term 3. Downlands teams compete in the Toowoomba Basketball Association Competition, featuring weekly fixtures against other schools and clubs in the region. These games provide valuable competitive experience in a fun and inclusive environment.

Downlands College offers a cricket program for students from Year 3 to Year 12. Whether your child is picking up a bat for the first time or aiming for the First XI, our program provides a structured pathway to develop skills, teamwork, and a love for the game.

AGE GROUPS & DIVISIONS

We cater to all skill levels through the Toowoomba Cricket Incorporated (TCI) competition structure. Teams are entered into divisions based on age and ability to ensure appropriate development and competitive balance.

Junior Pathways (Years 3–9)

• Stage 1 Blue: Years 3–5 (Beginners)
• Stage 1 Red: Years 5–6 (Beginners)
• Stage 2 Blue: Years 6–7
• Stage 2 Red: Years 7–9

Senior & Open Competitions

• Stage 3: Years 8–10
• D Grade & C Grade: Open to all age groups based on ability

School Representative Teams

In addition to club fixtures, we select representative teams for school-based competitions:

• First XI (Open)
• Under 15 Teams

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Our training program is designed to build technical proficiency and match awareness.

• Stage 1 Teams: One session per week focusing on fundamental skills, teamwork, and game understanding.
• Stage 2 & Above: Two sessions per week dedicated to technical refinement, tactical skills, match awareness, and team structures.

Strength & Conditioning (S&C)

Secondary students have access to an optional weekly S&C session. Attendance is encouraged to help athletes enhance performance, build resilience, and prevent injury.

SEASON STRUCTURE

Pre-Season Preparation

Preparation begins at the end of Term 3. This block allows players to build physical conditioning and refine techniques before the first ball is bowled. We carefully manage training loads to support students participating in multiple sports and minimise fatigue.

Competition Season

The TCI season spans Term 4 and Term 1.

• Weekly Fixtures: Regular matches against other schools and local clubs provide valuable competitive experience in a supportive environment.
• Representative Fixtures: Our First XI and Under 15 teams participate in additional fixtures against GPS and local schools, including one-day matches and the QCIS T20 competition.

Downlands College offers a structured Cross Country program designed to build endurance, resilience, and a love for running. From introductory sessions for our youngest students to competitive pathways for senior athletes, our program supports every runner in reaching their personal best.

AGE GROUPS & PROGRESSION

Prep to Year 4: Foundations of Running

Students in these year levels are introduced to the sport through specialized training sessions.

• Focus: Developing basic running techniques, coordination, and general fitness.
• Approach: Fun, age-appropriate drills and activities designed to build confidence and enjoyment.

Year 5 to Year 12: Competitive Development

As students progress, they become eligible to represent Downlands College in competitions and trials at local, regional, and state levels.

• Focus: Building aerobic capacity, speed endurance, and race strategy.
• Opportunity: Pathways to represent the College on broader competitive stages.

TRAINING SCHEDULE

Consistent preparation is key to improvement in distance running. Our training schedule is designed to accommodate different age groups and ability levels.

• Prep to Year 4: One session per week.
• Year 5 to Year 12: Two sessions per week, featuring structured programs to enhance cardiovascular fitness and stamina.

SEASON STRUCTURE

Pre-Season Preparation

Training commences at the end of Term 1. This crucial period allows students to build their conditioning base and refine their race technique well before the competitive season begins.

Key Competitions

A highlight of our calendar is the Queensland Country Independent Schools (QCIS) Championships. This major annual event brings together schools from across the region, providing our students with the opportunity to perform at a high standard while representing the College with pride.

Downlands College’s soccer program helps students of all ages develop their skills, work as a team, and compete in regional events. Players enjoy a supportive environment focused on growth, sportsmanship, and game success.

COMPETITIONS & AGE GROUPS

We enter mixed teams from Under 6 to Under 15 in the Football Queensland – Darling Downs Competition, and offer two Schoolgirls divisions (Years 7–9 and 10–12) in the Darling Downs Schoolgirls Competition.

Football Queensland – Darling Downs Competition: Mixed teams compete in age groups from Under 6 to Under 15.

• Under 6 to Under 13
• Under 15

Team entries depend on sign-ups, and some age groups may be combined.

Darling Downs Schoolgirls Competition: Female students can join Schoolgirls teams in Years 7–9 or Years 10–12 divisions.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT 

Training focuses on developing all-around skills, teamwork, and game awareness.

Each team trains once a week, focusing on core skills, team tactics, and overall fitness.

• Technical Skills: Passing, dribbling, shooting, and defending.
• Game Sense: Developing team structure, tactics, and on-field awareness.
• Fitness: Improving physical fitness and coordination.

Strength & Conditioning (S&C): Secondary students can join a weekly session to boost fitness and reduce injury risk.

SEASON STRUCTURE

Pre-Season

Training begins early in Term 1 to build fitness, sharpen skills, and form teams ahead of the season.

Competition Season

• Football Queensland – Darling Downs (U13 & U15): The season runs across Terms 1, 2, and 3, with fixtures starting late in Term 1.
• MiniRoos (U6–U11): This competition runs throughout Term 2 and Term 3.
• Darling Downs Schoolgirls: Fixtures are played on Monday afternoons during Term 2 and Term 3.

Downlands College offers a fast-paced futsal program that focuses on developing technical skill, agility, and tactical intelligence. Our teams compete in several key regional tournaments, providing students with excellent opportunities to test their abilities and represent the College.

COMPETITIONS & AGE GROUPS

We enter teams into a variety of competitions throughout the year, with age groups organised to suit different events.

• Darling Downs Schoolboys & Schoolgirls Competitions: Under 13, Under 15 & Under 18
• South-West Queensland Futsal Championships: Under 10, Under 11, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 & Under 18

Additional teams may be formed based on student interest and sign-up numbers.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Weekly Team Training

Each team participates in one focused training session per week, covering:

• Technical Skills: Dribbling, first touch, passing, and shooting.
• Tactical IQ: Learning team structures and on-court awareness.
• Fitness: Building agility, coordination, and game-specific stamina.

Strength & Conditioning (S&C)

Secondary students can attend an optional weekly S&C session. This is a great opportunity to improve overall athletic performance, build strength, and reduce the risk of injury.

SEASON & COMPETITION STRUCTURE

Pre-Season

Training commences early in Term 1. This period allows players to build their fitness, refine skills, and establish team chemistry before the competition season begins.

Key Competitions

• Darling Downs Schoolboys & Schoolgirls Competitions: This tournament runs throughout Term 1 with weekly fixtures against other schools, promoting teamwork and skill development in a competitive format.
• South-West Queensland Futsal Championships: This is a major one-day regional event. Teams that perform well can earn qualification for the State Championships held in Term 3, providing a pathway to higher-level competition.

Downlands College offers a comprehensive netball program for students from Prep to Year 12, focusing on skill development, teamwork, and competitive spirit. Our structured pathways ensure players are placed in suitable teams to challenge and support their growth.

AGE GROUPS & PATHWAYS

Teams are graded by age and skill, with trials held from Under 11s upwards.

• Net, Set, and Go (≤10 years): Focuses on fundamental skills and enjoyment.
• Junior Teams (U11, U12, U13): Graded into A and B divisions based on skill.
• Cadets (Ages 14–18): Graded by ability, not strictly by age, for balanced teams.
• Senior High-Performance Teams: Junior A & B (Years 7–9), First VII & Second VII (Opens). The First & Second VII compete on Wednesdays. Junior A/B players must also play Saturdays.

Boys are welcome to play in the Saturday competition (max 3 per team on court). 

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

• Net: A 7-week Saturday program focused on fun and participation.
• Set and Go: One weekly training session.
• U11, U12, U13: One court session and one compulsory skills/conditioning session weekly.
• Cadets: One court session, one compulsory skills/conditioning session, plus optional S&C sessions weekly.
• Senior Wednesday Teams: Two court sessions, one compulsory skills/conditioning session, and two compulsory S&C sessions weekly.

SEASON & COMPETITIONS

Pre-Season: Begins at the start of Term 4, focusing on foundational skills and conditioning. Training loads are managed to accommodate students in other sports.

Competition Season: Downlands teams compete in the Toowoomba Netball Association fixtures throughout Term 2 and Term 3.

• Saturday Competition: For all age groups.
• Wednesday Night Competition: For our Senior High-Performance teams.

Downlands College has a proud rugby tradition, offering a comprehensive program for students aged 10 to 18. Our focus is on developing skilled, disciplined, and respectful players through a structured pathway that supports athletes from junior development right through to the prestigious First XV.

AGE GROUPS & PATHWAYS

Teams are graded based on age, skill, and development needs to ensure every player is appropriately challenged. Trials are conducted for teams from Under 11 to Opens, with selections based on performance, attitude, and commitment. This structure provides a clear progression for players to advance their technical, tactical, and physical abilities at every stage of their rugby journey.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Our training program is designed to build complete athletes with a strong emphasis on player welfare and academic balance.

• Under 11 & Under 12: Two field sessions per week during Terms 2 and 3, focusing on core skills like catching, passing, tackling, and teamwork.
• Under 13 to Under 18: Term 1: Two gym sessions weekly for strength, mobility, and conditioning. Terms 2 & 3: A comprehensive schedule of two field sessions and two gym sessions per week, integrating advanced skills, tactical systems, and physical development.

All players have access to our professionally supervised Strength and Conditioning program to enhance performance, build resilience, and prevent injury.

SEASON & COMPETITION STRUCTURE

Pre-Season Preparation

Our pre-season is staggered to ensure peak performance and manage player workloads.

The First XV, U14, and U16 squads commence training in Term 1.

All other age groups begin throughout Term 2.

Pre-season includes specialist skills sessions, conditioning, and team-based training.

Competition Season

Throughout Term 2 and Term 3, Downlands competes in high-quality fixtures against a range of leading GPS and AIC schools across Southeast Queensland. The 1st and 2nd XV squads also play trial matches in Term 1 to prepare for the season ahead.

These weekly fixtures provide a platform for players to refine their skills in a competitive environment that embodies the Downlands brand of rugby—built on discipline, teamwork, respect, and pride in the jersey.

Downlands College’s Girls Rugby 7s program supports players aged 12 to 18 at all levels, from beginners to elite performers, and offers clear pathways to regional, state, and national representation.

AGE GROUP & PATHWAYS

Teams are graded by age, skill, and experience to ensure each player is placed for optimal learning and performance.

• Eligibility: Girls aged 12 to 18 years.
• Trials: Held for teams from Under 13 through to Opens. Selections are based on skill execution, game understanding, attitude, and commitment.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Training focuses on speed, agility, decision-making, teamwork, and physical conditioning essential for Rugby 7s.

Participation & Development (B Teams)

• Schedule: Two field sessions per week during Terms 2, 3, and 4.
• Focus: Fundamental skills, contact technique, and tactical understanding.
• Conditioning: One optional Strength & Conditioning (S&C) session weekly.

Performance Squads (A Teams)

• Schedule: Two field sessions per week focusing on technical, tactical, and unit-based development.
• Conditioning: Two compulsory S&C sessions per week during Terms 1, 2, and 3.
• Extras: Additional skills and recovery sessions are scheduled during peak competition periods.

SEASON STRUCTURE

Pre-Season Preparation

Pre-season builds core 7s skills—passing, tackling, support play, and fitness—while also developing leadership, resilience, and team culture.

• Catch-pass under pressure
• Tackle confidence and breakdown technique
• Support play and attack shape
• Fitness testing and athletic profiling

Beyond physical skills, pre-season focuses on developing leadership, resilience, and a positive team culture to prepare for the busy schedule ahead.

Competition Season

Girls Rugby 7s teams compete in local, regional, and state tournaments across Terms 2, 3, and 4, offering regular match experience and opportunities for skill development and progression.

The Downlands College Swimming program is designed for competitive swimmers looking to refine their technique, build fitness, and excel in interschool and representative competitions.

AGE GROUPS & ELIGIBILITY

Our competitive swimming squad is open to students from Year 5 through to open age groups (typically born in 2016 or earlier). The program is tailored for confident swimmers who are ready to take their performance to the next level.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

To be part of the competitive squad, swimmers must be able to comfortably swim 50 metres of a recognisable stroke. This program is focused on performance development, not learning to swim.

• Schedule: Swimmers in Years 5 to 12 attend three compulsory pool sessions per week.
• Focus: Training is dedicated to refining stroke technique, improving race fitness, and preparing for key events.

SEASON & COMPETITIONS

Pre-Season Training

Preparation begins at the start of Term 4. This early start allows swimmers to build a strong fitness base and work on technical skills ahead of the main competition season.

Key Competitions

A highlight of the swimming calendar is the Queensland Country Independent Schools (QCIS) Swimming Championships. This major annual event brings together top swimmers from regional independent schools and serves as a key selection trial for further representative honours.

Downlands College offers a dynamic Touch Football program for boys and girls from Under 6 to Under 18. Our program focuses on developing technical skills, tactical awareness, and teamwork in a supportive environment, with pathways for both participation and elite competition.

AGE GROUP & COMPETITIONS

• Toowoomba Touch Football Competition: We enter mixed, boys, and girls teams from Under 6 to Under 18.
• Representative Tournaments: Our Under 18 Boys and Girls teams compete in the Swans Cup and the Queensland All Schools Championships.

Selections for tournament teams are based on performance and commitment during the regular season.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

• Weekly Session: All teams have one field training session per week focusing on skills (passing, catching, rucking), tactics, and fitness.
• Strength & Conditioning (S&C): Secondary students are encouraged to attend an optional weekly S&C session to improve athletic performance and reduce injury risk.

SEASON & FIXTURES

• Pre-Season: Begins late in Term 3 to build fitness, skills, and team combinations.
• Competition Season: The Toowoomba Touch Football season runs across Term 4 and Term 1, providing weekly games against local schools and clubs.
• Major Tournaments: Swans Cup (Term 3), SWQ All Schools (Term 3), Queensland All Schools Championships (Term 4).

Downlands College offers a volleyball program for boys and girls in Years 7 to 12. Our program is designed to develop individual skills, tactical understanding, and teamwork, catering to players from beginner to competitive levels.

AGE GROUPS & TEAMS

• Eligibility: Boys and girls from Year 7 to Year 12.
• Competition: Teams are entered into the Toowoomba Volleyball Association Competition.
• Grading: Players are graded based on age, experience, and ability to ensure they are placed in a challenging and supportive team environment.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

• Weekly Session: All teams participate in one weekly court session focusing on key skills (serving, passing, setting, spiking), game systems, and team communication.
• Strength & Conditioning (S&C): Secondary students are encouraged to attend an optional weekly S&C session to improve athletic performance and reduce injury risk.

SEASON & COMPETITIONS

• Pre-Season: Training commences late in Term 1, allowing players to develop fundamental skills, learn team rotations, and build cohesion before the season starts.
• Competition Season: The Toowoomba Volleyball Association competition runs throughout Term 2, offering weekly fixtures against other local schools and clubs. These matches provide consistent opportunities for players to improve their skills in a competitive setting.

Downlands College offers a dynamic Water Polo program for boys and girls from Year 7 to Year 12. Our program encourages participation and skill development for players of all levels, from beginners to competitive athletes.

AGE GROUPS & TEAMS

• Eligibility: Boys and girls from Year 7 to Year 12.
• Competition: We enter mixed teams into the Toowoomba Water Polo Association Competition.
• Grading: Students are graded based on age, experience, and ability to ensure they are placed in a team environment that promotes learning, challenge, and enjoyment.

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

• Weekly Session: Each team participates in one pool training session per week, focusing on technical skills (passing, shooting, defending), tactical positioning, and swimming fitness.
• Strength & Conditioning (S&C): Secondary students are encouraged to attend an optional weekly S&C session to enhance fitness and reduce injury risk.

SEASON & COMPETITIONS

• Pre-Season: Training begins late in Term 3 to develop fundamental skills, match awareness, and team cohesion.
• Competition Season: The Toowoomba Water Polo Association Competition runs across Term 4 and Term 1. Weekly fixtures against local schools and clubs provide consistent match experience in a fast-paced and inclusive environment.