A shared connection across generations on Number 1 Oval 

More than four decades separate them, but for Brad Pillinger (’83) and Brock Prideaux (’25), there is a shared moment that connects their time at Trinity. 

Mr Pillinger was among the earliest Trinitarians selected in the Australian Schoolboys Rugby team, achieving the honour in 1983. Mr Prideaux is among the School’s recent representatives, part of a continuing tradition of Trinity students earning national selection. 

Bringing them together overlooking Number 1 Oval offers a glimpse of how that achievement—and the journey behind it—continues across generations of Trinity boys. 

For Pillinger, the Oval was central to everything. 

“It was a hive of activity, and we were here a lot,” he reflected. 

From early inspiration as a young student watching older teams, through to captaining both the 1st XV and 1st XI, his time on the field laid the foundation for a rugby career that would extend well beyond school. 

Yet, for all that followed, those early experiences remain defining. 

“It taught persistence and perseverance… that gets you where you want to go,” he said.

For Prideaux, the journey is far more recent, but the experience is strikingly familiar. 

Having graduated only last year, he describes the Oval as the centre of his school life. 

“I was here every lunchtime, every afternoon,” he said. 

Representing Trinity at First XV level, and ultimately being selected for Australian Schoolboys, he sees those achievements as growing from the environment around him. 

“You’re playing in front of everyone… and it just brings out your best,” he said. 

Despite the years between them, both speak to similar themes—of community, belonging and shared experience. 

For Pillinger, that connection has endured across decades. 

“It’s a shared experience… I can’t imagine you’d find someone who doesn’t feel that connection,” he said.

For Prideaux, it is something he has stepped directly into, following in the footsteps of those who came before him. 

“You’re playing for something bigger than just the school… it’s the community,” he said.  

The image of the two overlooking Number 1 Oval captures something simple but significant. 

Not just two individuals, but a continuation of a journey that has been repeated across generations of Trinity boys. 

From watching in the stands, to wearing the jersey, to representing at the highest level, the pathway remains the same. 

And with Number 1 Oval currently being renewed, that pathway continues—ready for the next generation to step into.

Be part of Giving Day 

Giving Day brings the Trinity community together to support both the places and opportunities that shape a Trinity education. 

Through the TGS Foundation, philanthropic support helps sustain the School of today while opening possibilities for future generations through initiatives such as the renewal of Number 1 Oval and Foundation Scholarships. 

This Giving Day, every contribution reflects a shared commitment to Trinity and the experiences that define it.