Last Friday 22 November the Xavier Community lost a true friend and an exceptional man in Peter Rhoden (OX 1956).

Peter's involvement with the OXA and the Football Club began not long after he finished his schooling.

Peter was appointed Old Xaverians' Cricket team Coach in 1963.

Peter played 60 games with the Old Xaverians' Football Club. He was an outstanding player, prior to serious injury forcing an early retirement.

Peter served as OXFC Committeeman for 15 years and was OXFC Honorary Secretary for 2 years.

Peter coached the Old Xaverians' FC from 1962 to 1968, over 150 games, which is still a club record. In October 2024, the OXFC Senior men's Coaches Trophy was named the Peter Rhoden Medal.

Peter was a member of the Old Xaverians' Association Committee from 1960-1967, 1993-2022. Peter joined Xavier College as a Staff Member in March 2001, in the Development Office as the Community Relations Coordinator.

In 2009, Peter became the inaugural OXA Executive Officer. Peter retired in February 2014 after 13 years of distinguished service to Xavier and the Old Xaverians' Association.

Peter recommenced part-time work in April 2014, to undertake research work as requested by the Foundation.

In 2006 Peter was the team manager of the XC 1st XI.

In 2007, the Peter Rhoden Shield was named after Peter. It is awarded to the Senior Campus Football team that has been the most successful throughout the season.

In 2024 Peter was most deservedly awarded the Xaverian Award, the highest honour bestowed on an Old Xaverian.

Peter continued in his role as a researcher for the Community Relations Office right up until the end.\

During a particularly challenging phase in his life Peter reflected that the support he received from the College Community at the time helped him to understand that striving to be "Men for Others" is a lived reality at Xavier, rather than just a catch phrase.

Peter you truly lived this motto.

The OXA extends it condolences to his daughter Sally and his grandsons: James Forrest (OX 2012) Matthew Forrest (OX 2014) Patrick Bourke (OX 2017) Hugh Bourke (OX 2022¬) and extended family.

Rest in Peace Pete.