As the Cannons lifted their championship trophy last season, the rest of the NPL teams could only watch in awe.

The Greek Australian team from Oakleigh were unstoppable, securing their rightful place at the top of the league.

The Hellenic Museum in Melbourne set the stage for a night filled with laughter, tears of joy, and heartwarming reunions.

From State Sports Minister Steve Dimopoulos to former Australian football great Robbie Slater, all attendees praised the Cannons for their hard work and dedication.

Slatter stole the show with his jokes and comments.

It was a night to remember, one that truly highlighted the important role the Greek-Australian club plays in the Oakleigh and Monash community.

Move aside stand-up comedians, because Robbie Slater just brought the house down with his hilarious tales and witty punchlines.

As the former international Socceroos player took the stage, the audience was captivated by his stories of growing up and playing overseas, along with his encounters with the legendary Diego Armando Maradona.

But it wasn’t all just jokes and laughter, as Slater’s eloquent words shed light on the challenges facing football in Australia.

As he passionately spoke, one couldn’t help but feel that what’s truly missing in our country’s football scene is the same fervor and devotion that radiated from every person in that room – a true, unwavering love for the beautiful game and their beloved teams.

Marin has worked for the Oakleigh club for 21 whole years.

It was a proud and victorious day for the Cannons as they were recognized by top officials and esteemed individuals for their hard work and success.

Notably, Paul Klisaris, the mayor, was quick to commend the club’s management for their unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements in the Victorian football scene.

Meanwhile, Dimopoulos, the minister, couldn’t help but highlight the impressive developments currently taking place at Jack Edwards Reserve and the promising impact they will have on the club and the region as a whole.

Of course, no one could ignore the persistent and determined efforts of Kostas Kavvalakis, who was specially praised by the minister for his unwavering commitment to the matter.

Paul Klisaris, spoke about the hard work that the club’s administration has been doing for years and that has brought Cannons to the top of Victorian football.

Standing proudly was the club’s president, Stan Papagianeris, who took the time to congratulate the entire team and give credit to their outstanding performance of the previous year. In a show of true appreciation, each player and member of the technical staff was then invited on stage one by one, where they were presented with well-deserved prizes from the board of directors.

It was a moment filled with gratitude, recognition, and camaraderie, truly reflecting the spirit and determination of the Cannons as they continue to aim for greatness on and off the field.

As we listened to the speech given by Oakleigh Cannons manager, Chris Taylor, we couldn’t help but be blown away by his candor and passion.

Chris Taylor, coach of the Oakleigh Cannons, delivered a speech so impressive, it left the audience shouting ‘goal’!
Oakleigh Deliyannis Stan: Cannons management awarded local media people.

Despite his team winning the championship, Taylor expressed his disappointment over their loss in the Australian Cup.

As a seasoned coach, he understood the value of winning important trophies and the sting of being eliminated in the quarter-finals was a tough pill to swallow.

His words carried the weight of this loss and revealed the haunting effect it still has on him. Not only did Taylor show his unwavering belief in the players he coaches, but he also raised the bar for the upcoming season, setting new heights for the club.

This move not only reveals the coach’s impeccable motivational skills but also showcases his deep understanding of the role psychology plays in a championship.

Local media people have been awarded. Photos: Con Deves

It’s no secret that winning teams often struggle to maintain their drive and determination after experiencing major success, but Taylor’s concern for this scenario sets him apart and solidifies his position as a top-notch coach.

The most emotional moment of the evening was when Mr. Eric Marin was presented with an award. Mr. Marin is leaving the Cannons after 21 years of service with the club. The Cannons board couldn’t help but acknowledge his hard work and dedication.

The management of Oakleigh Cannons kindly wanted to recognize the work of media personnel by awarding Stelios Gerontaras from Rythmos, Kostas Paterakis from 3XY, and myself as a representative of Neos Kosmos.