Another golden page is set to be written in the storied history of Hellas. The South Melbourne club has been informed that its application to participate in the Oceania Professional League has been accepted, and the Greek Australian team will take part in the new tournament, which is expected to commence in January 2026.
Hellas’ participation in such a significant international tournament changes the status of the organization, providing it with the opportunity to evolve at a pace far different and faster than that of other domestic clubs.
Neos Kosmos spoke with the club’s president, Nicholas Maikousis, who did not hide his excitement.
“I am extremely proud of our club. After 20 years, Hellas is returning to the international stage, and this is something we achieved on our own, without anyone’s help. Isn’t it ironic? To be accepted abroad but not in your own country?” he said.
The club’s management is expected to make significant changes to ensure the team can compete in multiple competitions within a single season. “It won’t be an easy process, but we will do whatever is necessary to be competitive in all competitions. We will create two separate squads: one will participate in the NPL championship, and the other in the new Australian championship and the Oceania Professional League.”
The leader of South Melbourne Hellas is very proud of the work the club has been doing in recent years.
“We are among the pioneers of the new Australian championship. It may not be exactly in the form we dreamed of, but it’s only the beginning. Now we are being accepted again into an international championship. We have achieved all this on our own, without anyone’s help. In an environment where nothing changes and remains stale, we are moving forward.”
The club’s general manager, Stratis Xynas, also appeared particularly excited.
“This is a landmark moment for our club. To once again represent South Melbourne and Australia in an international competition is something we are incredibly proud of. Our participation in this newly formulated league will strengthen our ties with the region, and Lakeside Stadium will be a focal point for this exciting journey. Our impact will be felt both locally and across Oceania, and we are overjoyed by today’s news as we continue to be a point of difference in Australian football.”
