More than 900 players, coaches, referees, administrators and volunteers united to celebrate an unforgettable season, with Greek Australian clubs stealing the spotlight and once again proving their undeniable strength in state football.
The much-anticipated Football Victoria Gala 2025 was held last Friday, 19 September, at Melbourne’s Crown Palladium.
From Heidelberg United, Oakleigh Cannons and Brunswick City to Bentleigh Greens, Hellenic pride was everywhere, with awards and achievements that filled the community with joy.
Heidelberg United the star of the night
Heidelberg United were the big winners of the evening, capping off a remarkable season with the NPL Men’s championship title. Guided by head coach John Anastasiadis – named NPL Coach of the Year – Heidelberg displayed character and quality, culminating in their 2–1 grand final victory over Dandenong City at Lakeside Stadium.
Leonidas fight to the end
Star striker Bul Juach was honoured as Players’ Player of the Year and Golden Boot winner, while goalkeeper Yaren Sozer claimed Goalkeeper of the Year. Heidelberg also won the Club Media Award for their standout social media presence.
The team now prepares for the Australia Cup final against Newcastle United, with hopes of a historic double – a journey that has become a source of pride and inspiration for the Greek Australian community.
Bentleigh Greens return to the top
Another highlight of the season was the Bentleigh Greens’ return to the summit of Victorian football after two years away from the NPL. With their Greek Cypriot roots firmly embedded in the community, the Greens secured the VPL1 championship with a decisive 3–1 win over Northcote City (Iraklis) in the final round, clinching automatic promotion.
The revival was led by veteran coach George Katsakis, one of the most respected figures in Greek Australian football. At Gala 2025, he was named VPL1 Coach of the Year, recognising not just his tactical abilities but also his leadership in inspiring the squad through adversity.
“I feel fantastic! I’m very proud of what we achieved this year,” Katsakis told Neos Kosmos.
“Coming back into football and finding immediate success makes me both happy and motivated for the future. Winning is in my DNA – this award makes me even hungrier for next season, and I want us to go even higher.”
The Greens’ promotion means renewed Greek Australian rivalries next season, with clashes against Heidelberg and South Melbourne sure to fire up the NPL.
Brunswick City (Leonidas) fell just short of NPL promotion through the play-offs but earned respect for their courage. In a dramatic promotion decider against Melbourne City, Brunswick fought to a 2–2 draw after extra time, only to lose 3–2 on penalties. Dylan Allshorn was named VPL1 Player of the Year, underlining the club’s quality.
Greek Australian women impress
In the NPLW, Heidelberg United FC continued to shine. Keely Lockhart was voted Players’ Player of the Year, Sawa Matsuda claimed the Golden Boot, and coach Dennis Georgakopoulos was named Coach of the Year, cementing the club’s dominance across men’s and women’s football.
A celebration of the whole game
The Gala was not only about trophies but also about recognising the spirit of the game. Volunteers Megan Roussel (Maribyrnong Swifts) and Phillip Berry (Colts United FC) shared Volunteer of the Year honours, while referees Lucas Mattia and Daphne Gounaris were also recognised.
Presenters Michael Zappone and Kat Sasso kept the evening buzzing, while Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos highlighted the government’s $8.1 million investment to upgrade Olympic Park in Heidelberg, the home of Alexander.
“Congratulations to all the award recipients,” said Football Victoria interim CEO Dan Birrell. “Your success inspires the community and proves that hard work opens doors. 2025 was a record-breaking season thanks to all of you.”
For Greek Australian football, Gala 2025 was more than a night of awards – it was a shining celebration of heritage, resilience and success, with promises of even greater triumphs ahead.
