The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) is proud to announce the launch of the 2024 Greek Community Cup. Scheduled from Sunday 14/1/24 to Sunday 4/2/24, the tournament will take place exclusively at Heatherton United Soccer Club, located at 482 Springvale Rd, Springvale South.

Among the participants are prominent National Premier League (NPL) teams, such as South Melbourne Hellas, Heidelberg Alexander FC, and Oakleigh Cannons FC, alongside various other Greek Clubs. Defending champions, South Melbourne, are eager to uphold their title after last year’s victory.

The GCM President, Bill Papastergiadis, OAM, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament, emphasizing its significance in connecting with the younger generation and in fostering community bonds. He stated, “We are proud to be hosting this tournament. The Greek Community Cup serves as a platform not only for sporting excellence, but also for fostering a sense of community pride and unity. Building on the success of the previous year, we anticipate even greater achievements this year. With matches taking place at the Heatherton United Soccer Club, the tournament promises a vibrant and festive atmosphere. I encourage everyone to come along and support the teams.”

Michael Karamitos, the Vice President of GCM, shared his excitement for this tournament and he said, “As a football lover, I’m excited to once again be a part of the Greek Community Cup and following last year’s successful inaugural tournament, I’m confident that 2024 will be as exciting as it was last year. We have some great rivals participating against one another and we look forward to some great matches. I wish all the teams the best of luck for the tournament.”

Each team will play at least four games, with games consisting of two 35-minute halves. This will increase to 45-minutes halves for the finals. The winners of the Cup will receive not only a trophy and individual medallions for the players but will also be awarded a substantial $3000 prize. The runner-up in the tournament will receive a commendable $1000 prize in recognition of their competitive effort.

Steve Tsalikidis, the President of Heidelberg United FC, expressed his appreciation for the GCM’s Community’s initiative, commenting, “The Greek Community Cup provides an excellent opportunity for all clubs to participate in a pre-season tournament, enabling them to assess new players, before the regular season kicks off. We eagerly looking forward to the start of the commencement tournament.”

Aki Ionnas, the General Manager of Oakleigh Cannons FC, also commended the Community, saying, “Congratulations to the GCM for organising the Greek Community Cup. We are excited about the upcoming event, which starts on the 14^th of January.”

Kon Tangalakis, the coach of Kingston FC, shared his perspective, stating, “The Cup presents a unique opportunity for clubs like Kingston to test their mettle against higher clubs, such as South Melbourne Hellas, Heidelberg, and Oakleigh. We eagerly anticipate the challenge.”

Finally, Andrew Mesourouni, from South Melbourne Hellas said, “South is immensely proud to once again enter a team in the Cup, and the club looks forward to defending its title.”

For tournament schedule, please visit Greek Community Cup (greekcup.com.au)

For all other tournament information, visit the greekcup.com.au or greekcommunity.com.au