Football St George Celebrates 2025 Gold Medal Dinner with Dual Medal Winners

Football St George (FSG) joyfully hosted its annual Gold Medal Dinner on Friday 5th September at Conca D’oro, Riverwood, gathering a vibrant community including players, coaches, referees, volunteers, FSG life members, MPs, and local council representatives to celebrate the dedication and passion that underpin football in the St George region.

The evening was masterfully guided by Master of Ceremonies Daniel Garb, whose energy and professionalism enlivened each award presentation, from grassroots achievements to standout performances across the season. After the many highlights of the night, the spotlight shifted to the most prestigious honour of all: the Gold Medal Award, traditionally unveiled at the close of the program. In a fitting tribute, the award was shared, only the second instance in the event’s history, with Irene Hatzipetros and Matt O’Shea, for their extraordinary contributions to football in our region.

Irene’s legacy within St George football is exceptional. Elected to the FSG Board in 2019, she became the association’s first female Chairperson in 2020. Guided by a deep commitment to inclusivity, governance, and community, she oversaw a remarkable 22 per cent rise in player registrations, of which nearly 25 per cent were female participants, a testament to her vision for broader access to the game. Irene played a pivotal role securing grants, improving access to sporting facilities, and strengthening Football St George’s structure, most importantly, the association’s governance and operational foundation. Her leadership was also honoured at the state level in 2023, when she received a prestigious State Award at the Football NSW State Dinner.

Reflecting on this recognition, Irene shared: “I’m honoured to receive this Gold Medal, but the real reward has been seeing football in St George grow into such an inclusive, vibrant community. This award is shared with the countless volunteers and players who continue to inspire me every day.”

Matt O’Shea’s influence has been equally significant. A lifelong servant of the game, Matt has dedicated decades to coaching, mentoring, and supporting players across grassroots and representative football. He has been central to nurturing young talent, lifting coaching standards, and instilling the values of respect and commitment in those he has guided. His contribution extends beyond the technical side of football, with many players and peers crediting him for the culture of inclusivity and opportunity he has helped to foster. Unfortunately, Matt was unable to be present on the night to receive his award in person, but his absence only highlighted the depth of respect and admiration held for him across the community. In a prepared message, he reflected: “To stand alongside the names that have previously received this award is humbling. Football in St George has given me so much, and I’ve simply tried to give something back.”

FSG Chair Jeh Coutinho praised both recipients, saying: “Irene and Matt embody everything this award represents, respect, leadership, and a selfless commitment to football. Their contributions will continue to inspire future generations in our region.” CEO Gary Lockwood added: “This was a night that highlighted how strong and united our football community is. To honour two individuals of Irene and Matt’s calibre is fitting recognition for the decades of service they’ve given. We thank them, and every volunteer, player, referee, and partner who makes football in St George possible.”

The night also highlighted the important role of FSG’s valued partners and sponsors, whose contributions help make evenings like the Gold Medal Dinner possible. Special thanks were extended to McDonald’s and George Stamiris and Louie Treffiletti, whose ongoing support includes presenting the Player of the Year recipients with generous prizes, as well as to The Leader for amplifying the achievements of the football community, to Pigeon Football for its continuous backing of grassroots initiatives, and to Sydney FC for their strong partnership and presence on the night, further strengthening the connection between grassroots and elite football in our region.

Football St George extends sincere gratitude to all sponsors and partners whose generous support ensures the sport continues to thrive from grassroots to elite levels.

The 2025 Gold Medal Dinner will be remembered not only for the outstanding winners celebrated throughout the night but also for the night’s crescendo, the dual Gold Medals awarded to Irene Hatzipetros and Matt O’Shea, two individuals whose dedication continues to shape our football community.

2025 Award Winners: