31 July 2025
During the first week of the July break, our 1st XI were delighted to participate in this year’s Interstate Independent School Cup. This competition, created by SPSC soccer staff in 2022, brings together some of the best soccer schools from three states, held at one of the most impressive soccer venues in Australia — FM Stadium, Gepps Cross. Football South Australia is a proud supporter of the event, which continues to strengthen connections between Independent School soccer programs around the country.
This year’s competition featured the following six teams:
Newington College (NSW)
Hutchins School (TAS)
Gleeson College (SA)
Rostrevor College (SA)
Christian Brothers College (SA)
St Peter’s College (SA)
The tournament commenced on Tuesday 1 July, with opening matches played throughout the day, followed by an official welcome dinner for visiting schools, hosted at St Peter’s College in the Da Costa Dining Hall. Mr Browning and I welcomed all players and staff, and we were thrilled to have Adelaide United captain Ryan Kitto join us as guest speaker. Ryan generously answered questions from students and staff about his journey to becoming a professional soccer player.
The program also included a Leadership and Player Development Forum led by former Socceroo Daniel Mullen, alongside several respected figures in South Australian football.
Matches were played across three days, with Rostrevor College crowned winners following the final match on Thursday. SPSC captain Kostas Tsiopelas and midfielder Ilia Shrestha were named in the Team of the Tournament, recognising the best two players from each school as voted by all coaches.
We are excited to see the profile and reputation of this unique interstate tournament grow each year. Plans are already underway for an expanded eight-team format in 2025, with four interstate teams competing alongside four from South Australia.
Sincere thanks to Mr French and Mr Freesmith for their generous commitment of time and expertise in ensuring the success of this tournament.
Sean Inman
Head of Soccer
