Greek National sporting heroes attend All Saints Grammar 2024 Speech Day
Sydney, 5 December 2024 – All Saints Grammar celebrated the close of another successful academic year at its annual Speech Day, an event filled with reflection, recognition, and excitement for the future. The proceedings, which were opened by the Secondary and Primary School Captains, were a momentous occasion to honour the achievements of students, faculty, and the broader school community.
The ceremony began with a prayer led by Father Dimitrios Papaikonomou, followed by the Australian and Greek national anthems. The MCs—students Panagiota Varvaressos, Anthony Vrahnos, Sarah Baldas, and Panos Kamarinas—then welcomed the distinguished guests, including Reverend Father Dimitrios Papaikonomou, Chair of the All Saints Parish Board of Directors Mr Ulysses Ntoumbos, Ms Sophie Cotsis, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Canterbury, and the Head of School, Mrs Elfa Lillis.
Mrs Lillis delivered an inspiring address, reflecting on the year’s achievements. “This year has been one of growth, resilience, and achievement, and it would not have been possible without the collective efforts of our students, staff, and families,” she said. The Head of School praised the student body for their perseverance, creativity, and enthusiasm, encouraging them to carry forward the skills and values developed throughout the year.
The day also included musical performances, with Year 10 student Eleni Michailou captivating the audience with her rendition of Autumn Leaves, and a spectacular Michael Jackson tribute performed by Year 12 Music students – a reminder of the incredible talent that exists within the school community.
A special highlight of the day was the participation of three football legends—Giorgos Karagounis, Angelos Charisteas, and Theodoros Zagorakis – who were part of the historic 2004 UEFA European Championship-winning Greek national team. The trio, widely regarded as icons of Greek football, captivated the audience with their remarkable achievements and the inspiring story of their team’s victory as underdogs. Their triumph in 2004, hailed as one of the greatest underdog stories in sporting history, demonstrated the power of teamwork, resilience, and belief. From unforgettable goals to their exceptional leadership on and off the field, Karagounis, Charisteas, and Zagorakis have captured the hearts of millions. The students and staff of All Saints Grammar were privileged to meet these sporting heroes, whose journey from underdogs to champions served as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and unity.
Mr Georgiakakis, Academic Leader PDHPE and Sport PK-12, introduced the special guests, thanking Nicholas Mouzourakis, an All Saints Grammar alumnus and owner of Football Brilliance Academy, for organising the celebration and bringing the guests to honour the school’s achievements. The legends then assisted with presenting the FUTSAL trophies, including to the Under 16 Boys’ team, who defied the odds to finish second overall in their age group at the fiercely competitive regional championships. With under 400 students at the Secondary campus, the team’s achievement—competing against sporting powerhouses like Trinity Grammar, Newington College, and numerous specialised sports schools—was hailed as a ‘Thermopylae moment.’
Mrs Lillis presented the new Primary and Secondary Student Leadership Team for 2025. Outgoing school captains, Vasilieos Manis and Karina Giokaris, addressed the school community, reflecting on the values of leadership at All Saints Grammar and sharing their insights into what makes the school’s leadership program so special.
As part of the school’s commitment to supporting those in need, the school proudly announced a $5,000 donation to the St. Nicholas Mission Academy in Kokrobite, Ghana, which provides a free and safe learning environment for 133 children. This contribution was made possible by the generous support of the All Saints Grammar community, who participated in various fundraising initiatives throughout the year.
Head of School Mrs Lillis announced exciting new developments for the school. Over the Easter break, a new Infants Playground will be installed, and air conditioning will be added to the gymnasium to enhance the comfort and experience of physical activities and school events. Additionally, the school will expand its Secondary campus with the addition of four state-of-the-art modular classrooms and a new science lab, ensuring that All Saints Grammar continues to meet the needs of its growing student population.
Looking to the future, the school is also preparing to celebrate a significant milestone—its 35th anniversary in 2025. The school will mark this significant milestone with a series of events that reflect on its rich history, the incredible contributions of students, staff, and families, and the strong sense of community that has defined the school over the years.
ASPA (All Saints Parents’ Association) was recognised for its tireless efforts and fundraising achievements, raising an impressive $150,000 to support future school initiatives. Mrs Lillis also thanked the entire school community—students, staff, and families—for their unwavering support throughout the year.
In closing, Mrs Lillis encouraged all present to look forward to the year ahead, saying, “We will continue to build upon the strong foundation we’ve established, always striving to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.”
