Story & Photos Zoran Juraj SABLJAK
The Melbourne Knights Football Club kicked off their 2025 season in style last Friday night, January 31st, with their annual season launch and jersey auction at the Australian Croatian Association in Footscray. The prestigious event attracted over 200 guests, including distinguished attendee Member of Parliament for St Albans, Natalie Suleyman.
Melbourne Knights’ Club President Simon Pinčić delivering his address at last Friday’s 2025 season launch event.
Club President Simon Pinčić delivered a series of significant announcements during his address, highlighting the strong corporate support backing the Knights in 2025. Longtime supporter Ivan Filipović of I&D Group continues as the club’s major sponsor, joined by new major sponsors AHB Group, represented by Pas Garofalo and Charles Agius, alongside Sherridon Homes.
Melbourne Knights’ President Simon Pinčić with club major sponsor Ivan Filipović from the I&D Group
A landmark announcement came with Matthew Tompsett of Tompsett Asphalt securing naming rights for the stadium. The venue will be known as Tompsett Stadium for at least the next three years, marking a fitting culmination to an extensive 18-month upgrade project valued at over $2 million. The improvements include new changerooms and pitches for the junior program, enhanced corporate facilities, drainage upgrades, extensive asphalt and concrete works, and a new green space at the clubrooms.
Matthew Tompsett of Tompsett Asphalt announced as naming rights for the Somers St stadium to be known as Tompsett Stadium for at least the next three years
The evening’s entertainment was masterfully guided by MC Tony Dorotić, who conducted the traditional jersey auction that raised substantial funds for the club’s ongoing operations. Comedian Des Dowling had the crowd in stitches with his interactive comedy routine, often playfully targeting audience members.
Guests enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal, featuring the Dom’s signature dish “sarma,” while band “Gola Gitara” provided musical entertainment between formalities. The event proved to be an excellent opportunity for players, sponsors, and fans to connect and strengthen the club’s community bonds.
The Knights will waste no time getting their 2025 NPL Victoria campaign underway, with their season opener scheduled for Thursday, February 6th at 7:30 PM. The inaugural match at the newly-named Tompsett Stadium will see them face off against Heidelberg United in what promises to be an exciting start to the season.
With the successful launch event setting a positive tone and significant infrastructure improvements in place, anticipation is high for what looks to be a promising 2025 season for the Melbourne Knights.
