The South Australian community is mourning the loss of Terry Kalaitsidis, the long-serving Pontian Eagles football president, who died on October 5 at the age of 61.
Known as one of the “good guys” of the game, Kalaitsidis was remembered as a passionate leader whose vision and community spirit shaped local football for decades.
Under his presidency, the Pontian Eagles rose from the SAASL amateur leagues to claim their first State League 2 premiership last season and earn promotion to State League 1.
“His ambitious vision to take the Pontians to the next level was realised under his presidentship,” West Adelaide Soccer Club wrote in tribute, describing him as “a great, loving, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend.”
Beyond his own club, Kalaitsidis spent nearly a decade volunteering with West Adelaide Hellas, coaching and managing junior teams and helping at community events like Glendi.
The Pontian Brotherhood of SA called him “the proud driving force” behind the Eagles, while Adelaide Olympic described him as “kind, genuine and always a pleasure to be around.”
His mantra “Respect all, fear none” became a cornerstone of the Pontian Eagles’ culture and a reflection of his enduring influence.
A funeral service for Kalaitsidis will be held at St Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Church in Salisbury Plain on Wednesday, October 15, at 10.30am.
Source: The Advertiser.
