South Australia’s Greek community and football fraternity are mourning the loss of Terry Kalaitsidis, a beloved figure known as one of the “good guys” of local football. The Pontian Eagles president and lifelong football devotee passed away on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy of passion, leadership, and community spirit.
Kalaitsidis, a proud member of the Greek-Australian community, dedicated decades to football, from grassroots to grandstands. As president of the Pontian Eagles, he led the club to remarkable success, guiding them from the amateur SAASL leagues to federation football. Last season, the Eagles clinched their first State League 2 premiership under his leadership, earning 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 said in a heartfelt tribute. “Terry wasn’t just a great guy – he was a great, loving, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and a great friend to a multitude of people.”
Beyond the Pontian Eagles, Kalaitsidis’ influence reached across South Australian football. He spent nearly a decade volunteering at West Adelaide Hellas, coaching and managing junior teams while supporting his son Jeremy’s journey through the club’s ranks. He was also a familiar face at the Glendi festival, where he manned stalls with his trademark enthusiasm.
The Pontian Brotherhood of SA described him as “the proud driving force” behind the Eagles, noting his “fierce spirit, unmatched loyalty, and unforgettable presence.” Adelaide Olympic also paid tribute, remembering him as “kind, genuine, and always a pleasure to be around.”
Kalaitsidis’ mantra, “Respect all, fear none,” became the heartbeat of the Pontian Eagles and a reflection of his enduring passion for the game and his community.
Just last year, Kalaitsidis celebrated his 60th birthday surrounded by family, friends, and teammates who cherished his contributions to football and the Greek-Australian community. His passing has left a void felt deeply by all who knew him.
A funeral service to honour Terry Kalaitsidis will be held at St Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Church in Salisbury Plain on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at 10:30 am.
As one supporter wrote, “A good man, devoted to his family, friends, and the Pontian Eagles — May you rest in peace, mate, and may your memory be eternal.”
This article is adapted from content originally published by Adelaide Now.
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