Football South Australia held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday 27 May 2026, providing an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate a significant 2025 season for football across the State.
The AGM highlighted another year of strong participation growth, strategic progress, and continued investment in the future of the game. Football in South Australia continues to thrive both on and off the field.
The meeting recognised the collective efforts of clubs, associations, volunteers, match officials, players, staff, and partners who continue to contribute to the ongoing growth and success of the game throughout South Australia.
Football SA President, Dr Jane Rathjen, reflected on a year focused on sustainability, governance, and ensuring the game remains inclusive, safe, and welcoming for all participants.
“Football has an extraordinary ability to connect communities across culture, age, and geography. Our responsibility is to protect that strength while positioning the game for future generations,” Dr Rathjen said.
The AGM also acknowledged Dr Rathjen as she concludes her second and final term as President of Football South Australia. During her tenure, Dr Rathjen has played an important role in strengthening governance, supporting strategic growth, and helping guide the organisation through a period of significant change and expansion within the game.
Football South Australia also acknowledged outgoing Director Estelle Bowman, who retired from the Board during 2025 following her contribution and service to the organisation.
Football South Australia also acknowledges the contribution of Appointed Directors Paul Mertin and Sacha Wainwright, whose respective appointments concluded during 2026. Their experience and contribution to the Board and the broader game has been greatly appreciated.
Three Elected Director positions were declared vacant at this year’s AGM, with the membership voting to appoint directors for the upcoming term.
The AGM also recognised the continued leadership of CEO Michael Carter and Football SA staff for their ongoing commitment to delivering competitions, programs, events, governance, and operational support across the game.
A special acknowledgment was also made to volunteers across the football community, whose dedication and contribution remain vital to the success and growth of football throughout South Australia.
As Football South Australia moves into the 2026 season, the organisation remains focused on strategic planning, sustainable growth, infrastructure advocacy, and continuing to strengthen the game at all levels across the State.
The 2025 Annual Report can be found here
Football South Australia congratulates Nick Runjajic on his re-election to the Board of Directors following the 2026 AGM. Nick will commence his second term as an Elected Director.
The organisation also welcomes Bill Cagialis and Melissa Gilchrist to the Football SA Board following their election by the membership at the AGM.
Football South Australia thanks all candidates who nominated for this year’s election process and acknowledges their willingness to contribute to the governance and future direction of the game in South Australia.
Following the AGM the Board of Directors met to formally appoint Symoane Mercuiro as President and Paul Centofanti as Vice President.
Football South Australia would like to extend a huge thank you to outgoing President Dr Jane Rathjen for her service to football.
Football SA Board Members
- President – Symoane Mercurio
- Vice President – Paul Centofanti
- Director – Anna Agostino
- Director - Bill Cagialis
- Director - Melissa Gilchrist
- Director - Nick Runjajic
- Director - Martin Small