For International Women’s Day 2025, we celebrate Kathy Zacharopoulos, a true all-rounder in South Gippsland sport who is actively #AcceleratingAction for gender equality. From playing elite-level AFL and soccer to coaching, mentoring, and championing inclusivity in local cricket, Kathy is shaping the future of sport in her community.
A Sporting Life – From the City to South Gippsland
Originally from the city, Kathy moved to Leongatha in 2014 in search of a slower-paced life for her family. What she found was a thriving regional sports community where she could make a lasting impact.
Kathy has always been deeply involved in sport. As a young soccer player, she represented Victoria at Nationals and was selected for the U19 Australian training squad in 1997. Her passion for competition then led her to AFL, where she played in the Victorian Women’s Football League (VWFL) for the Darebin Falcons,
winning five premierships in a row (2006-2010) and earning the Lisa Hardeman Medal for Best on Ground in the 2006 Grand Final. She also played International Rules Football in 2006, showcasing her talent on the global stage.
Bringing That Passion to South Gippsland
Since moving to South Gippsland, Kathy has continued to excel across multiple sports:
- Soccer: A dominant force in the Gippsland Soccer League, Kathy won the Golden Boot Award six times (2015-2018, 2022, 2023) and was named League Best & Fairest four years in a row (2015-2018).
- Cricket: A key player for Koonwarra Leongatha RSL Cricket Club, Kathy recently won the Leongatha & District Women’s Cricket Grand Final, making valuable contributions with both bat and ball.
- AFL Coaching: In 2023, Kathy was the assistant coach and team manager for Leongatha Junior Football Club’s U12 mixed team before stepping up to coach the first-ever U14 girls’ team in 2024. In 2025, she has also been selected to coach the South Gippsland All Stars U15 girls’ football team.
Creating Opportunities for Women & Girls in Sport
Kathy is passionate about ensuring that women and girls have equal opportunities to participate in sport. As a former Youth Girls Coach at the Darebin Falcons in 2008, she has long been dedicated to developing young female athletes. Now, as a coach and mentor in South Gippsland, she continues to push for greater inclusivity in sport.
“I think sport is very important for any young girl to be a part of,” Kathy says. “It builds friendships, strong connections within the local community, and a sense of belonging. I believe successful clubs have a strong culture of inclusivity for all. You need to have all members of the club on board to support the inclusion of women and girls and to build a successful club for all.”
Kathy’s leadership has already transformed the experience for young girls in Leongatha. Under her guidance, the U14 Girls have grown in confidence, developed their skills, and become part of a fun, welcoming team environment. She believes that the key to getting more women involved in sport is having strong club support and visible role models—something she embodies in every sport she plays and coaches.
A Role Model in Sport & Leadership
Kathy’s contributions extend beyond the playing field. As a member of the AFL Gippsland Female Coaching Academy, she is part of a movement driving change for women in coaching and leadership roles. Her most admired coach is Peta Searle, who made history as the first female coach in men’s AFL, proving that gender should never be a barrier to leadership in sport.
“As a youngster, I was heavily involved in sport as a player,” Kathy reflects. “Now, I want to give back as a coach and mentor, sharing the knowledge and experiences I gained growing up in sport. Seeing young girls step onto the field with confidence and passion is the most rewarding part of what I do.”
#AccelerateAction for Women in Sport
Kathy’s story is proof that one person’s dedication can change the landscape for women and girls in sport. Whether she’s coaching football, leading a cricket team, or dominating on the soccer field, she continues to inspire and uplift the next generation of women and girl athletes in South Gippsland.
For IWD 2025, let’s celebrate trailblazing women like Kathy, who show us that creating change starts with action.
Join us in celebrating Kathy’s impact and championing more opportunities for women and girls in sport!
