The 2025 Respect Cup was more than just a game of football – it was a celebration of inclusivity, respect, and the power of sport to bring people together.
Held at GMHBA Stadium on Wednesday, 19 March, the event once again saw St Patrick’s College, St Joseph’s College, Sacred Heart College and Loreto College unite in a shared commitment to gender equality and recognition of women’s achievements in sport.
On the field, St Patrick’s College put in a spirited performance, finishing with a dominant final quarter to claim victory over St Joseph’s College, 8.8.56 to 5.5.44.
Despite trailing for much of the match, the team surged home in the last term, making the most of their opportunities to secure a memorable win.
But while the scoreboard showed a St Pat’s victory, the true success of the Respect Cup lies in what it stands for.
“The Respect Cup is about so much more than football. It’s about celebrating the achievements of women in sport, challenging bias, and fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity,” SPC Director of Football Howard Clark said.
“It was great to get win, but the real victory is in the conversations this event continues to spark and the values it instills in our students.”
The Respect Cup continues to grow as a tradition that strengthens bonds between schools and highlights the unifying power of sport.
St Patrick’s College is committed to promoting respect and equality both on and off the field. As a proud member of the CoRE (Communities of Respect and Equality) Alliance, we actively support initiatives that challenge gender-based violence and promote a safer, more inclusive community.
Recently, our rugby players participated in Movement Based Bystander Training with Melbourne Storm, equipping them with skills to stand up against disrespectful behaviour and be positive role models in the community.
Principal Steven O’Connor reinforced the College’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.
“Our membership of CoRE aligns comfortably and positively with our commitment to ensuring that a St Patrick’s education is characterised by respectful relationships and our commitment to developing character, compassion and community in all of our students,” he said.
