70 Years Strong: The World Cup Soccer Tradition Lives on at St James
First introduced in the 1950s, when the college was home to many Italian and Greek families, World Cup Soccer became a revered annual event. With deep European roots and a shared passion for the game, students brought the spirit of international competition to life on campus.
In 2025, after a two-year hiatus, the tournament returned with renewed energy and inclusivity. Over the past fortnight, students from diverse cultural backgrounds came together to celebrate the sport, showcasing their skills and fostering mutual respect and camaraderie.
The Senior Boys Division kicked off the festivities, featuring eight teams: Afghan United, Afghan Lions, East Africa, North Africa, Oceania, England, and the Jimmies staff. The competition was fierce, with standout performances and exciting matches. Ultimately, Afghan United emerged victorious, demonstrating resilience and teamwork across all three of their matches.
The Senior Girls took centre stage in a vibrant tournament featuring teams representing Africa, Tonga, Samoa, and Asia. The semi-finals delivered edge-of-your-seat action, with Africa edging out Tonga in extra time and Asia securing a dominant 5–0 win over Samoa.
Finals Day was packed with drama and excitement. The 3rd/4th playoff between Tonga and Samoa went to golden goal, culminating in a tense 1v1 showdown where Samoa clinched the win. The grand final between Africa and Asia was a thrilling contest, with Africa scoring a late goal to seal a 1–0 victory and claim the Senior Girls World Cup title.
Students displayed exceptional sportsmanship, school pride, and cultural appreciation. Staff members played an active role as referees, players, and supporters, helping to create a lively and inclusive atmosphere.
Congratulations to Afghan United and Africa on their championship wins, and a heartfelt thank you to all staff and students who made this event a resounding success.
World Cup Soccer at Jimmies continues to be more than just a tournament—it’s a celebration of unity, diversity, and the enduring power of sport.