We celebrate the vibrant and faith-filled spirit of the Socktober 2025 tournament held on Saturday 25 October in the Catholic Diocese of Darwin. Children, youth, volunteers and supporters from parish communities across the Diocese gathered for fun and fellowship—uniting purpose and play in support of mission.
Held at Holy Spirit Catholic Parish and its school grounds (with generous hosting by the MGL Fathers and parish volunteers), the “kick-off” of the day saw children’s, youth and young-adults teams from various parishes sign up to demonstrate solidarity and hope in action for children’s mission in Zambia. The event aligned with the national focus of Socktober on Zambia, through Catholic Mission, where soccer and the symbolic “sockball” bring a global-justice dimension to local community engagement.
A key feature of the day was the creation and use of the iconic “sockball” — soccer balls made from recycled materials — crafted by students and youth groups as part of their formation. These symbolic balls illustrate the real and often difficult challenges many children face each day in mission-contexts.
The tournament not only provided a fun and memorable community event under the Territory sun, but also strengthened the bond between parishes, Catholic Education schools and the Diocese as partners in mission in this Jubilee Year of being missionaries of hope among all peoples. Particular thanks go to the Holy Spirit parish and school communities, with the MGL Fathers and generous volunteers, for organising and hosting this important fundraiser.
Congratulations to the winning teams:
Children’s category: Holy Spirit
Youth division: St Martin de Porres
Over 18s (Young Adults / Friends & Clergy): Clergy and Friends
As one participant put it: “Together, as a Darwin Diocese – we kicked GOALS for good!”
This event exemplifies how sport, faith and mission can intertwine to bring hope, build community and make a meaningful global difference.