Archbishop Makarios of Australia has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Greece’s men’s national water polo team following its historic gold medal victory at the World Cup, held in Sydney.
In his message, the Archbishop congratulated head coach Theodoros Vlachos, the players, and the entire coaching staff, noting that their achievement “brings joy and pride to Hellenism everywhere, and especially to our Greek community in Australia.”
He also praised the athletes for their character, humility, and respect, recalling the opportunity he recently had to welcome the team to the headquarters of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia and its Cathedral.
Archbishop Makarios observed that these virtues, now combined with Greece’s first-ever World Cup gold medal in men’s water polo, make the accomplishment even more meaningful.
“Above all, my greatest joy comes from having met these young men,” he said. “We encountered athletes distinguished by their ethos, humility, and respect—qualities that are not always reflected in rankings or medals.”
He added that the historic triumph offers healthy role models for younger generations and expressed gratitude to God for revealing such examples before society.
Concluding his message, Archbishop Makarios prayed that God would continue to bless all members of the Greek delegation with health, strength, and enlightenment, so that they may continue to bring moments of national pride to Greece and remain enduring examples for the nation’s youth.
