The Illawarra region experienced a sporting year for the ages in 2025, packed with historic victories, fairytale comebacks, and championship glory that captivated fans. Compiling a definitive list of the top ten moments is a challenging task, given the sheer volume of notable achievements from teams and individuals across the area. While some worthy feats may inevitably be left out, the countdown culminates in a crowning moment that united the entire region in celebration.
Community Spirit and National Stages
The year saw local clubs make their mark, beginning with the Wollongong Wolves' emotional return to national competition. Despite a 3-0 loss to favourites Heidelberg United at Collegians Sports Centre on October 18, the event was a monumental success. A crowd of 3,077, including the passionate WolfDen supporters, created an electric atmosphere, demonstrating the region's thirst for top-tier football.
Wollongong itself took centre stage on the world map by hosting the 2025 World Triathlon Championship Finals from October 15-19. The event attracted approximately 5,700 athletes and an estimated 20,000 visitors, drawing global attention and sparking conversations about the city's potential to host other major events like the V8 Supercars.
Local Grand Final Dramas and Historic Doubles
Local football leagues provided no shortage of drama. Brittany Ring was the hero for the Woonona Sharks, scoring two late goals to secure a hard-fought 2-1 victory and back-to-back Illawarra Premier League women's titles against Shoalhaven.
An incredible story unfolded in the IPL youth grade, where Bulli's side, who weren't supposed to be in the grand final, claimed an against-all-odds championship. They replaced a disqualified Cringila Lions just three days before the September 21 decider at WIN Stadium and defeated minor premiers Wollongong United 4-3 in a penalty shootout after 110 minutes of football.
Berkeley Eagles created history for their 58-year-old club, securing a historic first-grade and club championship double by emphatically defeating Fernhill Foxes 4-0 in the Illawarra District League grand final on September 20. The win denied Fernhill a historic treble in their centenary year.
Drought-Breaking Triumphs Across Codes
The narrative of ending long waits for glory was a recurring theme. In rugby league, the Western Suburbs Devils claimed back-to-back Illawarra Rugby League premierships, winning the Harrigan Cup 14-8 over Collegians in extra time on September 15, with star half Dane Chisholm again the match-winner.
The Kiama Knights ended a six-year Group Seven Rugby League premiership drought with a 16-4 win over Shellharbour Sharks on September 28. The victory was especially poignant for Cameron Vazzoler, who celebrated a title just three years after a life-threatening battle with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
In rugby union, the Kiama Cows broke a 22-year premiership drought in the most thrilling fashion, edging out Shoalhaven 37-36 in the Illawarra District Rugby Union grand final on September 14. The win denied Shoalhaven a record fourth consecutive title.
The Pinnacle: Hawks Soar to NBL Immortality
Topping the list, and uniting the entire region, was the Illawarra Hawks' unforgettable NBL championship victory. On March 23 at the WIN Entertainment Centre, coach Justin Tatum made good on his promise, guiding the Hawks to a 114-104 Game 5 decider win over Melbourne United to claim the club's second title in 47 years.
The night was filled with iconic moments, from the trophy lift to the incredible sportsmanship of Melbourne's Matthew Dellavedova. After winning the Larry Sengstock Medal as finals MVP, Dellavedova presented it to Hawks veteran Will 'Davo' Hickey, stating, "this belongs to you." The victory sparked city-wide celebrations, culminating in a ticker-tape parade through Wollongong attended by thousands of elated fans.
From last-minute replacements to decades-long droughts and the ultimate professional championship, the Illawarra's sporting landscape in 2025 was defined by resilience, community, and sheer sporting excellence that will be remembered for years to come.
