SHOC Football Club

The SHOC Football Club is more than just a sporting team; it’s a proud tradition that spans over five decades and remains a valued and active part of the SHOC community.

Founded in 1968, SHOC Football Club has a rich history of passion, resilience, and community spirit. Over the years, the club has cemented its place in South Australia’s amateur football scene, boasting standout achievements, incredible player milestones, and a proud tradition of representing Sacred Heart with honour.

In the 2025 season, SHOC FC entered the Adelaide Footy League Division 1 for the third consecutive year, a testament to the club’s strength, stability, and high retention rate of over 90%. The club successfully filled four senior men’s teams, welcomed 25 new or returning players, and provided opportunities for every player to develop both on and off the field.

Off the field, SHOC Football Club lives by the “ONE CLUB” mantra, fostering a strong, inclusive culture that values mateship, respect, and community as much as on-field success.

The Broadway Motel Hotel (BMH) is a major sponsor and the hub of Saturday nights. After each round, the club comes together with the SHOC Netball Club for weekly presentations at the BMH, a tradition that keeps the camaraderie going long after the final siren. It’s a great spot to connect with players, supporters, and friends from both clubs. Whether you’ve been on the field, on the sidelines, or just love the club atmosphere, you’re always welcome.

Whether you’re aiming to play competitively, socially, or just want to stay connected to your Hearts mates, the SHOC Football Club welcomes you. Get in touch to join or support!

A bit of history

In the 60s, the Sacred Heart Old Collegians Association discussed the formation of a football team, but could not obtain a suitable ground. Many of its members at the time were playing football with the Christian Brothers Football Club. However, with the acquisition of Pennington Reserve, SHOC Football Club was formed in 1968 and steady progress was made in the 70s under the guidance of Coach and President Roger Orchard until A1 was achieved in 1984.

The club then nearly pulled off the not inconsiderable feat of ranking with Kingswood (1913), West Adelaide United (1936), and Woodville (1941) as the only SAAFL clubs to win the flag in their first season of promotion to A1 football. It ended the minor round in second place, then led Riverside in the second semi by 13 points with only minutes to play. Unfortunately, the game ended in a draw, and SHOC lost the replay and then the preliminary final to finish third. Had they won the second semi, they would have joined St Peter’s OC and Prince Alfred OC as the only old scholar clubs to play in an A1 Grand Final.

The club then stayed in A1 until 1989, returning briefly in 1994 and 1988, and except for a brief visit to Division 3 in 2001. The record holder for games played is Neil O’Dea (SHOC ’88) with 440.