The Demon Knights Football Club of Armidale has won the popular poll to be named the Best Sporting Team in our annual Best in the New England promotion.
Established in 1973, Demon Knights FC—affectionately known as the “DKFC”—fields teams across all age groups, from buzzing Mini-Roos through to competitive seniors, including its Northern Inland Premier League first-grade side and the celebrated DK Dads men’s team. The accolade acknowledges the sustained achievements, community spirit, and development ethos that underpin the club’s broad success.
The votes from the community all emphasised the club’s community spirit and overall culture of inclusivity and supportiveness, many describing it as a family.
“It is a family club with generations of members who bleed the black and white,” said James. “It has always accepted everyone no matter their differences, making it a home for all who love to play both on and off the pitch. Our motto is club first, team second, self last – this is why most people who join stay a demon knight life. Goooooo the Knights!!!”
“The club is a family. It has the best culture for players and spectators. Biggest club in Armidale too,” said Alex.
“Great family club. Look after their juniors really well,” said John.
“They care about their players, the families that support their players and are in love with the sport not just winning. Demon knights is more then a club it is a family,” said Breanna.
At the heart of the club’s values is a commitment to inclusivity and wellbeing. DKFC has embraced initiatives such as free mental health workshops for senior and youth players in collaboration with Talk2MeBro and Northern NSW Football, emphasising the development of resilience, mindfulness, and support systems off the pitch. It’s this holistic care for club culture that has underpinned DKFC’s reputation beyond just football results.
Coaches and club officials attribute the award to the dedication of volunteer coaches, players, families, and sponsors—especially local supporters like St Kilda Hotel & Cellars—who back the club not only financially but through match-day involvement and community events
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to every single person who makes up our DKFC family. This award is a reflection of your passion, commitment and love for our club,” the club said on Facebook.
“To our committee, who keep the wheels turning behind the scenes, to our coaches, who bring the fire and fun to every session, to our volunteers, who show up, cheer loud, set up, pack down and never stop giving, to our players and families, who live and breathe the game with us – This award belongs to all of you.”
Best in the New England is an annual promotion run by New England Times. Find out more here.
See who won last year.
Read the terms and conditions of the promotion.
See all the stories about Best in the New England including winner profiles.