A Trailblazer Remembered: David Kantilla’s Lasting Legacy

In just his second season with South Adelaide, ruckman David Kantilla secured his second Knuckey Cup—awarded to the club’s best and most brilliant player. It was a fitting recognition for a man who became not only a cornerstone of the Panthers’ on-field success, but also a pioneer for First Nations athletes in Australian football.

Kantilla played a key role in South Adelaide’s 1964 Premiership, but his impact extended far beyond the boundary line. As one of the first Tiwi Islanders to play at the top level, his story served as a powerful inspiration to young Indigenous players across the country, proving that they too could thrive in elite football.

Arriving in Adelaide from the Tiwi Islands in 1961, Kantilla needed a place to call home. Through a partnership with local couple Betty and Peter Skelly, the South Adelaide Football Club arranged accommodation for players at the Skellys’ Kent Town guesthouse—a location ideal for its proximity to both the Adelaide Oval and the club’s eastern recruiting zones.

The arrangement was initiated by then-club secretary Max Murdy, who reached out to the Skellys, former Norwood supporters, to open their home to Panthers players. Over the years, many players would stay there—including David Kantilla.

Peter and Betty’s son, John Skelly, recalls those years fondly. From shared meals and card games to late-night chats and chores like doing the dishes, he remembers the camaraderie and warmth that filled their home. One of his cherished memories is polishing Kantilla’s boots before games and carrying his bag into the Adelaide Oval changerooms on Saturdays.

John also recalls how his mother Betty took on a motherly role with the players, treating them like her own children—firm but caring, and was always in charge of the household.

Kantilla went on to play six seasons for South Adelaide from 1961 to 1966, appearing in 113 games and kicking 130 goals. He also represented South Australia in four state matches, becoming the first Tiwi Islander to achieve this honour. His final game came in the 1966 First Semi Final against North Adelaide, after which he returned home to be with his wife and family.

Back on the Tiwi Islands, he took on the role of captain-coach at St Mary’s Football Club. Tragically, in 1978, David Kantilla’s life was cut short in a motor vehicle accident—gone far too soon, but never forgotten.

Before leaving Adelaide in 1966, Kantilla gifted his 1962 Knuckey Cup to young John Skelly as a token of gratitude of thanks for the Skelly's hospitality. John treasured the cup for decades, with it proudly on display at home. However, after relocating to Golden Grove and lacking space to display it properly, he made the decision to donate the cup back to South Adelaide Football Club.

Today, Kantilla’s Knuckey Cup sits proudly in the club’s main foyer trophy cabinet—a powerful reminder of his legacy both on and off the field.

South Adelaide Football Club extends its sincere thanks to John Skelly for returning a cherished piece of Panthers history, and to Dr. Randall Williams for helping facilitate its return.