South Melbourne FC, with its host Ashley Maikousis, held its annual Inner Sanctum event on Thursday, November 7 to honour the services of key members, as well as making key announcements by President Nick Maikousis.
The key announcement at this year’s event was the new joint no. 1 ticket holders Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and State Member of Parliament Nina Taylor, with Football Australia Chairman Anter Isaac stating that South Melbourne should be in the A-League.
In announcing their appointment, South Melbourne Chairman Bill Papastergiadis noted that, “Richard Marles has been a loyal supporter of the club having been at many of the key games over a number of years including our semi final FA Cup against Melbourne City and our opening game in 2022 against Heidelberg FC.”
Importantly, Mr Papastergiadis said, “Marles always makes time for the Club no matter his commitments. His strong understanding of our community and club make him an ideal choice as no. 1 ticket holder. We are excited that he will be a part of our story as we head into the new National Second Tier for football in 2025.”
Marles thanked the Club for the honour and said, “South is more than a football club. It embodies the true nature of multiculturalism. The club is evidence of the struggles and ultimately the success of the immigrants to this country. Melbourne is richer for having South as part of its football and culture landscape. I am honoured to be a no.1 ticket holder.”
Ms Taylor said she was delighted with the honour.
“For a club that champions all parts of our society, whether it’s the all abilities football team (power chair), blind football or its women’s programs, this club continues to delivers at the highest level. I look forward to working with the club on its initiatives and its incumbent on me to support in any way I can such a wonderful club,” Ms Taylor said.
As President, Mr Maikousis spoke about the Club’s readiness to now participate at the highest level in the country and that there was no limit to whether it’s the B-League or the A-League.
“The Club’s destiny is at the top tier and we belong there. The work the Club has done to ready itself for this new journey needs to be rewarded. We will work with Football Australia on this,” Mr Maikousis said.
Mr Maikousis went on to announce the appointment of former star player David Clarkson as the General Manger of the Club. He said, “this adds depth to our football offerings across the board.”
On the night, former ministers Martin Pakula and Martin Foley were also acknowledged for their respective contributions. Mr Papastergiadis, in presenting the awards, noted that Mr Pakula and Mr Foley were there for the club when it was needed.
Mr Papastergiadis said, “a club without a home ground is destined to fail. Hence, our negotiations to secure a 40 year lease and license were critical to the Club’s future. Both Ministers played a key role in the Club ultimately securing the lease and without them, the outcome was less secure. At the same time, as a past no. 1 ticket holder, Mr Foley was a key part of our A League bid, being present at all of our meetings with Football Australia and he featured heavily in our bid document. Former Ministers Foley and Pakula were there when the Club needed them.”
Mr Foley commenced his address by stating, “South should be in the A-League. It is a club that has history, success, and support. It is a no brainer for Football Australia. I spent many hours at this club and witnessed first hand the strength of the club and its supporters. Football would be the richer for having South at the top tier.”
Mr Pakula noted that his own upbringing was closely tied to the Club given that his neighbours and best friends were the Anastasiadis brothers. He said “everyone knows the Club,” and as now Chair of the Grand prix Corporation, he hopes to continue to have a close relationship with South.
The night also saw a presentation of the famed documentary on Puskas and Postecoglou, and Paul Trimboli spoke along with the directors of the film about the glory days when Puskas led the team to a National title.
Mr Maikousis then entered into a discussion with Anter Isaac (Chairman of Football Australia). Mr Maikousis noted that the new National Second Tier was a good start, but that a stand alone competition was necessary.
In response, Mr Anter acknowledged that South is a Club that indeed has A-League credentials. He said he was hopeful of a standalone National Second Tier competition in the near future. Mr Maikousis expressed his desire for this to be achieved as a matter of urgency. Mr Anter said the new competition for the Second Tier will help unite football in this country and will offer more football to the public.
Mr Maikousis concluded the night by acknowledging all the sponsors and reflecting on the importance of all football clubs connecting with their supporters and the general public. The game is served well when clubs are able to participate at the highest level. He extended his thanks to sponsors and to Andrew Mesorouni for putting the event together.
*All photos copyright The Greek Herald / Bill Roumeliotis.
