Chris Nikou and James Johnson help Greek community kick off South Melbourne FC season

·

By Bill Roumeliotis and Bill Papastergiadis

The Australian Football Association’s leading delegation was left more than impressed on Friday after their visit to Lakeside Stadium, where they not only watched South Melbourne FC’s game against Eastern Lions, but saw their modern facilities up close.

Both the President of Football Federation Australia, Chris Nikou, and the General Manager of the Federation, James Johnson, used their best words to express the professionalism of Hellas Melbourne and promised that soon the “blue and white” club will fight where it should be, and where it belongs.

South Melbourne FC President Mr Nick Maikousi said: “After 20 years we were delighted to host FA chairman Chris Nikou & CEO James Johnson at major corporate event at Lakeside last night. It is a glimpse of things to come in the Nation Second Devision.”

Photo: Bill Roumeliotis

Andrew Mesourouni was delighted with the attendance of the elite hierarchy of football and pointed to the significant amount of work undertaken in recent times to build the football product as South Melbourne.

Bill Papastergiadis interviewed James Johnson and Kimon Taliadoros, President of Football Federation Victoria, at half time and he asked the question: “What are the 2 most important things you would like to achieve in your leadership roles”.

Interestingly, both responded with similar answers. James Johnson said “cohesion and integration are key elements. Brining together all the elements of football will ensure that the game will develop. Football’s multicultural past is important and it needs to be respected and South Melbourne is an important part of the history and story of football in Australia.”

Photo: Bill Roumeliotis

James Johnson noted that the “National Second Division was something currently under consideration by the FA. South Melbourne could potentially be a part of any potential National Second Devision if it went ahead. it has supporters, stadium and is also doing impressive work in many other areas which are important for the fabric of a football club, such as the work South is doing in its women’s football, the blind football team and the disabled team.”

Bill Papastergiadis said: “Chris Nikou and James Johnson spent over 3 hours with us at the game. They enjoyed the match, the atmosphere and I feel they are excited about South Melbourne and what it could bring if a National Second Division was established.

“Chris and James were generous with their time and spoke to many supporters and sponsors. They seemed very interested in the South story and clearly felt comfortable. We hope this is the start of many discussions that lead to the establishment of a National Second Division. They are exciting times ahead for football in Australia.”

greek film festival sydney new

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

The man for all jobs: How a Greek migrant turned setbacks into 7-figure success

When Christof Mantzanas stepped off the plane in Melbourne on 10 March 2015, he had just $1,000 in his pocket.

Jimmy’s Kitchen brings authentic Greek hospitality to The Rocks

Sydney diners can now experience the warmth, flavour, and soul of a traditional Greek taverna without the flight to Greece.

Greek Community of Melbourne enhances safety with defibrillator training seminar

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) took a notable step towards enhancing community safety by organising a defibrillator training seminar.

Wills without the Trojan War

After nearly 15 years in the legal industry, I’ve lost track of how many matters I’ve worked on involving family disputes over estates.

From tech to health: Greek Australians driving innovation in 2025

Australia’s Top 100 Innovators celebrate those who turn setbacks into breakthroughs. This year, three Greek Australians are among them.

You May Also Like

Sister Kaliniki nominated for inaugural People’s Choice Blue Plaque in NSW

Australia’s first ordained Greek Orthodox nun, Sister Kaliniki, has been nominated for an inaugural People’s Choice Blue Plaque in NSW.

Future bright for Greek Community Home for the Aged after successful fundraiser

Future of the Greek Community Home for the Aged at Earlwood looks bright following a successful fundraiser on Thursday, May 30.

Greek politician takes Melburnians on a virtual trek to Thessaloniki’s liberation

Thessaloniki Association “The White Tower” commemorated 111 years of liberation for Greece’s second-largest city.