Former Socceroos goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac shared his thoughts, in a recent interview with Optus Sport, on the newly established National Second Division (NSD), highlighting the need for greater media and financial backing for the competition.
His remarks come as South Melbourne FC, one of Australia’s most historically significant Hellenic heritage football clubs, prepares to compete in the inaugural season of the NSD, set to begin in October 2025.
Kalac, who came through the ranks during the National Soccer League (NSL) era, expressed optimism about the NSD’s potential, emphasizing its importance in preserving and celebrating the nation’s football history.
“I think the concept is fantastic. I actually think it’s a very sellable product,” Kalac stated.
“I would love to watch Sydney United play South Melbourne. It recreates a bit of history. We try to walk away from history here in Australia, but history is important. This is a good way to start.”
His comments underscore the excitement surrounding the competition, which will feature several clubs with deep-rooted football legacies, including South Melbourne FC. The club, which has a storied past in Australian football and won multiple NSL championships, sees the NSD as a pathway to re-establishing itself on a national stage.
However, Kalac also raised concerns about the challenges clubs may face in making the NSD sustainable and competitive. He pointed out that critical aspects such as travel costs, accommodation, and investment will play a significant role in ensuring the league’s success.
“We’ll see what the flights are like. We’ll see what accommodation is like. What’s it going to cost the clubs? You know, you’ve got to take it seriously. These clubs need to go into the B League and invest and try to win the B League. It’s got to be real,” he stressed.
A central theme of Kalac’s comments was the ongoing struggle for media and financial support in Australian football. He lamented the lack of recognition for clubs outside the A-League and reiterated the resilience of traditional football institutions despite the challenges they face.
“We are the most played sport in Australia. Where’s the media support? Where’s the financial support?” Kalac questioned.
“They still try to kick us in the guts, but we’re still there. We’re still there.”
His call for greater support resonates deeply with clubs like South Melbourne, which have long advocated for increased visibility. As one of the eight foundation clubs in the NSD, South Melbourne FC carries the weight of history and ambition, hoping to lead the resurgence of football at this level.
For South Melbourne and other participating clubs, the competition represents a long-awaited opportunity—but one that must be backed by tangible support if it is to thrive.
