Michalakopoulos Re-appointed Coach for 2009/10

Monday, 8 September 2008 8:45 AM

South Melbourne FC is pleased to announce the re-appointment of Michael Michalakopoulos and his assistant Phil Peladarinos to the senior coaching roles for the 2009 and 2010 VPL seasons.

Asked about his re appointment Michael had this to say: “I am thrilled to have been signed on to coach SMFC for the coming seasons. I value the confidence shown to me and my assistant by the South board and we regard our eappointment as recognition of our contribution to the Club in 2008. We are very enthusiastic and are looking forward to the challenge of rebuilding the squad and having a successful season in 2009.”

During his short tenure at the club, Michael has impressed all with his passion to succeed, tactical nous and player management attributes.

SMFC club Secretary and Interim Football Director George Koukoulas stated: “In a results sense, the last couple of seasons have been a little disappointing for a variety of reasons, but we believe that Michael and Phil are the right people to steer the club’s footballing fortunes into the future by developing and providing a solid base of players capable of challenging for VPL titles year in year out.

Michael is one of the best up and coming home grown coaches in Australia. As an ex player of the club, he is fully aware of the footballing tradition and success associated with South Melbourne which he instils into the current players. This is an important aspect which helps reinforce the wonderful fabric we have at the club.

I look forward to assisting him in achieving positive outcomes and success for the club in its 50th year.”

The club has already started scouting and recruiting possible additions to the squad given the imminent retirement of club stalwart Dean Anastasiadis and departure due to family reasons of Scott MacNicol and Adam Van Domelle.