Monday, 24 March 2003 12:00 AM
With South Melbourne’s 2002/03 Campaign over, the time is right to look back at what has been an eventful season.
Season 2002/03 will be defined as an important and historic season for the South Melbourne Soccer Club. Despite the obvious disappointment of not qualifying for the finals series, President Peter Mitrakas and his Board have delivered a number of notable achievements.
These achievements are all the more significant given the difficult trading conditions for all soccer clubs in Australia.
This season South Melbourne has embraced greater professionalism and business practices throughout the Club. These practices have already improved day-to-day operations and will continue to bear fruit in the coming years.
2002/03 Key achievements
As a result of the combined efforts of the Board, Administration, and our loyal supporters, the Club has achieved the following: 
On the Field
On the field, whilst the disappointment of not making the finals cannot be ignored, the Club has established solid platforms for future success.
This is highlighted by the recent signing of promising young goalkeeper Eugene Galokovic. Eugene joins the core group of Vince Lia, Massimo Murdocca, Michael Baird and Vaughn Covney as contracted players for next season.
The decision to part ways with coach Danny Wright was a difficult one. However the clubs run of results leading up to his parting was not satisfactory, and action was required in an attempt to improve results and qualify for the finals.
Contrary to certain media reports and despite internal process problems, South Melbourne made news of the decision public immediately after informing both Mr Wright and the players (the players were informed at their next training session). The Club owed a courtesy to the departing coach and its players and staff to release the information only after the relevant parties were informed.
Upcoming priorities
The Club has commenced work to secure a new coach for the 2003/04 Season. Interviews will commence in the coming weeks. The new coach will be responsible for finalising the player list for next season and establishing an integrated youth and junior set-up.
South Melbourne will also shortly be hiring a new General Manager. The Club has accepted the resignation of Steve Blair who was previously on extended leave. The hiring of the General Manager is part of a wider administrative review that has already seen a number of changes to the Club’s administration.
The Club will also be holding a number of functions in the coming months including a Grand Gala Auction Night and Annual Ball/Presentation Night. Details of these events will be confirmed shortly and tickets can be purchased from the Club by ringing 9645 9797 and all supporters are encouraged to attend.
The Future
The South Melbourne Board have commenced implementation on a range of strategic initiatives that will secure the ongoing viability and success of the South Melbourne Soccer Club.
These include:
Questions can be directed to the Club on 9645 9797.