Wednesday, 3 December 2008 11:59 AM
South Melbourne FC is pleased to announce the appointment of Ange Dallas as the Head of Football Operations for season 2009.
Ange brings to the club a wealth of football experience from both on and off the park, having been an accomplished player whilst being a major part of the South Melbourne junior set up almost 20 years ago.
With his performances as a player being of the highest quality, Ange was asked to join the Under 19 Australian team on tour. Whilst on this tour, Ange impressed numerous overseas clubs and was subsequently asked to trial by English giants, Bolton Wanderers.
With both Bolton and Everton keen to sign the South junior, Ange unfortunately suffered a debilitating and career-ending back injury that saw him give up playing the game he loved.
Since then, he has remained a part of the game in various managerial and coaching roles, nurturing young footballers for the past decade. In 2008, Ange accomplished an impressive double as coach of the South Melbourne Under 11 team. Through this, his boys were able to capture the under 11 crown, as well as being crowned champions of the prestigious Kanga Cup.
With his knowledge of the game and large passion for the club that spans over 20 years, Ange brings a new, fresh and passionate presence into the football department to work directly with the current senior coach Michael Michalakopoulos.
In addition to the appointment of Ange, South has also appointed David Lugli as the Under 21 coach for the 2009 season.
David also brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role, having been a part of Whittlesea / Bulleen and Heidelberg at Under 21 level previously with great success.
With an ability to work with young players from all age groups, the former Brunswick Juventus player has also previously coached the Victorian Under 15 side at the state championships.
South Melbourne club Secretary George Koukoulas was excited about the appointments.
“South has an enviable footballing pedigree that is widely recognised and respected. As a club, we need to ensure this footballing legacy continues and prospers into the future.
With these two fresh and vibrant individuals coming into the football department in addition to our motivated senior coaches, I am confident that we can achieve something special in 2009 as part of our 50th year celebrations”
South Melbourne FC wishes both Ange and David all the best in their new roles and hope that they can play a major part in pushing South back up the table and into championship contention for season 2009 and beyond.