South Melbourne FC

Author: George Kouroumalis

David Clarkson elevated to General Manager Position

South Melbourne FC is proud to announce that club legend David Clarkson has been appointed as the club’s new General Manager for the 2025 season. As well as being a Championship Winner and Hall of Fame member of South Melbourne FC, David brings a wealth of experience in both professional and community football, having worked in this field for the past decade.

His background includes roles within the A-League and a variety of community football projects, giving him a unique understanding of all facets of the sport. David’s successful tenure as Head of Community Football at South Melbourne FC, where he led numerous impactful initiatives, will be an invaluable asset as he steps into this role.

Statement from Club President, Nicholas Maikousis

“We are thrilled to welcome David into this new role. His deep understanding of South Melbourne’s values, combined with his exceptional leadership skills, make him the perfect choice to lead us forward. David has been an integral part of our club for many years, and his promotion to General Manager reflects our confidence in his vision and dedication. We look forward to achieving new heights together under his management”

Statement from David Clarkson

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that I take on the role of General Manager of South Melbourne FC. This club is not just a football team; it is a cornerstone of our community, a symbol of passion, resilience, and unity. Having had the privilege of pulling on the famous blue shirt as a player, I understand what it means to represent a club that means so much to so many. I stand on the shoulders of all that have come before me.

First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the President and Board of Directors for their confidence in me and for this incredible opportunity.

As I step into this role, I am acutely aware of the rich history and tradition that South Melbourne FC embodies. We have a proud legacy, filled with achievements, but our journey does not stop here. Together, we face exciting challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

My vision for South Melbourne FC is simple: to create a club that excels on the pitch, off the pitch and in the community

I invite each of you—players, staff, sponsors, former players, past volunteers, members, and supporters—to join me & the Board in shaping the future of our club. Let’s unite in our efforts, share our ideas, and work collaboratively towards our common goals.

November 10, 2024
Thank You Harrison – Sawyer departs

South Melbourne FC confirms the departure of our captain, Harrison Sawyer, who has signed a professional contract with Macarthur FC in the A-League effective immediately.

It has been a privilege having Harrison back at South Melbourne, where he not only led the club as captain but also set the standards for a season that saw us bring home two trophies. Harrison proudly lifted the record-equalling Dockerty Cup after defeating Oakleigh and secured the Premiers Plate with a first-place finish at the top of the table.

His performances in the Australia Cup were equally outstanding, scoring against Wellington and delivering an incredible match this past Wednesday against Hume – despite knowing his move was imminent. This exemplifies the true measure of a leader and someone who loved leading our football club and wanted to see the best for our club.

Though Harrison is moving on to compete in the top flight of Australian football, he will always be welcome at his home, Lakeside Stadium. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and contributions to our proud football club not only during this season but those prior as well.

He leaves South having also secured the 2024 NPL Victoria and SMFC Golden Boot.

All the best, H

September 15, 2024
Lakeside Stadium Clinic this September School Holidays (Sept 25/26)

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

BOYS SUPER CLINIC LOCATION:
Lakeside Stadium
31-33 Aughtie Drive,
Albert Park

FOR:
+ BOYS & GIRLS from 6 to 14 years.
+ Beginner Junior Footballers to Rep Players.

CLINIC DATES:
+ Wed Sept 25 & Thur Sept 26.
+ This is a 2 day clinic.

CLINIC TIMES:
+ Arrive 9.00am.
+ Start 9:30am.
+ Finish 3.00pm.

REGISTRATIONS CLOSE:
+ Sept 23, or when the limit of 30 players is reached.

CLINIC FEE:
+ $159 per player.

ON THE DAY:
+ Please make sure your child
– wears your club’s kit
– wears shin pads
– has a water bottle, snacks, & food as required.

September 13, 2024
George Georgiadis confirms departure

South Melbourne FC confirms that George Georgiadis has stepped away as Senior Head Coach for the 2025 season. George initially stepped in as a caretaker coach in 2022 and swiftly led our senior women to the Nike FC Cup Final. The pinnacle of his tenure was undoubtedly the 2023 season, where he inspired our team to clinch the NPLW Championship against Bulleen at The Home of the Matildas. This victory not only cemented his legacy as a championship-winning coach but also earned him a place in our Hall of Fame.

Despite the challenges of the 2024 season, George secured the Community Shield with a victory over Calder at Lakeside Stadium. Due to personal reasons, George has decided to step down from his role as senior coach.

SMFC Female Football Director Theo Chronis expressed gratitude for George’s commitment and contributions: “George took over during a challenging period for our women’s team, and within 12 months, he led us to a cup final and a historic NPLW win. George will always be a cherished member of the South family, remembered not only as a championship-winning coach but also as a mentor who supported the integration of youth players into the senior squad.

We wish him all the best for the future.

September 2, 2024
Australia Cup Ticket & Entry Information vs Wellington

South Melbourne vs. Wellington Ticket Update
Pre-Book Your Tickets to Avoid Lengthy Queues!

To ensure a smooth entry, we strongly recommend pre-booking your tickets via INTIX. Pre-booked ticket holders can use Gate 2 for quick and simple entry!

Tickets: Book Now

Date: Gates open from 5:30 PM

Gate 2: For pre-purchased tickets and scanning, cashless entry point

Futsal Entry: Limited sales (including cash sales), but we encourage those to buy online and avoid any lengthy queue.

Food and Drink: Available, including delicious gyros off the spit

Under 16: Free Entry (Must be accompanied by an adult)

Don’t miss out on the action! Pre-book your tickets and enjoy a hassle-free experience!

Additional Information

Parking: Paid public parking is available in and around Albert Park, including the main car park and areas surrounding the stadium.

Code of Conduct: Fans need to adhere to the Football Australia code of conduct.

Security: Fans will be bag-checked and wanded upon entry. CCTV will be in action for your safety.

Ensure you pre-book your tickets to enjoy a seamless experience and focus on the thrilling match ahead!

August 5, 2024
Andrew Mesourouni resigns from SMFC Board

South Melbourne FC announces the resignation of Andrew Mesourouni from the Board and his role as a Director of the club.

Andrew has been an invaluable member since joining the board 13 years ago, serving as Head of Youth Football and the club’s Football Director. Over the past decade, he has been a Major Sponsor and Major Principal Partner, including in 2024, supporting us through 1300 Plasta.

Andrew will continue to support the club as a Major Principal Partner and remain a friend to everyone at the club, where he has played a leading role over so many years and into the new era as we embark on the National Second Tier.

Nicholas Maikousis, President of South Melbourne FC, stated, “Andrew’s impact as both a board member and his involvement in our football programs over the past decade has created a lasting impact. We are immensely thankful for the time and effort he has dedicated to this club. We also thank him for his contributions and will continue to welcome him & his family with open arms as part of the broader South Melbourne family as a sponsor, fan, and dear friend.”

The club will put in place interim arrangements to support the Senior Men’s Football department in their quest for 4 major trophies.

We look forward to a bright future with the continued support of our community and the invaluable contributions of dedicated individuals like Andrew Mesourouni.

Andrew’s contribution will be more formally recognised & acknowledged at a future South event.Y

June 22, 2024
South appoint David Clarkson as Head of Community Football Programs

South Melbourne FC is pleased to announce that as part of its preparations for the National Second Tier commencement in 2025, we have appointed David Clarkson as our Head of Community Football Programs.

As well as being a Championship Winner and Hall of Fame member of South, David brings a wealth of experience in professional and community football, having worked in this field for the past decade. His experience includes roles within the A-League and various community football projects.

SMFC President Nicholas Maikousis expressed excitement about having David back at the club. “It’s exciting to have one of our own return, and expanding our involvement throughout the community across numerous projects and programs is something that excites us all. With the NST commencing in 2025, David is the first of many exciting announcements that we will be making over the next few months.”

We look forward to David’s contributions and are confident that his expertise will greatly benefit our community football initiatives. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a strong foundation for the future of South Melbourne FC.

June 14, 2024
Changes to Miniroos Technical Director, Thank You Younes

We wish to advise players and parents in our MiniRoos program that Younes Boudis will be relocating full time to Europe next month with his family.

Whilst Younes will still be in the role of MiniRoos TD until then we would like to take this opportunity to thank Younes for his hard work and dedication to the role and great energy and insight he has brought to the program over the last 3 years.

On behalf of everyone at SMFC in particular the coaching staff we wish Younes a successful transition with his family into Europe and success with the opportunities that will provide him.

Younes will remain in contact with the Club and we look forward to following his journey.

As a result of the changes the Club has been in discussion with several suitable candidates to take on the vacating role of MiniRoos TD over several weeks.

It is our pleasure to announce Sam Poutakidis (former NSL senior footballer and current u/23s Men’s coach to the role.)

Many of you may already know Sam from his playing days and as former TD for our powerful Women’s program.

Sam is excited to take on the position and continue the blue print established by the Club. He will now doubt bring some new perspectives and ideas to the players and coaches in the program.

We welcome Sam to our program and look forward to continued player development.

May 29, 2024
Match and Ticket Information for Preston Game

BUY TICKETS HERE

We look forward to welcoming football loving fans to what will be a great game between two great clubs ahead of the NST.

To ensure everyone has a great experience we will be providing a number of information updates about behaviour, online ticketing, car parking, entry and pavilion access.

Online ticket sales to be released by both clubs $10 adults, $7 children under 13 and pensioners/concession with ID only

Τhere will be NO PASS-OUTS

Kick off 8:00pm

Gates open strictly at 5pm

Main gate entry – all supporters may enter

North Grandstand gates from junior ground is for Preston Supporters only

North side and grandstand: Preston active zone, Preston supporters to wait 15 minutes post game – no exit.

South side goal next to major entry: South Melbourne Active Zone

*South supporters to be given 15 minutes post game to leave precinct

Wanding, bag and identification checks, as well as face identification, the clubs and FV reserve the right go refuse entry – a zero tolerance policy will be in place

Face covering and balaclavas will not be permitted

We look forward to hosting a range of FA, FV, NST, Government & Council representatives at this showcase.

Victoria Police, security, surveillance operators as well as marshals from both clubs will be positioned around the ground

Police and security patrols around precinct

Car entry to the ground via Broadhurst Ave will close at 6:45pm

Medic at entry

Behavioural Codes of Conduct Apply

Club banners only to be approved by respective clubs which includes no national flags, no national symbols and no flag poles

All entrants will be scanned, bags checked and wanding

Additional food and beverage stands will be set up

Additional portaloos

Please use the bins and help us keep venue clean

Game will be live-streamed

Red or Blue face painting for children under 12 upon entry

NO SMOKING / VAPING VENUE

Please help the clubs in any way you can by being patient and courteous. Please thank our volunteers.

May 18, 2024
South come back to win away in Dandenong

In an intense encounter, South Melbourne secured a vital away victory against Dandenong Thunder. The match showcased moments of brilliance, missed opportunities, and ultimately decisive goals.

The game began with South Melbourne displaying early dominance, testing Dandenong Thunder’s defense repeatedly. Pierce Clark, the former South Melbourne goalkeeper turned out to be a formidable obstacle, denying South Melbourne’s attempts on goal.

Despite South Melbourne’s early pressure, they found themselves trailing in the 23rd minute when Birkan Kirdar of Dandenong Thunder exhibited exceptional skill to navigate through South Melbourne’s defense and slot the ball past Javi Lopez, leaving the South Melbourne goalkeeper helpless.

Undeterred by the setback, South Melbourne mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. Just a minute into the half, their captain Harrison Sawyer was fouled inside the penalty area, leading to a penalty. Sawyer confidently converted the spot-kick, leveling the score for his team.

The second half saw South Melbourne continuing to press forward, creating several promising opportunities. Halfpenny, Peios, Archibald, and Bonada all came close to scoring, but were unable to find the crucial breakthrough.

However, South Melbourne’s perseverance paid off in the 79th minute when Ross Archibald capitalised on a loose ball in the penalty area following a free kick, securing the lead for his team and sending the traveling fans into jubilation.

Despite both teams having chances in the closing minutes of the game, South Melbourne held on to their lead, emerging as deserving winners in Dandenong. The victory would undoubtedly serve as a morale booster for South Melbourne, while Dandenong Thunder would rue missed opportunities.

April 7, 2024