With a history that dates back to 1968, Pankyprios is a club steeped in tradition and success. From their devoted fanbase to their impressive trophy case – the club has stood the test of time.
However, even the most accomplished clubs can hit rough patches, and after a dismal 2023 season, the Greens found themselves at the bottom of the standings and relegated to the VPL1. In an attempt to arrest the decline the club’s board brought on the experienced and very respected coach, George Katsakis, who comes with a wealth of knowledge from his time at Heidelberg United.
Despite a transitional year, the team showed promise under Katsakis’ leadership and finished in a respectable eighth place in the standings.
Now, with eleven new players signed to the roster, the board is determined to make a comeback and climb their way back to the top division, the NPL.
It’s a new season and a new team, and the Greens want to show Victoria they are a force to be reckoned with.
We talked to George Katsakis, who wasted no time in declaring the top priority for the upcoming season is earning a promotion to the NPL.
“This club, being one of the most successful clubs in Victoria, should compete in the NPL, full stop. We belong there and this season, as a team, we will do everything in our power to bring the club to its deserving level. “Although winning the promotion won’t be a simple task, it is certainly our goal.”
As with last season, Coach Katsakis will again face his good friend and fellow coach, Con Tangalakis of Kingston City.
“I can say a lot about these matches. Con and I are more than friends; we are also partners.
“As you can imagine, these matches will be the cause of teasing and jokes. I am definitely excited for them, as I am sure they will bring us games full of excitement and authentic football suspense. It will be a good fight.”
The football players and coaches who continuously strive to improve the team’s systems and tactics for the upcoming season always find the summer training period challenging. So far, Katsakis appears satisfied with his team’s preparation.
“The pre-season is going very well. The returning players are starting to bond with the new players and it appears that they are forming a team that will approach every match with determination.
“We have already played two friendly matches, and I can confidently say that our performance was quite impressive. We tied 1-1 with Box Hill United, and a few days later we defeated Preston Lions 3-2. Preston Lions is expected to excel in the NPL championship this year.”
Which players will shine the brightest on this freshly built roster?
“We have a lot of talented football players. Our leader on the field will surely be Leigh Broxman, a top-level player who can make a significant impact in our league. I also have high expectations for Andy Zahra, who we recently signed and has already shown his worth and exceptional skills while playing for Heidelberg United.”
The previous year’s VPL1 season ended with a bang as Melbourne Victory NPL clinched the title and earned promotion to NPL Victoria.
Victory’s young and talented squad showed off their skills and solidified their reputation as one of the top academies in Australia.
However, with the departure of Melbourne Victory Youth, the VPL1 landscape has undergone a massive transformation.
Now, a few teams are vying for the coveted title, but who will stand out remains a mystery.
As they say, fortune favors the bold, and in the unpredictable world of football, anything can happen.
With the new season just around the corner, excitement and anticipation fill the air. It’s like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get.
Neos Kosmos will be right here to bring you all the latest updates on your favorite clubs.
