There has been a joy overload from both South Melbourne and Sydney Olympic following the announcement of their inclusion in the National Second Tier, with Hellas President Nicholas Maikousis emphatically stating it represents the “renaissance” of their club.
The two Hellenic sides were among the eight teams announced by Football Australia on Monday as part of the inaugural National Second Tier set to commence in 2025.
The presidents of both clubs released public statements on the teams’ respective social media pages expressing their pleasure with this development, with Mr Maikousis calling their return to national competition a “long time coming” for the South Melbourne family.
He noted that 2025 would mark the end of two decades in the NPL system and that, though it has proved fruitful for them, there is endless excitement in competing once more in a country-wide league.
“We have celebrated success in Victoria, but it is time for us to return to our rightful place on the national stage,” Mr Maikousis said.
“Our members and supporters expect us to be competing at this level and I’m proud we have reached the point where the current and next generation of South fans can experience it with their family and friends.”
The Hellas President recognised the tireless efforts from a small team of dedicated individuals who worked behind the scenes with Football Australia to get the club to this point.
“I’d like to acknowledge their efforts together with our board, staff, sponsors and other stakeholders,” he said.
“The club will continue its work with Football Australia on the operational details of the new National Second Tier over the coming months. We will continue to share information about the new competition with our members and supporters as it becomes available.”
He concluded by saying that their inclusion in the NST “represents the renaissance of a great and historic club” and that they “look forward to celebrating with the entire South Melbourne FC community”.
Sydney Olympic President Damon echoed the elation of Mr Maikousis in respect to his own club, stating in the Belmore side’s official announcement on social media:
“We wish to thank our fans, members and the entire community of our incredible club. This is a huge milestone for Sydney Olympic FC and one that would not have been achieved without your support.”
Heidelberg United revealed that at this stage they have not submitted an application to register for the NST.
We will have to wait to see how the situation develops for Alexandros in the future, whether they opt to stay out completely or submit an application next year to be one of the additional two-four clubs planned to join the other eight selected so far.
The hope from football fans nationwide is that the National Second Tier does indeed represent the renaissance, not just yet for Hellas and these other clubs but for the sport in general.
