South Melbourne FC has restructured its leadership, appointing Andrew Mesourouni and Bill Papastergiadis as Co-Presidents.
The move marks the first time the club has opted for joint presidents, a change it says is needed to meet increased demands as it prepares for three major competitions — the National Second Tier later this month, the FIFA Oceania Professional League in January, and the NPL Victoria season soon after.
Both men are long-time board members, with Mesourouni previously serving as Football Director and Papastergiadis as Head of Legal and Chairman.
In the club announcement on social media, Mesourouni said the dual presidency was about unity and bringing the club together.
“It’s time. Hellas must truly unite behind the strength of its badge and proud history. For the first time in our history, unity will be on display with two Presidents sharing responsibility alongside a passionate Board of Directors,” he said.
“This is not about any individual but about one Club coming together, members and fans, young and old, united by love and respect for our great Club.
“Together, we will rise, both in football and in community values, as a home for all.”
Papastergiadis called it a “privilege” and emphasised the need to position South Melbourne at the forefront of a changing football landscape.
“It is a privilege to serve at this historic Club, whose record of history and success in Australian football is unmatched,” he said.
“We must respect the contributions of all who came before us, including Nick Maikousis.
“Alongside Andrew, our focus will be to deliver the best possible football product for our supporters.
“Football in Australia is undergoing significant change, and we want Hellas to be at the forefront of this new era.”
The rest of the board remains unchanged, including Peter Kokotis, Tass Roufos, Tony Margaritis, Mario Vinaccia, Nicole Jacobs, Ashley Maikousis, Theo Chronis, Andrew Mesourouni, Bill Papastergiadis, Bill Panayotou, Steve Kyriazis and Nathan McLean
