Alex Wilkinson: A life after football with Sydney FC

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Images supplied by Sydney FC

Many professional footballers face a harsh reality when their playing careers come to an end.

So entrenched in the weekly routine of training and playing, they find it difficult to adjust to a new way of life without the activity which has dominated their lives and provided their livelihood.

Not so for Alex Wilkinson – the former Northern Spirit, Central Coast, Sydney FC and Socceroo defender who was earmarked for a career in football management at least five years ago by the management of Sydney FC.

As the club captain, he exhibited extraordinary leadership skills and always expressed a desire to be involved in the game after his playing career finished.

Furthermore, his contribution for a number of years as the President of Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) clearly indicated his interest in supporting players during their careers and was a natural progression to football management.

Consequently, it’s no co-incidence since his appointment as Head of Football Operations in July 2023, that Sydney FC are entering a period of renewed strength both on and off the field.

In this interview with Roger Sleeman, Alex Wilkinson discusses his role at Sydney FC, the new era for the club and other key issues in the game.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – NOVEMBER 20: Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC heads a shot at goal during the A-League match between Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney FC at CommBank Stadium, on November 20, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

ROGER SLEEMAN

Reflecting on your extensive football career, do you miss playing, and did you envisage a successful transition to your current position  at Sydney FC?

ALEX WILKINSON

I was lucky to have such a long, playing experience and if you had said to me when I was a 16 or 17 year old I would play at the top level for 21 years, I would’ve been happy with that.

I was fortunate to play with some outstanding performers, good teams and win some trophies.

Obviously, playing for the Socceroos was the pinnacle which gave me a great sense of pride.

Critically, if I could go back in time there are no regrets but the ball also rolled with me as I had very few injuries and the right coaches at the right time.

So many players with ample ability don’t necessarily have long careers either due to injuries, unfavourable coaches or luck just not going their way.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 30: Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC lifts the A League Trophy after the 2020 A-League Grand Final match between Sydney FC and Melbourne City at Bankwest Stadium on August 30, 2020 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

R.S.

Can you elaborate on your duties and responsibilities as Head of Football Operations?

A.W.

For the last few years, retirement was on my mind but I had no desire to follow a coaching career.

I was more interested in the business side of the game so I undertook a degree in sports management and coaching.

During this process, I sat down with club management to discuss a future role which led to my current position.

I’m also very close to completing my MBA which has been of major assistance in my role.

The role involves looking after A-League squad member requirements, helping the Academy players transition into a full time environment and some involvement with the women’s squads.

For the Academy players progressing to the senior squad, it’s important they adjust to full time football, especially if they’ve moved away from home.

I assist them to have a stable life off the field which provides for better on field success.

R.S.

Since you commenced the role in July 2023, are you achieving your objectives?

A.W.

Wanting to cement a place in the business space of football, after 20 years as a player is a great challenge starting from scratch.

However, at Sydney FC the job has been made easier through my constant liaison with the football, marketing and media departments.

R.S.

Under the leadership of Ufuk Talay, the club is really capturing the attention of the football community.

How much input have you contributed to this success?

A.W.

It was a hard act for Talay to follow Steve Corica with three grand finals, a premiership and FA Cup.

However, he has brought a different way of playing and a definite style to the playing group. After 17 weeks in, the players are benefiting which is showing with the great run of wins and elevation up the table.

I’m confident in his playing methods and the players are enjoying it , even with the physical demands of pressing and how high up the park he wants them to play.

Opponents are finding difficulty with the relentless pressing , denying them time on the ball and consequent, increased turnover.

Dave Zdrilic has also made a major contribution with the critical experience he has gained overseas.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 16: Nicolai Muller of the Wanderers shoots under pressure from Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC during the A-League match between Sydney FC and the Western Sydney Wanderers FC at ANZ Stadium, on January 16, 2021, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Mark Kolbe/Getty Images)

R.S.

Are you happy with the transition of youth team players into the first team since your appointment?

A.W.

This year, especially, the young players are getting greater game time and you can watch the ceiling of their performance increase accordingly.

It doesn’t always work smoothly but we’re getting results now.

The jump from the Academy to senior football can’t be underestimated but its working for them and the club now.

R.S.

Which of the new players have made a big impact in the team?

A.W.

Jake Girdwood-Reich who isn’t even a centre back has really shone, Corey Holman has taken like a duck to water in the number six role and has the ability after ball winning to mount attacks. Jordan Courtney Perkins is making great strides in the left back position for the injured Joel King, even though he was previously a centre back, Hayden Matthews has shown great promise in the last few matches and Jaiden Kucharski is a great talent who scored 20 goals last year in NPL and is knocking on the door to play regularly.

R.S.

How important is Joe Lolley to the current run of Sydney FC?

A.W.

Lolley’s contribution has been critical to the team and I believe he’s been the best player in the A-League this season.

Under Talay, he’s taken his game to a new level with work ethic and desire to win the ball back.

His dribbling ability is unquestionable and the killer ball, shots on goal and one on one duels are a feature of his game.

R.S.

How closely do you work with Talay and Zdrilic?

A.W.

The football department is really working well and although I’m not out on the training ground every day, when I’m not in the office, I try to be there as much as possible.

The culture within the football department is solid so the coaching staff will listen to my input.

Both Talay and Zdrilic will let you make suggestions and they’re not close minded.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – JANUARY 12: Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC kicks during the FFA Cup Quarter Final match between Sydney FC and Brisbane Roar at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on January 12, 2022 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)

R.S.

What was your take on the 4-1 win in the Sydney derby two weeks ago?

A.W.

A demolition and one of the better wins for Sydney FC over the years.

From the first minute we showed we wanted it more and were more aggressive and dominant.

They couldn’t get out of their half in the first 10 minutes and after we scored the two early goals, it was virtually all over.

We didn’t sit back after scoring those two goals and Talay has encouraged the players to be relentless, create pressure and aggressiveness which led to the third and fourth goals.

The pace of our game is really upsetting opposition which happened in this game so all we have to do is maintain consistency for the rest of the season.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 10: Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC in action during the Australia Cup Rd of 16 match between Bentleigh Greens SC and Sydney FC at Kingston Heath Soccer Complex on August 10, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Graham Denholm/Getty Images)

R.S.

Does Sydney FC have the potential to become a super club like Melbourne Victory and the Wanderers?

A.W.

I think we’re already there but while the salary cap is present, it’s difficult for teams to maintain this status. When players want to be rewarded, it’s hard to pay them more so they leave the club. Therefore, you have to have this production line in constant motion to keep the club at the top of the ladder.

Overseas clubs can see the value of Australian players so if clubs like ours can continue to produce quality players through our Academy, we have a great source of revenue.

Also, fans want to see young players who have no fear, more than happy to dribble and take opponents on. As the players develop and they have opportunities overseas, the regular income stream for the club is guaranteed and the national team also benefits.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – OCTOBER 08: Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC passes during the round one A-League Men’s match between Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory at Allianz Stadium, on October 08, 2022, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

R.S.

How did you regard the Socceroos performance in the Asian Cup?

A.W.

Great success in the last World Cup but the Asian Cup was disappointing, especially when we should’ve beaten South Korea.

However, the Asian countries are well ahead us in terms of investment in the game and in 10-15 years if we don’t invest more, they will be the favourites when we play against them.

R.S.

As immediate past President of the PFA, are we utilising the abilities of past players sufficiently?

A.W.

Probably not, but just because they played shouldn’t guarantee them a position.

The PFA has a past players program which players can access to find jobs plus well being initiatives.

In the business side of sport, the former players need to be qualified rather than being appointed because they played the game.

We need to grow the professional game so more money is attracted and an increase in A-League teams would provide more opportunities for former players in coaching and administration.

Notwithstanding, the transition from playing to the real world of football business can be difficult and I’m living it now.

However, I fully support the introduction of greater input and influence from former players.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 11: Alex Wilkinson of Sydney FC celebrates winning the round 16 A-League Men’s match between Western Sydney Wanderers and Sydney FC at CommBank Stadium, on February 11, 2023, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

R.S.

What is your opinion of the proposed National Second Division?

A.W.

It will certainly create more opportunity for players at semi-professional level and will bring more money into the game.

Also, with the proposed broadcast deal for the Socceroos, Matildas and National Second Division, it would be ideal if the clubs received some funding from this package to boost their operations.

In saying that, there will be significant costs with interstate travel, accommodation and general overheads.

There is also the question of promotion and relegation which seems to be in the too hard basket.

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Football Has the Audience. Does It Have the Commercial Strategy?

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Image Credit: One Nil Media

Soccerscene has launched Survey 4: Commercial Confidence in Football, calling on clubs, sponsors, governing bodies, commercial leaders and football industry professionals to assess whether the game is making the most of its enormous commercial potential.

Football has the audience, participation base and community reach to be one of Australia’s most powerful commercial platforms. But does the industry have the commercial strategy, professionalism and infrastructure required to turn that potential into sustainable growth?

That is the question at the centre of Soccerscene’s latest industry research.

The survey examines how attractive grassroots football is to potential commercial partners, what industry professionals believe is limiting football’s commercial potential, and whether clubs are presenting themselves professionally enough to sponsors.

It also explores what sponsors value most when engaging with football – from community reach and participation scale to brand alignment, values and purpose – as well as whether improved facilities could directly contribute to stronger sponsorship outcomes.

Is football fully capitalising on its commercial opportunity?

Football continues to provide brands with access to highly engaged communities across grassroots, community and elite environments. Yet the commercial landscape remains fragmented, with clubs operating with vastly different levels of resources, capability, governance, media infrastructure and commercial expertise.

Soccerscene’s survey is designed to capture the industry’s perspective on where the opportunities exist – and where football may be leaving commercial value on the table.

The research will look specifically at four key areas:

  • Commercial attractiveness – How attractive is grassroots football as a commercial partnership?
  • Commercial barriers – What is holding football back from reaching its full commercial potential?
  • Club professionalism – Are clubs presenting themselves effectively and professionally to sponsors?
  • Sponsor value – What are sponsors really looking for when they invest in football?

The survey also asks whether better facilities would have a direct impact on sponsorship outcomes, highlighting the potential relationship between infrastructure, commercial presentation and investment.

Have your say

Soccerscene is encouraging football clubs, sponsors, commercial professionals, governing bodies, administrators, media professionals and industry stakeholders to participate.

The findings will contribute to Soccerscene’s ongoing program of industry research, designed to provide a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities facing football and the organisations operating within it.

Take the Survey: Commercial Confidence in Football

Complete the Commercial Confidence in Football Survey here

The survey will close on 30 August 2026 at midnight, with responses received before the deadline included in the final analysis.

Football has the audience. The question is whether it has the commercial strategy to match.

“Break the ceiling”: South Melbourne’s A-League ambition

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Image Credits: South Melbourne FC

South Melbourne is knocking on the A-League’s door again. The four-time National Soccer League champions formally signalled their intention to enter the A-Leagues earlier this month, opening discussions with the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) over potential A-League Men’s and Women’s licences. The timing was significant; the announcement came a day after the APL terminated Western United’s licence.

But South Melbourne’s ambitions are bigger than simply replacing Western United. The club and its co-president, Bill Papastergiadis, believe its recent success has demonstrated that it is ready for professional football once again. South won the inaugural Australian Championship in 2025, is competing professionally in the Oceania Professional League and has continued to make its mark in the Australia Cup, including a 2-1 victory over Adelaide United in July.

Time to open up

For co-president Bill Papastergiadis, however, the push is ultimately about something bigger than South Melbourne.

“The aspirations of South Melbourne, regarding A-League football, are not just a story about South Melbourne. It’s a story for the football public and the football community,” Papastergiadis said.

“It’s a story for all of us because football is a metaphor for life’s aspirations and football revolves around the ability to inspire, to improve, and to succeed.”

Papastergiadis believes the current structure of Australian football has created a ceiling for clubs outside the A-Leagues, one that limits ambition and, ultimately, competition.

“At the moment, the glass ceiling stifles that competition and stifles those aspirations, and at that upper level, and it’s to its detriment,” he said.

South Melbourne’s argument is closely tied to the history of the NSL, when clubs could be promoted and relegated based on their performances rather than being permanently separated into different tiers. Papastergiadis remembers the intensity that came with that system when South resided in the top flight of Australian football.

“I myself remember the intensity of the matches for the clubs that were in the relegation zone. Back then during the National Soccer League,” he said.

“It keeps clubs on their toes. Everyone is engaged when they know that there are ramifications for their actions and conduct. If there are no ramifications for that, how do you have accountability?”

That philosophy sits at the heart of South Melbourne’s A-League push. The club does not simply want to join the existing system; it wants to challenge the idea that the highest level of Australian football should be closed off from the rest of the pyramid. South Melbourne won the inaugural Australian Championship but, unlike in other systems, is not rewarded with top-flight football. The club has continued strongly in 2026, knocking out A-League side Adelaide United in the Australia Cup.

South Melbourne and Bill Papastergiadis celebrate a win in the Australia Cup Image Credits: Bill Papastergiadis

“Where is it in the football dictionary that winning a title doesn’t give you the opportunity to progress within the football pyramid?” Papastergiadis asked.

“All of the matches involving A-League clubs have been incredibly tight, and the majority of them were knocked out in the earlier rounds by numerous NPL clubs.

“So we can compete on the field; our crowds in the Australian Championship were comparable to some of the A-League crowds, quite often far better.”

That, he argues, makes South Melbourne a viable proposition.

“We are a viable option. It’s time to open up football and give it back to the public. The public deserves it, and it belongs to everyone.”

A familiar ambition

This is not the first time South Melbourne has tried to enter the A-League.

The club was overlooked when the competition was established in the mid-2000s and again in 2018, when the licence ultimately went to Western United. The latest attempt therefore carries history. The club that missed out on the opportunity to join the A-League in 2018 is now pursuing a place in the competition following Western United’s exit. But Papastergiadis is reluctant to predict what happens next. For now, South Melbourne has done what it believes it needs to do: start the conversation.

“It’s very early for me to comment on our prospects in relation to the A-League at this point,” he said.

“What we’ve simply done is done the appropriate thing, which is to write to the APL. Advise of our intention, advise of our interest.

“It’s in their hands to tell us if they’re interested in this story, if they’re interested in this outcome, and if they’re interested in this conversation.”

Papastergiadis has already briefly spoken with APL chief executive Steve Rosich, who responded to South Melbourne’s initial approach.

“I had a conversation with Steve Rosich. He responded to our letter immediately, and we spoke on the phone, and it was courteous,” Papastergiadis said.

“We advised of our intention. He thanked us for that. I indicated that we would progress to provide more formal document and he said he’ll wait to see that.

South Melbourne is ready to make their bid Image Credits: Greek Herald

There is no guarantee that South Melbourne will receive a licence, and Papastergiadis is clear that the next step is not entirely in the club’s hands.

“There is no certainty in this process,” Papastergiadis said.

“If you don’t ask, you don’t get. It’s up to Football Australia too, to show us the path forward. We need a path forward, and it’s up to the governing body to also work with us.”

The sustainability for Melbourne

The collapse of Western United has inevitably changed the context around South Melbourne’s bid.

Western United announced that the APL had terminated its participation agreement on August 10, while saying it would seek new ownership and a pathway back into the A-League. The club also emphasised the importance of maintaining a professional football presence in Melbourne’s west and continuing its academy and community programs. South Melbourne is now one of the clubs looking towards the opening created by Western United’s departure. But Papastergiadis does not celebrate another club’s demise.

Western United’s fans are left without an A-League club Image Credits: AAP

“I do want to make the point that I’m not happy about any club folding,” he said.

“I believe in football and in the football product, and I believe in football clubs.

For the players from juniors to senior levels, they must be gutted at Western United. Their administration staff, their coaching staff, they must all be gutted. So I feel for them.”

It is a notable distinction. South Melbourne’s ambition may have been reignited by the circumstances surrounding Western United. But for South there is a new opportunity to add to Melbourne football rather than take something away from it. The prospect of South Melbourne joining Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory in the A-League would immediately raise questions about whether the market could sustain another club.

A benefit to all

Papastergiadis has little doubt and points to Melbourne’s size, sporting culture and existing interest in football as reasons for optimism.

“Absolutely. We won’t cannibalise the football-attending public. We will increase it.” He said.

“There is significant potential within the Melbourne market. We reside in the largest city in Australia, and we reside in the sporting capital of Australia, if not the world.

“We will add to the fabric of football and will increase the attendance through derbies. It’s a positive.”

That is ultimately the argument behind South Melbourne’s latest attempt to break into the A-League. The club believes the benefits would extend beyond Lakeside Stadium. South Melbourne’s recent Australian Championship success, professional status in Oceania and strong performances against A-League opposition strengthen it’s case. NPL clubs can compete at the highest level, even if promotion and relegation remain off the table.

For now, South Melbourne can only wait. The APL and Football Australia will determine whether that football product has earned it a place at the top table. But Papastergiadis believes the question is worth asking, not just for South Melbourne, but for Australian football itself.

“Whatever South can achieve in regards to breaking through that glass barrier, then that’s not just the win for South, but it’s a win for football across the board.”

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