Alex Wilkinson: A life after football with 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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Exclusive Interview with President of PLFC David Cvetkovski: How Preston Lions and the NST format are reviving Australian football’s heart and soul

The National Second Tier competition is taking on a different approach from the traditionally planned home-and-away format, with Football Australia announcing it will be a ‘Champions League’ style format starting in October 2025.

With the introduction of this format, Football Australia announced the following in regards to fixturing:

– NPL season will conclude in September before all clubs take three weeks off in preparation.

– In October, they will move in to the nationwide NST format involving the eight foundation clubs.

– There will be a group stage where the final positions will determine the fixtures for the Quarter Finals stage followed by the Semi-finals and Final which will wrap up by December.

– It will be a precursor to a full home-and-away NST.

For historic clubs like Preston Lions, one of the eight foundation clubs getting involved next season, it provides an opportunity to take that next step towards professionalism and bring back the passion that football has been missing in the top flight.

In a conversation with Soccerscene, Preston Lions President David Cvetkovski touched on several important topics surrounding the recent announcement.

He discussed the financial success of the Preston Lions, how the new format is enhancing the development of young talent, the importance of preserving the traditions of clubs founded by migrant communities, and the need to celebrate these historic ethnic clubs by bringing people together as a united football community.

PLFC’s Financial success

Preston Lions have emerged as one of Australia’s most successful football clubs, known for drawing massive crowds, strong merchandise sales, and a dedicated membership base. But what’s the secret behind their financial success, and how have they set the blueprint for other clubs moving into the NST?

Club president David Cvetkovski attributes this success to identifying and maximising key revenue streams that go beyond just match-day ticket sales.

“The key pillar of our strategy was to pinpoint the main revenue areas for football clubs—not just ours, but for all clubs,” he said.

“The success started by elevating the gameday experience for football fans, who on average might spend $20-25 dollars on a Canadian Club, chips and Kebapi roll so there’s a $25 to $55 per head potential there when the product is right.

“We then went to sponsors, we have 120+ sponsors but what’s the value proposition for them? What’s the merchandise like? Well the improvement in our merchandise sales in the last four years is incredible. What we’ve done is provide custom ranges that our merchandise team have designed the T-shirts that people enjoy. We love the fact that every Preston supporter has a Preston garment.”

Cvetkovski emphasised that match-day revenue is only part of the equation. “Every club has loyal supporters, but how can they buy that hoodie or Canadian Club or Kebapi at the right price? Because canteen and gates revenue make clubs but merchandise and sponsors elevate them” he continued.

“It’s no secret that we have the biggest attendance figures in Victorian football and with the South game, we had over 6,000 people, and we had an online portal to capture ticket sales so we’ve been innovative in driving the key revenue streams otherwise without it, you’re at risk as a club.”

David Cvetkovski at the 2024 Preston in Business launch event. (Image credit: Preston Lions Football Club Facebook)

NST format improving player development

The introduction of the new NST format is providing clubs with greater flexibility to secure player contracts and create optimal conditions for their development.

While Australia continues to produce top-tier talent, the path to recapturing the golden generation of 2006 lies in ensuring that the NST system allows players to focus on football full-time.

Cvetkovski highlighted how this change will transform clubs like Preston and others, offering younger players more opportunities to shine on the biggest stages.

“From a footballer’s perspective, I have to usually contract them for 26 weeks in VPL1, next year in NPL1  would’ve been 26 weeks + potentially three finals so 29 games, but with the NST I’ve been able to contract and take better care of both our young and mature footballers,” he said.

“They’re now being contracted for 40 plus weeks of games but they also need to do 8 weeks of preseason so it’s over 40 weeks. This makes football richer, not only financially, but us being able to play younger kids.

“40% of our team is under 23 years of age. The A-League this weekend had heaps of kids involved because of the budget reduction and this  is fantastic for the game. How do we create a platform for kids to play and let these kids find out at 22, 23 or 24 that they are still a baller.

“Look at Jordy Bos who played through the City academy, broke through at 18 almost 19 and played a few years before making a move to Belgium and now he’s playing for the Socceroos at 21. We need 17 Jordy Bos’ in the Australian team, that’s a generation! and Preston are following the same path,” he concluded.

Return of cultural heritage

During the transition from the NSL to the creation of the A-League, many of today’s NPL clubs boasted a proud history of players and staff representing their cultural heritage with passion.

These clubs served as symbols of identity, reflecting not just individual families but entire communities, offering a sense of belonging through football.

Cvetkovski is committed to preserving these traditions at Preston, ensuring that the club’s strong Macedonian roots remain a core part of its identity as they move forward whilst also encouraging the other NPL clubs to work together to achieve the same goal.

“It is the first time in a while, that we have signed 6 or 7 Macedonian boys to stay true to our heritage, the response from supporters, sponsors and members has been incredible and I’m encouraging other clubs like Avondale, Knights, Heidelberg, South [Melbourne] etc to do the same,” he said.

“You can’t get away from South’s Greek community or Marconi’s Italian community and this makes the fabric of the game richer.

“People ask why is Preston so successful? Because we stay true to our community in one sense, yes, we’re Australian but how good is the multicultural landscape of Australian football!

“I want to work together with our rivals, who are also our friends, so that when Preston plays away at these grounds, they make money.

“There’s no secret to enjoying a game. We go there, have a few drinks and something to eat on a Friday or Sunday night out and watch a good game, it’s entertaining. We’re in the entertainment business at the end of the day.”

Cvetkovski at Preston vs Pascoe Vale 2023 (Image credit: Preston Lions Football Club Facebook)

Uniting the many cultures in Australian football

These historic ethnic clubs, built by migrant communities with a deep love for football, are making a significant return to the mainstream.

They represent the foundation upon which the beautiful game in Australia was built, and the generational loyalty fans have for their local clubs and communities is finally being recognised again.

Cvetkovski passionately spoke about the importance of uniting all cultures in the top flight of football, regardless of background, to celebrate the shared love of the game and foster a sense of community across the sport.

“There’s opportunity to respect the cultural backgrounds of the clubs. I think we went too far towards cleansing the game but the migrant story of Australia is something that should be celebrated,” he said.

“My best friends are Greek, Italian, Croatian,  Bosnian, I don’t care, do I? I’ll sit in any coffee shop; I don’t care where I sit. Let’s bring that friendship to football.

“The new way of thinking is making it about the game, removing any political agendas and making football the star.

“The South [Melbourne] game there was no animosity, there was nothing but celebration of football between two communities who traditionally are rivals.

“They realise now they have a lot more to lose if they get it wrong versus working with each other to make it right,” he concluded.

David Cvetkovski with Football Australia (Image credit: Preston Lions Football Club Facebook)

Football Australia is beginning to recognise that the true beating heart of the game lies with these foundation clubs, which have not only survived but thrived since the dissolution of the NSL.

Their passion, rich history, and deep-rooted respect are unmatched in Australian football and this announcement signals an exciting new era for fans across the country.

If the South Melbourne vs Preston match earlier this year is any indication, the spirit of the game is well and truly alive, bringing back the sense of unity and pride that Australian football has been missing.

More on the details of the newly announced NST here.

Shepparton Cup 2024: The largest junior football tournament goes from strength to strength

The Shepparton Cup was conducted over the weekend, with the event being the largest weekend junior football tournament ever held in Australia.

The 3-day event was a huge overall success, with a record breaking 313 teams competing in the tournament across 21 divisions.

Matches were spread across 38 pitches at Mooroopna Recreation Reserve, Shepparton Sports City, Rumbalara and Wanganui Oval.

With around 4,000 players participating, 755 matches were played over the weekend – with finals matches concluding the event on Sunday.

“It was the biggest and smoothest tournament we’ve ever ran in our 17-year history,” Australian Football Skool (AFS) Director Rolando Navas told Soccerscene.

“There was of course really good football on show across the age groups and great sportsmanship, which was fantastic to see.

“I think the message is getting through about how important it is to provide a positive environment for kids to play sport in. It was pleasing to see everybody there, both players and parents/supporters, had a good time.”

Navas estimates that there were well over 12,500 people attending the event across both venues over the weekend, providing a giant boost to the local Shepparton area.

“You are talking about a wide range of people who are, at a minimum, staying in the city of Shepparton or close by for two nights,” he said.

“The economic impact was massive.”

Economic activity at Shepparton Cup – Image Credit: One Nil Media

Director for Sustainable Development at Greater Shepparton City Council, Geraldine Christou, further explained the greater benefits the tournament had on the local community.

“Australia’s largest junior weekend football tournament right here in Greater Shepparton showcases the strength of our community spirit and our capacity to host major events that bring joy, talent, and visitors to our region,” she stated.

“The economic benefit of this tournament is immense with an estimated $3 to $4 million generated for the region, supporting our local businesses and creating lasting memories for thousands of young athletes and their families.

The Greater Shepparton City Council’s Parks, Sport and Recreation team played a big hand in the organisation of the tournament, which included looking after the setup of pitches to the placement of goals at the venues.

Football Victoria CEO Chris Pehlivanis, who attended the tournament over the course of the weekend, was impressed with the execution of it.

“I’m proud of the whole tournament, it was an amazing opportunity to come down here to Shepparton and see lots of boys and girls playing football and playing lots of games,” he stated at the event.

“I think most kids had six, seven, eight games which is an amazing opportunity and not only that, there was amazing organisation.

“Everyone should be extremely proud of what they have achieved here this weekend…the logistics, everything was run smoothly…the referees were great and all the parents and participants were great.”

Kids at play during the Shepparton Cup – Image Credit: One Nil Media

The Shepparton Cup has continued to grow exponentially over the years, initially starting with just 30 teams in the inaugural tournament in 2007.

This year’s edition also featured a wide range of off the field activities that contributed to a carnival like atmosphere. There was live music, on stage entertainment, food trucks, a fun zone for players and families.

Navas detailed to Soccerscene that the enormity of the event was not lost on him and is investigating ways to make the competition better in the near future.

“(The growth of the event has been) overwhelming, compared to many of the previous years. It was the biggest by far this year and there was a great positivity around it.

“The plan is to not necessarily make it bigger in the future, just to tweak it and add more to it and make it a better experience for everyone.

“I’d love to be able to attract some more international teams, we are looking at that to see how we can get some of the Asian teams to come across to the event.

“This would be fantastic, as it would show the kids here how football is played in different parts of the world. The way we look at things is ‘if I was 10- or 12-years-old what would I want this tournament be?’

“That’s what drives a lot of our thinking and ultimately our initiatives. It’s important to us because if the kids have a good experience, they’re going to become better players and better people because of it.

“We’ve also received some really good information from the feedback surveys we put out, which is very beneficial in shaping the tournament suitably in future editions.”

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