South Melbourne FC land important sponsor in Directed Group

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Image credit: South Melbourne FC website

In a significant boost ahead of their National Second Division (NSD) campaign, South Melbourne FC has secured a major partnership with technology giant Directed Group for the 2025 season.

The partnership sees the consumer electronics and enterprise technology leader join forces with one of Australia’s most decorated football clubs, bringing their extensive portfolio of brands including Eufy, Anker, Disney and Playermaker to South’s high-performance program.

With this partnership, South Melbourne FC will implement Playermaker’s cutting-edge motion-tracking technology, a system currently used by elite clubs worldwide, to enhance player development and performance monitoring across their football department.

South Melbourne FC President Nicholas Maikousis praised the collaboration’s potential.

“I am excited with this and I am confident of a long-term relationship, Directed is a global brand at the forefront of technology, and their values align with ours as we look to evolve our club and continue to be at the forefront of what we do,” explained Maikousis via South Melbourne FC official press release.

“Innovation and excellence are key pillars of South Melbourne FC, and we are proud to partner with an organisation that shares this vision.”

The confirmation comes at a crucial juncture for one of the strongest clubs in Victorian NPL and a key member of the new National Second Division commencing in late 2025, with Chairman Bill Papastergiadis highlighting its significance.

“It is a historic day for the Club as we embark on the National Second Division, To have Steve Siolis and Directed as a major partner in this journey is a great coup for the Club,” Papastergiadis clarified via South Melbourne FC official press release.

“Directed is a trusted organisation, and Steve is also a great friend with terrific qualities. Football is being reinvigorated in Australia with the new league, and we have a great partner with us in this journey. I am thrilled Steve will be with us on this journey.”

For Directed Group founder and CEO Steve Siolis, the partnership marks a return to familiar territory.

“It’s great to be sponsoring South Melbourne again, South Melbourne FC has a proud history of success over the journey, and we’re excited to be part of its future. The club’s ambition, professionalism, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our values at Directed,” Siolis remarked via South Melbourne official press release.

“Directed and South Melbourne FC are aligned in more than passion for the game. We both put high value on innovation, improving performance, success and community involvement. There’s a real energy around the club right now.” “From the players to the fans, there’s a sense of momentum and a drive for continued growth. We’re proud to support this iconic club and look forward to what’s ahead.”

The collaboration is set to showcase various brands from Directed extensive portfolio throughout the season, reinforcing both organisations’ commitment to innovation and sporting excellence.

Gaining such a reputable sponsorship speaks volumes about South Melbourne FC’s reputation and business ingenuity, it also indicates that strong sponsorships and investment opportunities are available for many NSD clubs.

The partnership also brings more credibility to the plan of a strong, well-sponsored second division that can benefit the restructuring of the Australian Football Pyramid.

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Optus joins Football Queensland as Telco Partner in the North

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Image Credit: FQ Far North & Gulf Facebook

Football Queensland (FQ) has confirmed its collaboration with Optus, naming the leading telecommunication provider as its Official Telecommunications Partner across the Northern, Far North and Gulf regions.

The collaboration will see Optus play an active role in supporting grassroots football throughout the year-long partnership, with a visible presence at FQ precincts in both Cairns and Townsville. This will include branded signage and community-focused activations at key events, further enhancing the matchday experience for players, families, and fans.

FQ General Manager – Northern Conference, Craig Ramage, said the partnership will be a valuable boost for local communities and reflects FQ’s commitment to growing the game in regional areas.

“Football Queensland is excited to expand its long-standing relationship with Optus as we enter into a thriving partnership in the Northern and Far North & Gulf regions,” he said via press release.

“It is excellent to have a brand as prominent as Optus recognise the importance of grassroots football in regional areas.

“Optus’ year-long support will provide a crucial boost that directly benefits clubs and participants across the region, strengthening communities and actively contributing to FQ’s vision for the future of football.”

Optus General Manager North Queensland, Dave Morrissey, emphasised the importance of the North Queensland football community and Optus’ commitment to supporting the next generation as they develop into future stars of the game.

“It is our absolute pleasure to partner with Football Queensland’s Northern and Far North regions. It is great to get to watch the next generation of young players grow their skills and love for the game, and we appreciate all the support we get in return from the local community,” he said via press release.

Football communities attending events and matches at Paradise Park and Macca’s Park can expect to see Optus actively involved throughout the season, with a strong presence around the grounds that reflects the brand’s commitment to regional engagement and sporting development.

Football Australia CEO James Johnson to step down

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Image credit: Football Australia

Chief Executive Officer of Football Australia, James Johnson has advised the Board of his decision to resign.

Mr Johnson’s decision marks the end of his 5½-year term as CEO of the sport’s governing body, during which he, together with the Board, the Football Australia team, and the wider football community, led one of the most successful eras in Australian football history.

During his tenure, Mr Johnson steered Australian football through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, helping the sport reach record participation levels. Under his leadership, Football Australia launched a 15-year strategic vision, achieved unprecedented revenue growth, implemented significant reforms such as Club Licensing Regulations and updates to the Player Transfer System, and revitalised the Australia Cup by linking it to Asia via the AFC Club Competitions.

Mr Johnson oversaw Football Australia’s successful bid for and hosting of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™, a globally acclaimed event that marked a cultural turning point for sport in Australia. During his time as CEO, Football Australia also secured hosting rights for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ and elevated both the men’s and women’s national teams into prominent global sporting brands, each achieving their best-ever results at the FIFA World Cup 2022™ and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™.

In a reflection on his time at the helm, James Johnson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Football Australia over the past 5½ years, highlighting the dedication and talent of the colleagues he worked with throughout his tenure.

“It has been a privilege to lead Football Australia for the past 5½ years, having had the pleasure to work alongside the most talented, committed and dedicated staff, executives and board members,” he said via press release.

“As someone who is immensely passionate about Australian football, this decision has not come easy, but I believe the time is right to step down.

“I want to extend my thank you to the Football Australia Board and everyone within the Australian football community for their support during my tenure. Football is a local and global sport so no matter where I am, I will always be here to support Football Australia and Australian football.”

The Football Australia Board has appointed current director and former Matilda, Heather Garriock, as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

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