Post by Aliti on May 2, 2012 1:25:58 GMT 10
My fellow young Olympic Ultra fans in this forum
I was thinking remembering looking back writing at 2:00am in the morning the competition that I grew up in the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE watching the team which is part of my life Sydney Olympic FC.
In 1977 the first President was Michael Kontos to enter our team Sydney Olympic In the Phillips National Soccer League.
We had a lot of opportunities to secure a social club a stadium the one thing when it comes a club and I still can't get over it is the Club in Stanmore (Cyprus community club) it was the Old Newtown Jets leagues club which they use to compete in the NRL went Newton Rugby league went bankrupt for our Club Sydney Olympic Fc it was great the building somewhere the Olympic Fans to go for a drink after the match it was that close to sign the papers deposit was ready but unfortunately fate there arguments and ego instead working together for us the young Greek Australia somewhere we it can all socialize with poker machine facilities making money funding our team which they withdrew in the early 80's
Sydney Olympic did had a social club in Waterloo which it was rented While the other rival Club Canterbury Marrickville Olympic Berries had a great social Club in Brighton area kyeemagh Friday nights disco and famous Greek singers from Greece the Famous Katerina Stananisi and Giannis Sideris the great singers which Unfortunately it was closed due to neighbors complaining it was sold in a good price Bought an Investment office In Parramtta whatever income they make it was going towards to the club and covering all the expenses.
While Our team Sydney Olympic Fc In the 1980's playing at Pratten Park in Ashfield it was great to see the famous players Gary Myers Chris Kalanztis Peter Raskopoulos Nick Theodorakopoulos the famous Norman Provan from Scotland other great players it was the late great JIM PETENELIS who loved Olympic and doing whatever to make a successful team putting so deep in his pockets and his fellow directors which he lost an Investment Building units In Haberfield for Sydney OLYMPIC for us the fans and the whole Greek Community in the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE famous words on Air SBS he said " eat drink kernai to Olympic Sydney Olympic taking our team to the NSL Knock out CUP in 1983 & 1985
The incident in 1985 Olympic Airways NSL Sydney Olympic vs Sydney City Hakoa when Gerry Gomez was playing dirty trying to injury the man who had walk on water Marshall Soaper the referee did not do anything it was like he was looking the other way and Sydney Olympic fans were upset when Marshall had enough and reacted The legend Marshall Soper recieved and automatic red card for nothing.
Suddenly the Sydney Olympic fans jumped over running middle of the field trying to run after the referrer police officers from Ashfield driving quickly distributing the game trying to clam the fans to leave from the Soccer Field going back to the seat or be arrested If you see a sydney Olympic fan when he was screaming telling them off go back I knew him it was Aleko he was helping to he said "it was Choas even the Police wanted to interview me which I did nothing " as I hve seen a photo Tony Pezzano the gioal keeper copped a massive kick and punch from our Sydney Olympic supporters oldies were getting involved
Everyone ask me whenever they have seen the Youtiube of Pratten Park who was that man that was holding a post trying to hit one of a sydney City Hakoa fan I know the name it was the former Sydney Olympic player and coach it was Nick Theodorakopoulos uncle Paul Theodorakopoulos
After that Incident the Soccer Australia (FFA) Sydney Olympic had to pay the fine it was so expensive so the directors came around the field to put money in the bucket to pay to the old FFA Sydney Olympic is still standing in the 1985 Olympic Airways National Soccer League the fans was passion love their team that time.
The late Great Jim Patenelis became an honorary President in Sydney Olympic and started a program a community With George Tserdanis Alati kai Piperi which is today called Greeks Today it started at 2SER 107.3 then moved to Sunday Midday It was before the 24 hours AM Greek radio stations There were great moments George Tserdanis giving the hard questions to Club Presidents and a director during the National Soccer League
In 1988 we had a great opportunity to share the ground at Home matches ST GEORGE BUDAPEST a Hungarian community who built the stadium in the cooperate box they still have their name steel on silver .
ST George desperately wanted Sydney Olympic to play to make revenue at the ground and maybe one day to have permanent.
Someone had the connection with St George Budapest FCC to have the meeting but our Old directors rejected saying "we don't want to associate with the Hungarians
Sydney Olympic still hired the ground but not permanently the good thing about it it was close to the airport and easy to get to St George Stadium especially team coming from interstate
Next to was the fisherman's club we all know today Brighton Le sands is a popular place
Unfortunately The Hungarian community couldn't handle the Financial in the NSL.
It had great facilities a huge of land for training it did host the National Australia training and in 1981 they hosted the Youth championship.
John Constantine ex President Sydney Olympic Fc he was lawyer well spoken he love Football he was involved in the old Football Nsw and became The chairman The Old Australian Soccer Federation (FA) after when Sir Aurthur George Final retired under It was good an ex Sydney Olympic president the Chairman ASF(FFA) brought in sponsorships COCA COLA calling Coca Cola NATIONAL Soccer league moving to Summer competition which was invented by then ASF (FFA) CEO Stefan Kamaz and CEO once at Sydney Olympic FC Covering TV SBS to ABC the full match it was late at Sunday nights 10:30pm It would encourage all NSL fans Football fans to support and turning up the games.
The only to catch live matches was Theo Skalkos Foreign media Radio the Voice of Greece FONI TIS ELLADOS live Matches covering Sydney Olympic FC home matches and away matches full commentary In Greek around Australia Live Greek radio programs from local and Greece news sports from the station Flash 961Fm Ant1 RADIO you had to become subscriber $100 per year this was before Internet stream and Pay Tv.
2GB 873 AM was hosting John Kosmina with Michael Corkill.
commentating the live NSL game taking callers after the match Which I use to listen in the Car on the way home Unfortunatly It did not last it went only for two season.
If you missed an NSL Match on the weekend and did not making to the games SBS showing the full match of the day Sunday nights at 10:30pm full game If you could'nt stay up late
They would show it at Monday nights would shown a one hour highlights show On SBS with Les Murray and the late Great Johnny Warren
John Constantine had an idea Example If there were an NSL grand final like 1992/93 Grand Final Marconi vs Adelaide City it would have been Black out Playing at Parameter Stadium or the Socceroos tournaments playing At the Sydney Football Stadium It would shown around the interstate expect Sydney.
Soccer Australia FFA introduce 1994/95. season In that season, four points were awarded for a win, with games ending in draws, being decided by penalty shootouts at the end of the game. The winner of the shootout received two points, the loser one point.
The Directors the previous Soccer Australia FFA believed would attract non Football fans and be littlebit excitment As for me as a fan it was ridicoulous no other country in the world game would do it.
When our team Sydney Olympic FC won the first Grand final in the first Summer Competition it was the greatest day Of my life beating Marconi on On May 20, 1990, the Blues defeated Marconi 2-0 before a crowd of 26353 at Parramatta stadium for me and all the Sydney Olympic FCC i was a sweet revenge the players at that time playing their hearts under Mick Hickman the late great Eddie Thomson built up the team Mick Hickman was the assistance coach Mick Hickman took over as the coach with his assistance that time Peter Raskopulos winning for us the fans the whole Greek Community celebrating the whole fans directors everyone at the Alexander the Great Club Livingston rd Mariquilla Andy Palladio's was the MC of the nights Interviewing Robbie Hooker Abbas Sadd Andrew Bernelle Robbie Hooker Tony Spridakos Grant Lee and other players in the winning squad
George Pashalis was the first President to win an NSL Title the budget at that time was $50,0000 it was allot of money that winning years
Harry Michael's for me he was passion about football and Sydney Olympic Fc he had great ideas he brought alto of sponsorship to the Club Harry Michael's he appointed coach Peter Raskopulos it was bad season the fans were frustrated arguing the Greek Media Greek Herald and O Kosmos writing their own opinion sports Column Peter Raskopulos was sacked then Came a former Marconi Fairfield coach Berti Mariani winning coach taking Marconi three times in the Grand final that Time it was great but the Humiliation a record NSL Loss which I forget the 7-1 loss at Marconi Stadium at Marconi
I was hassled for a week at High school Including few teachers they found out from The Sydney Morning Herald Sports section Berti was sacked Tom Sermani took over till the 92/93 season finished
Harry Michael's had his own TV production Zero!zero camera crew covering the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE competitions the National soccer league bring the beautiful game through the years on Match-days SBS and then Pay TV started in 1996 showing all live games only on OPTUS VISION like myself subscribed paying every month he had is own channel from the studio in whiloughby GREEK Australian TV bring local programs and live news shows from SKAI & ALPHA bring the Greek Community together my favorite for those who remember was ACTION REPLAY after the match
I would drive from Belmore Sports Ground to home just to see other highlights in the NSL hosted Nick Grivas and later George Tserdanis with George Pashalis and Peter Raskopoulos
After the resignation John Constantine after the Stewart inquiry report In Canberra of Corruption it was damaged the game
In 1995 David Hill was elected a mini revolutionize the NSL calling it at Gay Leaguebrought in major sponsorship Erricson cup non ethnic changing logos name and getting rid Parramtta Melita eagles Heidelberg united and Brunswick zebras replacing Perth Glory, Carlton Parramatta Power, Colling wood warriors which collingwood pulled out it did
Then chairman of Soccer Australia, David Hill in 1998, signed a 10-year TV rights deal with the Seven Network, the richest in the game's history.
Much to the frustration of stakeholders in the game, Seven farmed out the national league matches to the ABC and to its pay TV arm C7.
With the collapse of C7, no games are broadcast at all.
A lot of us believe that the game deserves better.
Earlier that year, Seven sought to renegotiate the deal, downgrading the value of the contract by about $6 million.
Seven also wanted to off-load coverage of the national soccer league games
There was a strong sense they would not honour the agreement and Seven did not want to be in a position of throwing good money after bad
bring about the demise of the National Soccer League as we all know it.
The old Soccer Australia simply unable to finance the NSL beyond the current season and the clubs won't be able to pick up the tab during the NSL competition year they simply screw Football National soccer league.
At Belmore Sports ground the frustration The real NSL fans making the biggest banner NOBODY SCREWS SOCCER LIKE SEVEN the C7 SPORTS were panicking it wasn't good on their image it was between Sydney Olympic fc vs Northern Spirit Sunday summer evening it took long time to negotiate to pull the banner by force but our Olympic fans refuse finally unfortunately they pull it down the game started.
Simon Constanidis bought a social Club at Hurl-stone Park at Tennet Parade it was residential but at least we had Social Club somewhere finally The socialize it was opened by the ex prime Minister Paul Keating and the Golden key opened by the owner of the Foreign Media Theo Skalkos who sponsored his news paper the British and Australian soccer weekly were the Sydney Olympic sporting club it was great after the match from Belmore Sports Ground fans would travel at Hurl stone park after match drinks poker machines greeting players talking all night about Football Bouzoukia nights every Friday Saturday there were many arguments in the kitchens sabotaging dobbing the newspapers I had lunch with my parents and my uncle Buffet lunch seeing players having lunch one Sunday afternoon I heard a loud voice it was like an earthquake the owner of the Foreign Media Theo Skalkos yelling so loud he wasn't afraid he will say it as it is one day he even told a former Labour MP he was a patron Of Sydney Olympic FC that time telling him off saying what are you doing here Piss off you no Greek" at the Social Club Sydney Olympic Sporting Club was loosing money no customers the debt collecters the sherif department repo the cah register the club did'nt pay on time lucky someone helped gabe a cheque to pay umpaid bills
The Sydney Olympic Sporting Club directors decided to sub lease calling it Bellevue Riverside lounge a Lebanese owner reception lounger he had few years he decided to walk off the club was shut down it was sad for me I miss it as a fan
In 1997 Sydney Olympic it was the historic meeting for the future of beloved Sydney Olympic Fc I received a letter and extraordinary Annual General Meeting Simon Constantnidis that Sydney Olympic to be privatize the Football club who should buy it the late Rene Rivkin or Nick Poilitis
Rene Rivkin wanted to buy Sydney Olympic with his famous golden Worry Beads and his Cigar smoking every moment He said Members Of Sydney Olympic Fc If you elect me the name will remain paying the expenses putting our Club Sydney Olympic fc in the Share markets like Manchester fu United does full time professional the fans didn't want a XSENOS one oldie got up who said we are not going to sell the team to a Jew saying front of Rene Rivkin with alongside Dominic Gala ti a former SBS head of Sports the funny thing was while we were at the Club discussing while Rene Rivkin was taking the Rivkin team putting front of our cars a free Rivkin report advertisement about stocks and how rich will be an oldie caught one at the car park told him off "saying take that shit off my car'
Rene did turn up a home match at Belmore during the campaign smoking his cigar watching Sydney Olympic team in the NSL competition
A month later Nick Politis chairman of the Eastern Suburbs roosters City Ford when Nick entered at the Sydney Olympic Sporting Club on a Sunday midday he said if i buy the team I will take Sydney Olympic Fc to be played at the Sydney Football Stadium full time the players it will be under the East trust club training Gym Swimming pools full time professional along with his five Greek business partners the Friends of Sydney Olympic
Mathew lepouris campaigning Greek newspapers Greek Herald O KOSMOS coming On 2mm Sunday Sports and George Tserdanis Greeks Today weeks long meetings with the members so we can decide the future .there were SBS sports reporter Foreign media Greek herald O Kosmos other media which all eyes on members like myself .
The Australian electrical commission controlling the voted to be fair in the ballet paper you put a cross Rene Rivkin or Friends of Sydney Olympic.
It was an historic decision,which could see the personal sleeping giant in the National Soccer league UTS SYDNEY OLYMPIC FC finally woken for good.
It will eventually take members of the club which started out as Pan Hellenic so many years a total 40 extraordinary general meetings in couple of months to conclude the deal.
But the decision of Sunday 31st January 1998 essentially agreed to a 51% majority sale of the club to a group five Sydney businessmen known as the friends of Sydney Olympic.
Many observers believe the name itself was worth a number of votes and given that the decision was carried by the smallest margin (33 votes) it may have been the choice of the century
The decision was the culmination of more than six months of negotiations which began with the initial decision then Olympic board that year to explore the privatization opportunities yet again The discussion had been that time the agenda for many years members like myself can remember but it was the first time it had been advanced.
Nick Politis group five Sydney businessmen known as the friends of Sydney Olympic bought 51% members like myself Sydney Olympic for as 49% George Pshalis became president 49% our home match played at Belmore Sports Ground coached by Branko Culina we were the only Club in the NSL to become Full time Players Nick decided to take a few matches at his home ground Sydney Football stadium fans Members we weren't happy we wanted Bel more Sports Ground but Sydney Olympic played at the Sydney Football Stadium It was a good ground live music Cheer Girls half time show but less crowd it wasn't working and parking and traffic was everyone nightmare it simply did not work out we members gave a strong message to then directors of 49% we are not happy at the SF so they decided to bring back Sydney Olympic FCC to Bel more Sports Ground during the Summer competition it was great to see our team cheering a big crowd wonderful atmosphere at the end as always listening the fans young and old analyzing the game it was great.
Nick Polities appointed Peter Raskopoulos as the CEO full time We received a letter AGM as always the George Pshalis announcing that Peter Rsskopoulos to be speaking at the podium at the Sydney Olympic Sporting Club he wanted to take Sydney Olympic FC to Shark park at the Cronulla Sutherland sharks Homegrounds the reason plenty of Juniors development on the Sutherland Shire we Members Sydney Olympic Fc screaming we were upset changing to Olympic Sharks in other words Members as they use to call us 49% back then have no say whatever they want it went ahead calling Olympic sharks to attract the local Sutherland Shire we Olympic FANS and the Greek Community wanted Bel more Sports Ground Peter Resupplies said I am the Ceo a choose who I want and I fire who I want then the most famous quote by a player who played wearing the PAN HELLENIC between 1958-1961 and loves the game and a passionate proud supporter I will never forget that quote " Peter A AMA PAME STO CRONULLA THA MAS FANAI TA SKILOPSARA" he was Right
Playing Saturday nights which for us the Greek community was social events like weddings and Greek dancing events playing Olympic sharks Saturday Nights so the spectators can go to Sharks league clubs to be busy it was the worst location for those who have car can get to the game but think about a pensioner who can't get transport and getting to shark park there is no train or bus which upset the fans especially the pensioner who loved Sydney Olympic Fc/Pan Hellenic through the years
Olympic fans before the big grand final that Traveled in Perth sharing rooms in a hotel fitting as many people in a room others were sleeping in the ground to the bath tubs accommodation
It was great that Sydney Olympic Fc won the second Premiership in 2001 beating Perth Glory 1-0 with the famous Ante Milic which silent In Perth Glory and celebrating the streets of Perth.
In Sydney airport Domestic flights Sydney Olympic fans young and old that made it cheering waiting the players to come out with NSL Trophy with the former Sydney Olympic Fc player and Brisbane Strikers Gary Phillips a winner player in the NSL 1990 and then Coach in 2001 cheering ail the way to Shark Park through the night.
The following year Sydney Olympic Fc made to the second Grand Final Gary Phillips was sacked then Lee sterry took over it was ready for him it was built by Gary Phillips from Peter Raskopoulos CEO it was failing less crowds at Shark Park loosing the Grand Final against the Perth Glory
Nick Politis resigned along with Friends Of Sydney Olympic Peter Raskopulos Nick Politis lost 13 millions dollars for seven years.
Nick Poilitis wanted to sell Sydney Olympic fc selling to an English team Leeds united We were yelling NO BLOODY WAY 51% we did not wanted
It was back to us the members Of Sydney Olympic FC It was the final year Of the NSL we Were panicking Adelaide City pulled out just before the NSL season about to start Sydney Morning Herald mention our club Sydney Olympic FC to alongside with Adelaide City.
Jim Augerinos with Greg Gavrildis the owner of 2MM 1665AM the first station to free in 1996 Jim Augerinos Created a program Sports Sunday ATHLITIKI KIRAKI every Sundays from 12:00pm at the Old building at St Peters they once owned another Greek Newspaper TO BHMA (Vema) which we painted on Nick Meridith bold head the lines were busy everyone was pumped up before the matcdays especially home-matches famous Greek bussiness man Kosta Makris from Adelaide who bought once West Adelaide Hellas Stirring up the Sydney Olympic supporters it was chaos the callers expressing their opinion about Sydney Olympic and the Greek football good and bad It did clashed with the popular Program SBS ON THE BALL from 11:30pm -12:30pm with Kyle Patterson and the late great Johnny warren analyzing debating the games in the NSL with debates and interview
It made me rev ed up to the game getting ready in the NSL Summer competition to see our team competing against team that we like and sometimes hate or player Jim Augerinos covered the commentary full matches on 2mm 1665am home and away with his mobile phone headphone commenting in the cooperate boxes and another radio to GALAXIAS on a scanner covering commentator was Con Emmanouil which for me it was easy carrying the radio scanner wth headphone it was crystal clear.
We had an urgent AGM after the departure Nick Politis with Friends Of Sydney Olympic on a Sunday Morning at the Alexander the Great club just before the meeting Graham Athaseris had plain with George Pshaliis Nobody knew the members Like myself of our team Sydney Olympic Fc had the money to enter the NSL final year George Pshalis started the meeting explaining it was going out of control question right left Suddenly I sat the same table with Jim Augerinos He stood up grabbed the microphone and explaining the plain he found a group and the Budget will be in the final year of the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE $900,000 unfortunately we had to let go all the good pl ayes most of them went to play Perth Glory or Parramatta Power which non ethnic club lost millions of dollars.
Jim Augerinos announced the Board members President was Steve Kamper which they saved Sydney Olympic Fc our team made it to the Final year National Soccer league abolishing 49% which is now our hands the members the fans it is my team your team our team playing Oki Jubilee I motion the AGM to bring the Juniors back to Sydney Olympic Fc The final whistle blew against South Melbourne Hellas As for me I was wearing black I was in mourning that NSL that we all grew up had Dismissed After that game I went to ST George leagues club drinking a nice brandy
Today our team Sydney Olympic is still alive the flag is raising which we are in the NSW premier league which I still support win or loose I have the English fan Mentality home and away I did miss teams like South Melbourne and all the NSL teams use to come after the A league was launch and reading a report to be in that competition 5 million dollars and if it would last
The good thing is The ex NSL Clubs who are competing in State leagues when you think about it it saves travel ling costs
The memorable Grand Final in 2011 Sydney Olympic Fc vs Sydney United that we wanted playing at Belmore Sports ground From t of 10,000 fans most of them I haven't see those fans in years since the NSL was Dismissed old fans Old school fans like same age as myself which for me it was surprising and catching up talking before the delay kick off on a Monday Public holiday Labour day.
I wonder if they are coming again in the normal NSW premiere league competition??
I have seen Myself during dramas directors coming and going arguments With coaches one who was a controversial coach and a hot headed Fathers & family's letting out the steam on the Greek radio Sports and the AGM
In 2007 It was a special annerversery the Panhellenic 1957-2007 We did had dramas with Fnsw they thought it was Greek Flag the match inspector came to us to sticki tape every single jearsey which is to me and all the Olympic/Pan Hellenic fans was offending trying to explain it was our historic Panhellenic logo it was an issue but it was good to see John constaine and a famous barrister & Mayor Ron Hoeing from Botany Bay went there sorted the problem with their legal expert after all the season the Pan Hellenic logo and Sydney Olympic logo with the original Blue and white colors with ANT1 Pacific.
That year it was the worst season crowds were so low that we were to embarrassed to write the crowd attendance coming second last coached by Manny Spannoudakis and the assistance coach Chris Kalanztis fans young and old pressuring the board to sack him the directors that year to keep Manny till the end of the season for me and all the fans it was embarrassing on the points table second last we were fearing to be relegated it wasn't the way to on our anniversary year to be like that fans couldn't wait the season to be finished.
During the off field I was wondering the Sydney Olympic fans supporters committee what is going to happen to celebrate Pan Hellenic-Sydney Olympic celebrate and honor for those who was wearing our Pan Hellenic jersey that era our For Fathers
One Director she said she promised do organize as the event officer her idea to hire at Randwick racecourse there were dinning room high class style nothing happen I ask her that time about the anniversary Pan Hellenic she said couldn't hire because that time had horse flue.
I said to myself if it is not Randwick another venue a reception or a hall they did absolutely nothing to me which was disappointing it was a real shame.t nothing happen they let it go swept under the car
John Constantine & ex President Jim Kospetas an AGM meeting at the Cazzie Club at Kingsford announcing they are changing and showing the Sydney Olympic Logo and explaining to the members to affiliate the Eastern Suburbs association for the Juniors playing at Hensley Athletic fields Saturday mornings few years later EX President had broken the relationship it did turn nasty and personal with Botany Bay mayor Ron Hoeng in that period the Juniors It was huge problem the Sydney Olympic Juniors weren't allowed in the Eastern Suburbs You had to feel sorry about the Juniors especially the parents driving them around Sydney It was a big mess Juniors Football Nsw weren't all owed either to be play at Belmore sports Ground It means that Sydney Olympic Juniors had to play away games twice in the rounds during the football season I was listing to the parents frustration I know how they feel I do admire the parents supporting their own kids to peruse their dreams
In 2009 Jim Kospetas resigned as a president from 2005-2009
The Current President and the current Directors Graehme was in charged with the Juniors It was a lot of hard work to bring the Juniors to come back to Belmore trying to be under the Canterbury district area Finaly Our Current President George Giannaros and Graham Athanaseris gave us the fans the wonderful news that Juniors are be playing at our Homeground Belmore Sports ground which was really happy and glad today they still playing I believe they are the superstars of tomorrow.
There were a lot of volunteers seeing Thrillos setting up the soccer nets getting ready for our homematches each person who use to volunteer had a role around the ground in home matches.
I volunteer the past 8 years at match days as an official starting early at Bel more and staying back cleaning the change rooms the grounds getting home late thinking about work the next day
We use to organize alot fund raising annual dances bowling with players and fans every Monday nights Poker night $20.00 selling merchandise during home match days and once year at the Greek Festivals in Sydney at Darling harbor.
I donate once in 08 out of my own pocket $500 dollars to the Sydney Olympic team because I felt like it to me it is passion of our great club the players that time found out and it was nice of them coming to me and saying thank you there were appreciated.
John Kosmina use to coach HAKOA he came to Belmore Sports ground that time Manny Spannoudakis was Technical Director I was at the corprate box that time John Kosmina front seat with Manny watching our team play he was John had is eye on Shannon Cole the game Finnish and I saw both signing the agreement contact realise Shannon to join at HAKOA before the A league competition started.
I was disappointing that Shannon left in half season during the Nsw Premeir League competition his last game was the waratah Tiger turf knock out cup grand final we were runners up against Bankstown City at Seymour shaw park at Sutherland
There is nothing to do once a player leaves from a Nsw Premier league Club and not receiving a compensation fee One thousand dollars
It is the way that FNSW & FFA arrangements I ask few clubs they recieve a compensation Fee they siad to me your joking there disappointing as I was we were not alone One director from APIA said to me to avoid Compensation fee and to make it up to play a friendly match like the Central coast mariners People asking dis we receive compensation fee from Shannon Cole to HAKOA and Ian Ramsey to Adelaide united I have to say this "if you have seen the money then I saw it to" which is to me injustice
I have seen a lot behind the scenes through the years.
Once in 2008 the directors that year couldn't put an application to FNSW against Manly United on a Saturday night and not clash Our Greek Easter day unfortunately I had to leave my family relative on Easter and not had a piece of Lamb which sometimes when I think about it I regret that year in 2008 my relative left Easter Sunday Night 2008 by the time I got back home
Even Milan Blagojevic wasn't happy either to leave his family driving from his house Liverpool to Belmore Sports Ground for the match
We are lucky and grateful that we the Greek community have a 24 hours Greek radio on the AM stations 2MM 1665AM and promoting the NSW premier League and Sydney Olympic Fc informing the fans our Greek Newspapers O KOSMOS and THE Greek Herald
Other nationalities don't have like we have a 24 radio program especially on AM station that we have.
Everyone has their own opinion I always respect it whether We agree or disagree everyone I believe to voice their opinion about our team and the game and most important becoming a Member if we have alot of members Sydney Olympic Fc we can listen and Ideas how to improve our club in the future.
Indecent was at St George Stadium iN 1992 a rainny summer Sunday night when Sydney Olympic Fc vs Marconi Fairfield when our team scored the first goal one Sydney Olympic supporter over the excitment he had a heart attack the crowds turning around to help him while the match had to be played the Ambulance came quickly nobody knows what happen if he was ok.
My memorable NSL moment Is when we drew 2-2 Kris Trajonvski scored the last minute on rainy Sunday night fans were loosing hope they were leaving disappointing scoring the goal spectators pushing shoving to come back at the ground cheering I WAS THERE at Leichardt Oval cheering with my Father l the Olympic fans went wild jumping over the fence cheering celebrating with the player
There were many presidents in the past You will be asking me who was a good president to our Sydney Olympic FC through the years and who was Worst ??
Each person has their own opinion
For myself the late Great Jim Petinelis, Harry Michael's, Steve Kamper and George Giannaros
Today Directors are like us Greek Australian working together as a team long hours meeting finishing till midnight giving up their own personal commitments paying deep from their own pocks all the expenses.
So far we have a home ground at Bel more sports ground and an office which we are all happy securing the next 25 years.
I hope Sydney Olympic to be back in the national competition a B league or the old system of the national Conference
Which I will dream to see all the ex NSL teams it needs a big review from the FFA someone who can understand us and the knowledge .
Maybe I won't see that vision happen
Maybe young fans the Olympic ultras can see that
'
I know that you cannot live on hope alone, but without it, life is not worth living. And you.And you.
Your In Soccer(Football)
Aliti
Sydney Olympic/Pan Hellenic History Tradition Passion
Former Sydney Olympic President Harry Michaels with SBS world game host Les Murray
I was thinking remembering looking back writing at 2:00am in the morning the competition that I grew up in the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE watching the team which is part of my life Sydney Olympic FC.
In 1977 the first President was Michael Kontos to enter our team Sydney Olympic In the Phillips National Soccer League.
We had a lot of opportunities to secure a social club a stadium the one thing when it comes a club and I still can't get over it is the Club in Stanmore (Cyprus community club) it was the Old Newtown Jets leagues club which they use to compete in the NRL went Newton Rugby league went bankrupt for our Club Sydney Olympic Fc it was great the building somewhere the Olympic Fans to go for a drink after the match it was that close to sign the papers deposit was ready but unfortunately fate there arguments and ego instead working together for us the young Greek Australia somewhere we it can all socialize with poker machine facilities making money funding our team which they withdrew in the early 80's
Sydney Olympic did had a social club in Waterloo which it was rented While the other rival Club Canterbury Marrickville Olympic Berries had a great social Club in Brighton area kyeemagh Friday nights disco and famous Greek singers from Greece the Famous Katerina Stananisi and Giannis Sideris the great singers which Unfortunately it was closed due to neighbors complaining it was sold in a good price Bought an Investment office In Parramtta whatever income they make it was going towards to the club and covering all the expenses.
While Our team Sydney Olympic Fc In the 1980's playing at Pratten Park in Ashfield it was great to see the famous players Gary Myers Chris Kalanztis Peter Raskopoulos Nick Theodorakopoulos the famous Norman Provan from Scotland other great players it was the late great JIM PETENELIS who loved Olympic and doing whatever to make a successful team putting so deep in his pockets and his fellow directors which he lost an Investment Building units In Haberfield for Sydney OLYMPIC for us the fans and the whole Greek Community in the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE famous words on Air SBS he said " eat drink kernai to Olympic Sydney Olympic taking our team to the NSL Knock out CUP in 1983 & 1985
The incident in 1985 Olympic Airways NSL Sydney Olympic vs Sydney City Hakoa when Gerry Gomez was playing dirty trying to injury the man who had walk on water Marshall Soaper the referee did not do anything it was like he was looking the other way and Sydney Olympic fans were upset when Marshall had enough and reacted The legend Marshall Soper recieved and automatic red card for nothing.
Suddenly the Sydney Olympic fans jumped over running middle of the field trying to run after the referrer police officers from Ashfield driving quickly distributing the game trying to clam the fans to leave from the Soccer Field going back to the seat or be arrested If you see a sydney Olympic fan when he was screaming telling them off go back I knew him it was Aleko he was helping to he said "it was Choas even the Police wanted to interview me which I did nothing " as I hve seen a photo Tony Pezzano the gioal keeper copped a massive kick and punch from our Sydney Olympic supporters oldies were getting involved
Everyone ask me whenever they have seen the Youtiube of Pratten Park who was that man that was holding a post trying to hit one of a sydney City Hakoa fan I know the name it was the former Sydney Olympic player and coach it was Nick Theodorakopoulos uncle Paul Theodorakopoulos
After that Incident the Soccer Australia (FFA) Sydney Olympic had to pay the fine it was so expensive so the directors came around the field to put money in the bucket to pay to the old FFA Sydney Olympic is still standing in the 1985 Olympic Airways National Soccer League the fans was passion love their team that time.
The late Great Jim Patenelis became an honorary President in Sydney Olympic and started a program a community With George Tserdanis Alati kai Piperi which is today called Greeks Today it started at 2SER 107.3 then moved to Sunday Midday It was before the 24 hours AM Greek radio stations There were great moments George Tserdanis giving the hard questions to Club Presidents and a director during the National Soccer League
In 1988 we had a great opportunity to share the ground at Home matches ST GEORGE BUDAPEST a Hungarian community who built the stadium in the cooperate box they still have their name steel on silver .
ST George desperately wanted Sydney Olympic to play to make revenue at the ground and maybe one day to have permanent.
Someone had the connection with St George Budapest FCC to have the meeting but our Old directors rejected saying "we don't want to associate with the Hungarians
Sydney Olympic still hired the ground but not permanently the good thing about it it was close to the airport and easy to get to St George Stadium especially team coming from interstate
Next to was the fisherman's club we all know today Brighton Le sands is a popular place
Unfortunately The Hungarian community couldn't handle the Financial in the NSL.
It had great facilities a huge of land for training it did host the National Australia training and in 1981 they hosted the Youth championship.
John Constantine ex President Sydney Olympic Fc he was lawyer well spoken he love Football he was involved in the old Football Nsw and became The chairman The Old Australian Soccer Federation (FA) after when Sir Aurthur George Final retired under It was good an ex Sydney Olympic president the Chairman ASF(FFA) brought in sponsorships COCA COLA calling Coca Cola NATIONAL Soccer league moving to Summer competition which was invented by then ASF (FFA) CEO Stefan Kamaz and CEO once at Sydney Olympic FC Covering TV SBS to ABC the full match it was late at Sunday nights 10:30pm It would encourage all NSL fans Football fans to support and turning up the games.
The only to catch live matches was Theo Skalkos Foreign media Radio the Voice of Greece FONI TIS ELLADOS live Matches covering Sydney Olympic FC home matches and away matches full commentary In Greek around Australia Live Greek radio programs from local and Greece news sports from the station Flash 961Fm Ant1 RADIO you had to become subscriber $100 per year this was before Internet stream and Pay Tv.
2GB 873 AM was hosting John Kosmina with Michael Corkill.
commentating the live NSL game taking callers after the match Which I use to listen in the Car on the way home Unfortunatly It did not last it went only for two season.
If you missed an NSL Match on the weekend and did not making to the games SBS showing the full match of the day Sunday nights at 10:30pm full game If you could'nt stay up late
They would show it at Monday nights would shown a one hour highlights show On SBS with Les Murray and the late Great Johnny Warren
John Constantine had an idea Example If there were an NSL grand final like 1992/93 Grand Final Marconi vs Adelaide City it would have been Black out Playing at Parameter Stadium or the Socceroos tournaments playing At the Sydney Football Stadium It would shown around the interstate expect Sydney.
Soccer Australia FFA introduce 1994/95. season In that season, four points were awarded for a win, with games ending in draws, being decided by penalty shootouts at the end of the game. The winner of the shootout received two points, the loser one point.
The Directors the previous Soccer Australia FFA believed would attract non Football fans and be littlebit excitment As for me as a fan it was ridicoulous no other country in the world game would do it.
When our team Sydney Olympic FC won the first Grand final in the first Summer Competition it was the greatest day Of my life beating Marconi on On May 20, 1990, the Blues defeated Marconi 2-0 before a crowd of 26353 at Parramatta stadium for me and all the Sydney Olympic FCC i was a sweet revenge the players at that time playing their hearts under Mick Hickman the late great Eddie Thomson built up the team Mick Hickman was the assistance coach Mick Hickman took over as the coach with his assistance that time Peter Raskopulos winning for us the fans the whole Greek Community celebrating the whole fans directors everyone at the Alexander the Great Club Livingston rd Mariquilla Andy Palladio's was the MC of the nights Interviewing Robbie Hooker Abbas Sadd Andrew Bernelle Robbie Hooker Tony Spridakos Grant Lee and other players in the winning squad
George Pashalis was the first President to win an NSL Title the budget at that time was $50,0000 it was allot of money that winning years
Harry Michael's for me he was passion about football and Sydney Olympic Fc he had great ideas he brought alto of sponsorship to the Club Harry Michael's he appointed coach Peter Raskopulos it was bad season the fans were frustrated arguing the Greek Media Greek Herald and O Kosmos writing their own opinion sports Column Peter Raskopulos was sacked then Came a former Marconi Fairfield coach Berti Mariani winning coach taking Marconi three times in the Grand final that Time it was great but the Humiliation a record NSL Loss which I forget the 7-1 loss at Marconi Stadium at Marconi
I was hassled for a week at High school Including few teachers they found out from The Sydney Morning Herald Sports section Berti was sacked Tom Sermani took over till the 92/93 season finished
Harry Michael's had his own TV production Zero!zero camera crew covering the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE competitions the National soccer league bring the beautiful game through the years on Match-days SBS and then Pay TV started in 1996 showing all live games only on OPTUS VISION like myself subscribed paying every month he had is own channel from the studio in whiloughby GREEK Australian TV bring local programs and live news shows from SKAI & ALPHA bring the Greek Community together my favorite for those who remember was ACTION REPLAY after the match
I would drive from Belmore Sports Ground to home just to see other highlights in the NSL hosted Nick Grivas and later George Tserdanis with George Pashalis and Peter Raskopoulos
After the resignation John Constantine after the Stewart inquiry report In Canberra of Corruption it was damaged the game
In 1995 David Hill was elected a mini revolutionize the NSL calling it at Gay Leaguebrought in major sponsorship Erricson cup non ethnic changing logos name and getting rid Parramtta Melita eagles Heidelberg united and Brunswick zebras replacing Perth Glory, Carlton Parramatta Power, Colling wood warriors which collingwood pulled out it did
Then chairman of Soccer Australia, David Hill in 1998, signed a 10-year TV rights deal with the Seven Network, the richest in the game's history.
Much to the frustration of stakeholders in the game, Seven farmed out the national league matches to the ABC and to its pay TV arm C7.
With the collapse of C7, no games are broadcast at all.
A lot of us believe that the game deserves better.
Earlier that year, Seven sought to renegotiate the deal, downgrading the value of the contract by about $6 million.
Seven also wanted to off-load coverage of the national soccer league games
There was a strong sense they would not honour the agreement and Seven did not want to be in a position of throwing good money after bad
bring about the demise of the National Soccer League as we all know it.
The old Soccer Australia simply unable to finance the NSL beyond the current season and the clubs won't be able to pick up the tab during the NSL competition year they simply screw Football National soccer league.
At Belmore Sports ground the frustration The real NSL fans making the biggest banner NOBODY SCREWS SOCCER LIKE SEVEN the C7 SPORTS were panicking it wasn't good on their image it was between Sydney Olympic fc vs Northern Spirit Sunday summer evening it took long time to negotiate to pull the banner by force but our Olympic fans refuse finally unfortunately they pull it down the game started.
Simon Constanidis bought a social Club at Hurl-stone Park at Tennet Parade it was residential but at least we had Social Club somewhere finally The socialize it was opened by the ex prime Minister Paul Keating and the Golden key opened by the owner of the Foreign Media Theo Skalkos who sponsored his news paper the British and Australian soccer weekly were the Sydney Olympic sporting club it was great after the match from Belmore Sports Ground fans would travel at Hurl stone park after match drinks poker machines greeting players talking all night about Football Bouzoukia nights every Friday Saturday there were many arguments in the kitchens sabotaging dobbing the newspapers I had lunch with my parents and my uncle Buffet lunch seeing players having lunch one Sunday afternoon I heard a loud voice it was like an earthquake the owner of the Foreign Media Theo Skalkos yelling so loud he wasn't afraid he will say it as it is one day he even told a former Labour MP he was a patron Of Sydney Olympic FC that time telling him off saying what are you doing here Piss off you no Greek" at the Social Club Sydney Olympic Sporting Club was loosing money no customers the debt collecters the sherif department repo the cah register the club did'nt pay on time lucky someone helped gabe a cheque to pay umpaid bills
The Sydney Olympic Sporting Club directors decided to sub lease calling it Bellevue Riverside lounge a Lebanese owner reception lounger he had few years he decided to walk off the club was shut down it was sad for me I miss it as a fan
In 1997 Sydney Olympic it was the historic meeting for the future of beloved Sydney Olympic Fc I received a letter and extraordinary Annual General Meeting Simon Constantnidis that Sydney Olympic to be privatize the Football club who should buy it the late Rene Rivkin or Nick Poilitis
Rene Rivkin wanted to buy Sydney Olympic with his famous golden Worry Beads and his Cigar smoking every moment He said Members Of Sydney Olympic Fc If you elect me the name will remain paying the expenses putting our Club Sydney Olympic fc in the Share markets like Manchester fu United does full time professional the fans didn't want a XSENOS one oldie got up who said we are not going to sell the team to a Jew saying front of Rene Rivkin with alongside Dominic Gala ti a former SBS head of Sports the funny thing was while we were at the Club discussing while Rene Rivkin was taking the Rivkin team putting front of our cars a free Rivkin report advertisement about stocks and how rich will be an oldie caught one at the car park told him off "saying take that shit off my car'
Rene did turn up a home match at Belmore during the campaign smoking his cigar watching Sydney Olympic team in the NSL competition
A month later Nick Politis chairman of the Eastern Suburbs roosters City Ford when Nick entered at the Sydney Olympic Sporting Club on a Sunday midday he said if i buy the team I will take Sydney Olympic Fc to be played at the Sydney Football Stadium full time the players it will be under the East trust club training Gym Swimming pools full time professional along with his five Greek business partners the Friends of Sydney Olympic
Mathew lepouris campaigning Greek newspapers Greek Herald O KOSMOS coming On 2mm Sunday Sports and George Tserdanis Greeks Today weeks long meetings with the members so we can decide the future .there were SBS sports reporter Foreign media Greek herald O Kosmos other media which all eyes on members like myself .
The Australian electrical commission controlling the voted to be fair in the ballet paper you put a cross Rene Rivkin or Friends of Sydney Olympic.
It was an historic decision,which could see the personal sleeping giant in the National Soccer league UTS SYDNEY OLYMPIC FC finally woken for good.
It will eventually take members of the club which started out as Pan Hellenic so many years a total 40 extraordinary general meetings in couple of months to conclude the deal.
But the decision of Sunday 31st January 1998 essentially agreed to a 51% majority sale of the club to a group five Sydney businessmen known as the friends of Sydney Olympic.
Many observers believe the name itself was worth a number of votes and given that the decision was carried by the smallest margin (33 votes) it may have been the choice of the century
The decision was the culmination of more than six months of negotiations which began with the initial decision then Olympic board that year to explore the privatization opportunities yet again The discussion had been that time the agenda for many years members like myself can remember but it was the first time it had been advanced.
Nick Politis group five Sydney businessmen known as the friends of Sydney Olympic bought 51% members like myself Sydney Olympic for as 49% George Pshalis became president 49% our home match played at Belmore Sports Ground coached by Branko Culina we were the only Club in the NSL to become Full time Players Nick decided to take a few matches at his home ground Sydney Football stadium fans Members we weren't happy we wanted Bel more Sports Ground but Sydney Olympic played at the Sydney Football Stadium It was a good ground live music Cheer Girls half time show but less crowd it wasn't working and parking and traffic was everyone nightmare it simply did not work out we members gave a strong message to then directors of 49% we are not happy at the SF so they decided to bring back Sydney Olympic FCC to Bel more Sports Ground during the Summer competition it was great to see our team cheering a big crowd wonderful atmosphere at the end as always listening the fans young and old analyzing the game it was great.
Nick Polities appointed Peter Raskopoulos as the CEO full time We received a letter AGM as always the George Pshalis announcing that Peter Rsskopoulos to be speaking at the podium at the Sydney Olympic Sporting Club he wanted to take Sydney Olympic FC to Shark park at the Cronulla Sutherland sharks Homegrounds the reason plenty of Juniors development on the Sutherland Shire we Members Sydney Olympic Fc screaming we were upset changing to Olympic Sharks in other words Members as they use to call us 49% back then have no say whatever they want it went ahead calling Olympic sharks to attract the local Sutherland Shire we Olympic FANS and the Greek Community wanted Bel more Sports Ground Peter Resupplies said I am the Ceo a choose who I want and I fire who I want then the most famous quote by a player who played wearing the PAN HELLENIC between 1958-1961 and loves the game and a passionate proud supporter I will never forget that quote " Peter A AMA PAME STO CRONULLA THA MAS FANAI TA SKILOPSARA" he was Right
Playing Saturday nights which for us the Greek community was social events like weddings and Greek dancing events playing Olympic sharks Saturday Nights so the spectators can go to Sharks league clubs to be busy it was the worst location for those who have car can get to the game but think about a pensioner who can't get transport and getting to shark park there is no train or bus which upset the fans especially the pensioner who loved Sydney Olympic Fc/Pan Hellenic through the years
Olympic fans before the big grand final that Traveled in Perth sharing rooms in a hotel fitting as many people in a room others were sleeping in the ground to the bath tubs accommodation
It was great that Sydney Olympic Fc won the second Premiership in 2001 beating Perth Glory 1-0 with the famous Ante Milic which silent In Perth Glory and celebrating the streets of Perth.
In Sydney airport Domestic flights Sydney Olympic fans young and old that made it cheering waiting the players to come out with NSL Trophy with the former Sydney Olympic Fc player and Brisbane Strikers Gary Phillips a winner player in the NSL 1990 and then Coach in 2001 cheering ail the way to Shark Park through the night.
The following year Sydney Olympic Fc made to the second Grand Final Gary Phillips was sacked then Lee sterry took over it was ready for him it was built by Gary Phillips from Peter Raskopoulos CEO it was failing less crowds at Shark Park loosing the Grand Final against the Perth Glory
Nick Politis resigned along with Friends Of Sydney Olympic Peter Raskopulos Nick Politis lost 13 millions dollars for seven years.
Nick Poilitis wanted to sell Sydney Olympic fc selling to an English team Leeds united We were yelling NO BLOODY WAY 51% we did not wanted
It was back to us the members Of Sydney Olympic FC It was the final year Of the NSL we Were panicking Adelaide City pulled out just before the NSL season about to start Sydney Morning Herald mention our club Sydney Olympic FC to alongside with Adelaide City.
Jim Augerinos with Greg Gavrildis the owner of 2MM 1665AM the first station to free in 1996 Jim Augerinos Created a program Sports Sunday ATHLITIKI KIRAKI every Sundays from 12:00pm at the Old building at St Peters they once owned another Greek Newspaper TO BHMA (Vema) which we painted on Nick Meridith bold head the lines were busy everyone was pumped up before the matcdays especially home-matches famous Greek bussiness man Kosta Makris from Adelaide who bought once West Adelaide Hellas Stirring up the Sydney Olympic supporters it was chaos the callers expressing their opinion about Sydney Olympic and the Greek football good and bad It did clashed with the popular Program SBS ON THE BALL from 11:30pm -12:30pm with Kyle Patterson and the late great Johnny warren analyzing debating the games in the NSL with debates and interview
It made me rev ed up to the game getting ready in the NSL Summer competition to see our team competing against team that we like and sometimes hate or player Jim Augerinos covered the commentary full matches on 2mm 1665am home and away with his mobile phone headphone commenting in the cooperate boxes and another radio to GALAXIAS on a scanner covering commentator was Con Emmanouil which for me it was easy carrying the radio scanner wth headphone it was crystal clear.
We had an urgent AGM after the departure Nick Politis with Friends Of Sydney Olympic on a Sunday Morning at the Alexander the Great club just before the meeting Graham Athaseris had plain with George Pshaliis Nobody knew the members Like myself of our team Sydney Olympic Fc had the money to enter the NSL final year George Pshalis started the meeting explaining it was going out of control question right left Suddenly I sat the same table with Jim Augerinos He stood up grabbed the microphone and explaining the plain he found a group and the Budget will be in the final year of the NATIONAL SOCCER LEAGUE $900,000 unfortunately we had to let go all the good pl ayes most of them went to play Perth Glory or Parramatta Power which non ethnic club lost millions of dollars.
Jim Augerinos announced the Board members President was Steve Kamper which they saved Sydney Olympic Fc our team made it to the Final year National Soccer league abolishing 49% which is now our hands the members the fans it is my team your team our team playing Oki Jubilee I motion the AGM to bring the Juniors back to Sydney Olympic Fc The final whistle blew against South Melbourne Hellas As for me I was wearing black I was in mourning that NSL that we all grew up had Dismissed After that game I went to ST George leagues club drinking a nice brandy
Today our team Sydney Olympic is still alive the flag is raising which we are in the NSW premier league which I still support win or loose I have the English fan Mentality home and away I did miss teams like South Melbourne and all the NSL teams use to come after the A league was launch and reading a report to be in that competition 5 million dollars and if it would last
The good thing is The ex NSL Clubs who are competing in State leagues when you think about it it saves travel ling costs
The memorable Grand Final in 2011 Sydney Olympic Fc vs Sydney United that we wanted playing at Belmore Sports ground From t of 10,000 fans most of them I haven't see those fans in years since the NSL was Dismissed old fans Old school fans like same age as myself which for me it was surprising and catching up talking before the delay kick off on a Monday Public holiday Labour day.
I wonder if they are coming again in the normal NSW premiere league competition??
I have seen Myself during dramas directors coming and going arguments With coaches one who was a controversial coach and a hot headed Fathers & family's letting out the steam on the Greek radio Sports and the AGM
In 2007 It was a special annerversery the Panhellenic 1957-2007 We did had dramas with Fnsw they thought it was Greek Flag the match inspector came to us to sticki tape every single jearsey which is to me and all the Olympic/Pan Hellenic fans was offending trying to explain it was our historic Panhellenic logo it was an issue but it was good to see John constaine and a famous barrister & Mayor Ron Hoeing from Botany Bay went there sorted the problem with their legal expert after all the season the Pan Hellenic logo and Sydney Olympic logo with the original Blue and white colors with ANT1 Pacific.
That year it was the worst season crowds were so low that we were to embarrassed to write the crowd attendance coming second last coached by Manny Spannoudakis and the assistance coach Chris Kalanztis fans young and old pressuring the board to sack him the directors that year to keep Manny till the end of the season for me and all the fans it was embarrassing on the points table second last we were fearing to be relegated it wasn't the way to on our anniversary year to be like that fans couldn't wait the season to be finished.
During the off field I was wondering the Sydney Olympic fans supporters committee what is going to happen to celebrate Pan Hellenic-Sydney Olympic celebrate and honor for those who was wearing our Pan Hellenic jersey that era our For Fathers
One Director she said she promised do organize as the event officer her idea to hire at Randwick racecourse there were dinning room high class style nothing happen I ask her that time about the anniversary Pan Hellenic she said couldn't hire because that time had horse flue.
I said to myself if it is not Randwick another venue a reception or a hall they did absolutely nothing to me which was disappointing it was a real shame.t nothing happen they let it go swept under the car
John Constantine & ex President Jim Kospetas an AGM meeting at the Cazzie Club at Kingsford announcing they are changing and showing the Sydney Olympic Logo and explaining to the members to affiliate the Eastern Suburbs association for the Juniors playing at Hensley Athletic fields Saturday mornings few years later EX President had broken the relationship it did turn nasty and personal with Botany Bay mayor Ron Hoeng in that period the Juniors It was huge problem the Sydney Olympic Juniors weren't allowed in the Eastern Suburbs You had to feel sorry about the Juniors especially the parents driving them around Sydney It was a big mess Juniors Football Nsw weren't all owed either to be play at Belmore sports Ground It means that Sydney Olympic Juniors had to play away games twice in the rounds during the football season I was listing to the parents frustration I know how they feel I do admire the parents supporting their own kids to peruse their dreams
In 2009 Jim Kospetas resigned as a president from 2005-2009
The Current President and the current Directors Graehme was in charged with the Juniors It was a lot of hard work to bring the Juniors to come back to Belmore trying to be under the Canterbury district area Finaly Our Current President George Giannaros and Graham Athanaseris gave us the fans the wonderful news that Juniors are be playing at our Homeground Belmore Sports ground which was really happy and glad today they still playing I believe they are the superstars of tomorrow.
There were a lot of volunteers seeing Thrillos setting up the soccer nets getting ready for our homematches each person who use to volunteer had a role around the ground in home matches.
I volunteer the past 8 years at match days as an official starting early at Bel more and staying back cleaning the change rooms the grounds getting home late thinking about work the next day
We use to organize alot fund raising annual dances bowling with players and fans every Monday nights Poker night $20.00 selling merchandise during home match days and once year at the Greek Festivals in Sydney at Darling harbor.
I donate once in 08 out of my own pocket $500 dollars to the Sydney Olympic team because I felt like it to me it is passion of our great club the players that time found out and it was nice of them coming to me and saying thank you there were appreciated.
John Kosmina use to coach HAKOA he came to Belmore Sports ground that time Manny Spannoudakis was Technical Director I was at the corprate box that time John Kosmina front seat with Manny watching our team play he was John had is eye on Shannon Cole the game Finnish and I saw both signing the agreement contact realise Shannon to join at HAKOA before the A league competition started.
I was disappointing that Shannon left in half season during the Nsw Premeir League competition his last game was the waratah Tiger turf knock out cup grand final we were runners up against Bankstown City at Seymour shaw park at Sutherland
There is nothing to do once a player leaves from a Nsw Premier league Club and not receiving a compensation fee One thousand dollars
It is the way that FNSW & FFA arrangements I ask few clubs they recieve a compensation Fee they siad to me your joking there disappointing as I was we were not alone One director from APIA said to me to avoid Compensation fee and to make it up to play a friendly match like the Central coast mariners People asking dis we receive compensation fee from Shannon Cole to HAKOA and Ian Ramsey to Adelaide united I have to say this "if you have seen the money then I saw it to" which is to me injustice
I have seen a lot behind the scenes through the years.
Once in 2008 the directors that year couldn't put an application to FNSW against Manly United on a Saturday night and not clash Our Greek Easter day unfortunately I had to leave my family relative on Easter and not had a piece of Lamb which sometimes when I think about it I regret that year in 2008 my relative left Easter Sunday Night 2008 by the time I got back home
Even Milan Blagojevic wasn't happy either to leave his family driving from his house Liverpool to Belmore Sports Ground for the match
We are lucky and grateful that we the Greek community have a 24 hours Greek radio on the AM stations 2MM 1665AM and promoting the NSW premier League and Sydney Olympic Fc informing the fans our Greek Newspapers O KOSMOS and THE Greek Herald
Other nationalities don't have like we have a 24 radio program especially on AM station that we have.
Everyone has their own opinion I always respect it whether We agree or disagree everyone I believe to voice their opinion about our team and the game and most important becoming a Member if we have alot of members Sydney Olympic Fc we can listen and Ideas how to improve our club in the future.
Indecent was at St George Stadium iN 1992 a rainny summer Sunday night when Sydney Olympic Fc vs Marconi Fairfield when our team scored the first goal one Sydney Olympic supporter over the excitment he had a heart attack the crowds turning around to help him while the match had to be played the Ambulance came quickly nobody knows what happen if he was ok.
My memorable NSL moment Is when we drew 2-2 Kris Trajonvski scored the last minute on rainy Sunday night fans were loosing hope they were leaving disappointing scoring the goal spectators pushing shoving to come back at the ground cheering I WAS THERE at Leichardt Oval cheering with my Father l the Olympic fans went wild jumping over the fence cheering celebrating with the player
There were many presidents in the past You will be asking me who was a good president to our Sydney Olympic FC through the years and who was Worst ??
Each person has their own opinion
For myself the late Great Jim Petinelis, Harry Michael's, Steve Kamper and George Giannaros
Today Directors are like us Greek Australian working together as a team long hours meeting finishing till midnight giving up their own personal commitments paying deep from their own pocks all the expenses.
So far we have a home ground at Bel more sports ground and an office which we are all happy securing the next 25 years.
I hope Sydney Olympic to be back in the national competition a B league or the old system of the national Conference
Which I will dream to see all the ex NSL teams it needs a big review from the FFA someone who can understand us and the knowledge .
Maybe I won't see that vision happen
Maybe young fans the Olympic ultras can see that
'
I know that you cannot live on hope alone, but without it, life is not worth living. And you.And you.
Your In Soccer(Football)
Aliti
Sydney Olympic/Pan Hellenic History Tradition Passion
Former Sydney Olympic President Harry Michaels with SBS world game host Les Murray
