By Tonci Prusac
Geelong Soccer Club president Mick Nikolovski this week revealed that almost double the number of players from last season are utilising the overstretched Stead Park facilities, but he remains of the strong opinion that the first year NPL club needs to meet this growing need and not lose sight of the reason ‘they do what they do’.
Speaking on Tuesday night on the Geelong Region Soccer Show on FNR – Football Nation Radio, the Geelong SC president revealed that overall there were over 450 players using the Stead Park facilities.
“This includes our Senior Squads (both Men and Women), Junior NPL Program, our community based club Stead Park Lions as well as NPLW Victoria club Galaxy United, which relocated to our ground last Summer,” explained Nikolovski.
“The reality is that we are experiencing rapid growth, just like a lot of other clubs across the region.
“Whilst this presents some challenges, I’m of the strong opinion that we need to meet this need and not lose sight of the reason we do what we do.
“We are obviously located in a low socioeconomic area and meet the needs of a number of local families, as well as families who travel a fair distance due to their long history and connection with the club,” he said.
In addition, the Lions have an ever-increasing number of girls and women at the club.
“It is amazing to see all these different groups together and bonding around our great sport. That’s the reason we have been so passionate about being inclusive and making sure we cater for all,” continued Nikolovski.
“So rather than focusing on the downside with not having enough space, we are focused on solving that problem,” he said.
The Geelong Region Soccer Show airs 8pm Tuesdays on FNR – Football Nation Radio.
