Floreat Athena boosts senior coaching team

Floreat Athena Football Club is pleased to announce the addition to its senior coaching team under Head Coach Alun Vernals, with high-calibre appointments set to strengthen the club’s football program ahead of the new season.

New coaches (L-R): Paul Harland, Visnu Ravichandar, Alun Vernals and Viktor Sikora

Joining Vernals’ coaching staff is former Dutch international and Perth Glory player Viktor Sikora, who brings a wealth of experience from an illustrious playing career across Europe and the A-League. Sikora also had a short-term loan spell with Athena during the 2011 NPL season.

The Dutchman brings technical insight and deep understanding of the game which will assist in the development of Athena’s senior squad and emerging talent.

Also joining the team is Paul Harland, a respected figure in Western Australian football circles, who has represented Sorrento FC and Kingsway Olympic during his playing career. Harland’s appointment as Assistant Coach adds further local knowledge and tactical expertise to the coaching setup.

Complimenting the new-look team is Vishnu Ravichandar, who steps into the role of Strength and Conditioning Coach. Vishnu boasts an impressive background as the Lead Performance Coach at John Curtin College of the Arts, former Lead Sports Scientist at the Perth Glory Junior Academy, and Strength and Conditioning Coach at Armadale SC over the past two seasons. His focus on athlete development and performance optimisation will play a key role in supporting the club’s ambitions both on and off the pitch.

Vernals said the appointments represent a significant step forward for Floreat Athena’s football program.

“I’m delighted to have assembled a coaching team of this calibre. Viktor, Paul, and Vishnu each bring a unique set of skills and experiences that complement our vision for the club. Their combined expertise will help us build a strong, dynamic, and disciplined squad ready to compete at the highest level.”

Floreat Athena President Sam Albanis welcomed the appointments, noting the club’s continued commitment to excellence.

“These additions reflect Floreat Athena’s ongoing investment in quality coaching and player development. We’re excited about the direction the club is taking under Alun’s leadership and the professionalism of his team.”

With pre-season preparations underway, the club looks forward to an exciting 2026 campaign built on strong leadership, modern training practices, and a shared passion for success.

ENDS

Media Contact:
Floreat Athena Football Club
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.floreatathenafc.com.au

Plaka Food and Catering is proud to host Greek Taverna Nights at Floreat Athena Football Club, 41 Britannia Road Mt Hawthorn, every Tuesday evening from 5pm–9pm

All Bookings via phone or text to 0417 953 388 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Join us for a warm, vibrant dining experience celebrating the flavours of Greece. Our menu showcases beautiful, home-cooked Greek food, prepared with fresh ingredients and locally sourced produce, all designed to be enjoyed in a shared, family-style setting.

This is more than just dinner – it’s an evening of community, laughter, and authentic Greek hospitality. With a full bar service available, simply ask the bar for a drink to complement your meal, from ouzo, Greek Family wines to your favourite classics.

Sample menu;

To Start

• Warm pita bread with homemade dips: tzatziki 
• Grilled peppers 

Main Platters

• Chicken souvlaki skewers with capsicum and onion
• Greek village salad with tomato, cucumber, olives, feta, and olive oil
• Lemon and basil roasted potatoes 
• Lamb Souvlaki skewers with onion 
• Kichi Kozani 

To Finish

• Baklava with walnuts, pistachios, and honey syrup

Adults - $35 per head
Kids - $15

Come hungry and leave full of good food, good company, and the spirit of Greece.

All Bookings via phone or text to 0417 953 388 or by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

See you then!

Dear Members,

Please find attached Media Release

CLICK HERE

Kind Regards,

Management Committee

Floreat Athena FC 

2/9/25

FORMAL NOTICE: FAFC 2025 Annual General Meeting & Elections -  24/09/2025

Dear Members,

Please find documents below:

2025 AGM Formal Notice (English/Greek)

Notice of Nominations for Election (English/Greek)

2023 AGM Minutes

2023 Financial Report

Proxy Form

Please ensure your membership is up to date prior to 17/9/25 in order to vote at the AGM
Update your membership here - Click Here

For Parent / Player Memberships: Click Here

Kind Regards,

Socrates Bakaimis

Secretary 

MEDIA RELEASE

5 August 2025

Floreat Athena FC Unveils Major Changeroom and Clubroom Redevelopment

A multi-million-dollar transformation is complete at Floreat Athena Football Club, with the unveiling of brand-new changerooms and clubrooms—marking a major milestone for one of Western Australia’s most historic football clubs.
The redevelopment, which has been years in the making, began with a $3 million funding commitment from the Federal Liberal Government in August 2018, following successful lobbying efforts by former Western Australian Senator Peter Georgiou.

This critical investment laid the foundation for a full-scale upgrade of the club’s dated facilities at Litis Stadium.

Further backing came from the State Government, which contributed $800,000 towards lighting upgrades, ensuring that the venue meets modern standards for both training and competition. The City of Vincent has also committed to reinstalling perimeter fencing, in line with upcoming infrastructure requirements for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2026, for which Litis Stadium has been identified as a key training venue.

The project was coordinated on behalf of the club by former President Con Poulios, whose tireless volunteer efforts over several years were instrumental in driving the redevelopment from concept to completion.

Floreat Athena President Sam Albanis said the redevelopment represented a major leap forward for both the club and the broader sporting community.
“This project has been years in the making, and today we proudly stand in a space that honors the legacy of our club while embracing the future of football in Western Australia,”

Mr Albanis said. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to former Senator Peter Georgiou for his advocacy in securing the Federal funding, and to the State Government and City of Vincent for their critical support. I also want to acknowledge the incredible voluntary contribution of former President Con Poulios, who acted as project coordinator and committed countless hours to see this project through.”

The refurbished changerooms include gender-inclusive amenities, upgraded medical and physiotherapy areas, modern locker spaces, and enhanced accessibility—making the club a more inclusive environment for all athletes.

This redevelopment aligns with the club’s strategic vision to become a centre of excellence and a host venue during international tournaments such as the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026.
Mr Albanis said the completion of the upgrades also signals a renewed focus on community participation and elite player development.

“These facilities will not only support our senior teams but also help us nurture the next generation of talent through grassroots and youth programs,” he said. “This is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s about building pride, connection, and excellence in football.”

A broader community event is being planned to celebrate this major investment in WA football infrastructure.

 Dear Members, Supporters and Friends,

As we hit mid-season, there’s plenty happening both on and off the pitch.

Here’s your latest update from Floreat Athena FC.

 Quiz Night – Friday, July 4th

Mark your calendars! Join us for an evening of trivia and fun at the clubrooms, Litis Stadium, Britannia Road in Mt Hawthorn.

Doors open at 6:00pm for a 7:00pm start. Bring your friends and test your knowledge over a great night out where the evening will be hosted by Bamboozled Quizmasters.

Full bar facilities available on the night. BYO food/grazing platters, raffles and prizes on offer!

Be welcomed on arrival by the mesmerizing Grecian tunes played by rising bouzouki star George Kalantzis.

Athena teams are encouraged to coordinate a prize or hamper to be included in the quiz night raffle.

In addition, individuals who donate a prize valued at $250 or more are welcome to count this toward their club volunteer hours!

Tickets available here: http://thq.fyi/se/suqfAHo

Sponsors Day – Friday, June 28th
We’re excited to host our valued sponsors for a day of appreciation and community. Direct invites have been sent. If you’re a sponsor and haven’t received yours, please reach out to the club office via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Membership Update
Are you a current member? Have you signed up as a Social Member yet?
Make sure you register to ensure your eligibility for voting at the upcoming AGM.

Parent membership this is your link to activate your voting rights: https://fafc.tidyhq.com/public/membership_levels/8e523b069a56

Standard Membership link: Sign up here to renew your membership today: https://fafc.tidyhq.com/public/membership_levels/8357cfc62dd8

Annual General Meeting (AGM) – Saturday August 30
Subject to the completion of our annual audit,  we are aiming to hold the AGM in late August. Official notices will be sent as per protocols e date is confirmed. We encourage all members to attend and have their say in shaping the future of our club.

Catering Changes
We’re pleased to welcome Soroush and Riccardo, who are now working with FAFC with respect to all things food! This includes Thursday night player dinners, catering for Saturday home games and any other events that the club holds. They currently operate Academy Café in Claremont and Dark Star Coffee in Osborne Park and bring fresh energy and culinary experience to Floreat Athena.

Meanwhile, Greek Bahari—run by Effie and Dimitri—will continue to serve up delicious meals on Tuesday nights as usual. We thank all involved for their contributions to our growing food and beverage program.

Redevelopment Update
Our multi-million-dollar changeroom upgrade is nearing completion, with a handover date set for June 30. While some landscaping may continue after this date, all is on track for a July 1 opening, in line with the City of Vincent’s schedule. Further improvements around the club include:

• Installation of new CCTV cameras
• Upcoming audio/visual system upgrades
• New carpets for Café Neon and the small hall
• Planned bar top and cabinet refurbishments

Exciting times ahead as we modernise our facilities for the benefit of all players, members, and guests.

Thank you for your continued support. As always, stay connected via our website and social media for the latest news and updates.

#OneAthena

With thanks

Your Floreat Athena Football Club Committee and Junior Committee

Dear parents and players of Floreat Athena Football Club,

Welcome back to another busy season for 2025 and for those joining the Athena family for the first time, welcome aboard to the oldest Greek Australian football club in the country. 

INTRODUCTION

Formed in 1951, Athena has unearthed champion players, including Perth Glory great Bobby Despotovski, Socceroo Stan Lazaridis and favourite son Vas Kalogeracos.

Athena has been based at Litis Stadium (formerly Lake Monger Velodrome which was built for the Perth Empire Games in 1962) for almost 50 years and derives its name "Floreat" while previously based at the old Perry Lakes Stadium in the suburb of Floreat and the name “Athena” is derived from the goddess Athena!

Next year we will be celebrating our 75th birthday - but more about that later in the year.

SEASON START

We're excited to welcome all families to the start of the regular season, kicking off this weekend for all MiniRoos and Juniors. Our youngest MiniRoos (ages 6–8) will begin their Saturday cluster games at Britannia Oval, which will be their home ground for the season. Older MiniRoos (9–12) and Junior teams (13–17) will compete both home and away, with Britannia Oval as our base. Fixtures can be found on Squadi and will be updated regularly, so be sure to check in.

For any specific team queries, your team managers and coaches are the best point of contact.

OUR VOLUNTEERS ARE THE HEARTBEAT OF THE CLUB

For those who've stepped up again (or for the first time) to be coaches and team managers - we thank you! We know it's a big commitment to take on these roles. We value you and we appreciate you. 

We love and rely on all volunteers whether it be in the junior canteen, coaching or manning the gate for our senior teams on match day - these duties are important to keep the club ticking over. 

TEAM VOLUNTEERING: Includes match setup, pack up, game helper, ground marshal and canteen- this makes your team run! Your team managers will assign roles.

CLUB VOLUNTEERING: Includes gate keeping at NPL matches, club busy bees, set up for club functions, and NPL matches - this helps the club run! You can register via the sign up register here: 

VOLUNTEER LEVY - For those who DID pay the levy you are excluded from CANTEEN DUTIES in 2025, but not other elements of TEAM VOLUNTEERING - please read the list above.

EXEMPTIONS TO CLUB VOLUNTEERING - If you're a volunteer coach, team manager, sub-committee or board member.

COFFEE VAN IN 2025 - Yes, we heard you coffee addicts! To help reduce the volunteer hours in the junior canteen we are partnering with a variety of coffee van operators to provide caffeine addicts a premium dose of coffee to help prepare for those chilly weekend stints. We will have a range of operators for most weekends during May (except for the 3rd and 17th of May) with a view to have regular spots for every weekend thereafter. 

CLUB POLICIES

We would like to remind everyone that Athena upholds a strong commitment to maintaining a positive and respectful environment both on and off the pitch. Adhering to the club's values and policies (which can be found HERE) is crucial for the enjoyment and safety of all. We love to see you cheering and supporting your team from the sideline but remind all parents to let our coaches provide the instructions to their team.

Athena has a zero tolerance to anti-social behaviour and all forms of violence on and off the pitch. Anyone who breaches the club values and policies will face indefinite suspension and may not permitted to return. Therefore, if you're on the sidelines as an enthusiastic parent cheering on your child, stepping up as a volunteer coach or referee, please be mindful of your actions and reactions. This is a serious matter, and we do not take it lightly.

IMPORTANT DATES AND EVENTS

MiniRoos Season launch (All teams aged 9-12)

This Wednesday (April 30) and Thursday (May 1) the club will be hosting two launches to welcome this important cohort of the club. The launches will take place at the Britannia Club rooms (Leederville Cricket Club) between 6.15pm and 6.45pm. 

Each coach will have an opportunity to welcome and introduce their team. Sausage sizzle and drink pre-order links have already gone out.

Click here to order your food.

 We will try to accommodate payment on the night, but we prefer you pre-order once the follow up email comes through with the link.

WEDNESDAY LAUNCH - For teams that train Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

THURSDAY LAUNCH - For teams that train on Thursday and any other night.

TEAM PHOTOS - will be facilitated during the season. Date yet to be confirmed.

TROPHY DAY - At season end, around mid-September. Date yet to be confirmed.

DID YOU KNOW?

As a registered player or as a parent of a registered player you are eligible for FREE hall hire for a function or event at our Litis clubrooms. Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.

FAMILY PASSES – Please see your team managers for a free family pass to our senior men’s home games, valid for two adults and two children for season 2025

IMPORTANT CONTACTS 

Your queries on all club matters should always be directed to your team managers and coaches FIRST who will then take the matter to the age group coordinators who will then raise the matter with members of the junior committee. Where and if appropriate the matter will be brought to the attention of the board – in most cases the board will be made aware.

Club website: https://floreatathenafc.com.au/joomla/

For junior administration queries: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ( this email is monitored intermittently)

Registration queries: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Football queries  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

Once again, on behalf of the board of FAFC, welcome to season 2025 and we hope this year is another year of growth and learning but most of all fun for our juniors. 

See you on the pitch! 

Kind regards

FAFC Board.

Miniroo clusters season launch: Thanks to all the parents, volunteers, boys and girls who turned out on March April 30 for our 6-8s season launch.

 A fun day was had by all with plenty of play on the main pitch at Litis Stadium. A special shout out to our senior players Josh Hunter and Noah Shamaki (Vice-Captain) who turned out for the day. And thanks to Cr Suzanne Worner from the City of Vincent who popped in to say hello!

Stay tuned for more details regarding our Season Launch for Miniroos 9-12 years (all boys, girls and mixed teams) Details to come. 

Our next event is scheduled for our JDL and JCLS teams - ALL boys and girls - at the clubrooms on Friday April 11. More details to come. 

*CLUB UPDATE - REGISTRATIONS HAVE NOW CLOSED AS OF FRIDAY MARCH 28*

 If you have registered and are still waiting confirmation from the club - don't panic. We have your details and are in the process of reviewing. With changes to Play Football registration our busy team of volunteers are working hard to ensure you are placed into your appropriate team for season 2025. 

For any queries regarding your registration please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

For a comprehensive rundown on all club policies and volunteering duties, families are encouraged to be familiar with the parent handbook which can be downloaded HERE

For those who have registered and have received confirmation, training has now commenced as of April 2nd 2025 at Britannia Oval for all age groups from 6-17.