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
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Website: www.floreatathenafc.com.au