Special club formed for Socceroos

Football Federation Australia has announced the establishment of a ‘Socceroo Club’ of former players to assist with the future development of the game.

FFA announced the formation of the alumni ahead of tonight’s World Cup qualifying match between Australia and China at ANZ Stadium.

The ‘Socceroo Club’ will work with FFA to promote and advance the history, culture, values and future of football as well as the Socceroos.

The initial managing committee will include current star Harry Kewell and former greats Ray Baartz, Charlie Yankos and Ted Smith.

“As football continues to experience huge growth and popularity, it is vitally important that we recognise and celebrate the history of the code and also the players who have made significant contributions representing Australia,” FFA chief executive Ben Buckley said.

“Just over 500 men have played football for Australia since the first international match in 1922 and those who have done so continue to be an important part of the game.

FFA said the alumni would: help bring a unity of focus for former national team players, especially as we work with them across a number of areas of mutual interest to advance the game further.”

Baartz said the Socceroos embody the spirit, heritage and tradition of the game.

“Once a Socceroo, always a Socceroo is what were about,” Baartz said.

“All of us who have worn the green and gold have done so with enormous pride and commitment, and we all love this game with a passion.

“Regardless of whether we retired from football 50 years ago or five years ago, we want to continue to contribute to the game and were delighted to be working with FFA to do this on a formal basis across a number of areas.”

Baartz said some of the projects of the group would include a mentoring program for young players, finalising the presentation of caps to former (and current) players, the establishment of Australian Football Awards and upgrading the Hall of Fame.

Seven former Socceroos today received caps from FFA Chairman, Frank Lowy to recognise their time as players.

The group included three members of the 1974 FIFA World Cup squad (Doug Utjesenovic, Ray Richards and Gary Manuel) as well as former Socceroos captain Charlie Yankos, Allan Maher, Ron Corry and Murray Barnes.