Tara Murray
Caroline Springs George Cross has its sights set on becoming a foundation member of the National Second Division (NSD) competition
The competition, which is set to be between the A-League and National Premier League competitions, is set to kick off in 2025, with the first eight teams having already been announced. The rest of the inaugural teams are set to be announced this year.
In a statement, the Georgies confirmed their steadfast exploration of becoming a foundation member of the new competition.
“The NSD offers the club, players, and the broader community a platform to thrive and contribute to the growth and success of football nationwide,” the statement said.
“With a rich history spanning more than 75 years, the organisation has played a pivotal role in nurturing and developing players at both a grassroots and elite level in both Malta and Australia, boasting a swag of decorated footballers including Socceroos Kevin Muscat, Craig Foster, John Markovski, Manny Muscat and Paul Trimboli.
“After spending much of its rich history in Sunshine, the club has in recent years affirmed its status as one of western Melbourne’s truly diverse and inclusive outfits, operating out of modern and upgraded facilities in Caroline Springs.”
President Mark Sultana is immensely proud of George Cross’ vibrant past, present and future and the new competition is offering a pathway for the club to return to the national stage for the first time since 1991 when it exited the National Soccer League.
“We continue to carefully progress our commitment to bolstering a strong community on and off the park,” he said.
“Our supporters have been enthused in recent times with our success in the iconic Australia Cup and proudly carry their shared Maltese and Australian heritage, creating a cultural tapestry that is woven into the fabric of our club and Melbourne’s burgeoning west.
“While there is much work and careful planning to come, our board, members, supporters, and other key stakeholders are keenly eyeing further developments from Football Australia in regard to progression of the NSD.
“With successive promotions in the past two seasons, Caroline Springs George Cross is in an enviable position on many levels. Thus, it is incumbent upon us to further explore our options in a robust and exciting NSD landscape.”
