Yes they have fired off a few pot shots. The old franchise dig.
https://www.smfc.com.au/2024/08/15/south-melbourne-fc-open-letter-regarding-national-second-division/
Our attempts to join the A-League have been met with disappointment on three occasions, despite our rich history and undeniable contribution to Australian football. These setbacks have not been due to a lack of capability or vision but rather biases against our storied background and flawed expansion strategies that overlooked the essence of what makes a football club truly great.
https://www.smfc.com.au/2024/08/15/south-melbourne-fc-open-letter-regarding-national-second-division/
Our attempts to join the A-League have been met with disappointment on three occasions, despite our rich history and undeniable contribution to Australian football. These setbacks have not been due to a lack of capability or vision but rather biases against our storied background and flawed expansion strategies that overlooked the essence of what makes a football club truly great.
We watched as newer clubs like Melbourne Heart, sustained primarily by foreign investment, and Western United, which has struggled to capture the imagination of the Victorian public, were given opportunities that we believe rightfully belonged to us. Yet, these challenges have only strengthened our resolve. Last week, we again demonstrated our enduring spirit by defeating the A-League outfit Wellington Phoenix in the Round of 32 of the Australia Cup at our picturesque Lakeside Stadium.
We continue to advocate for the commencement of the National Second Tier in 2025, a platform where our historic club can once again showcase its prowess and contribute to the growth of Australian football. Our place is at the forefront, driving forward with the same passion and commitment that has defined us for almost seven decades.
We continue to advocate for the commencement of the National Second Tier in 2025, a platform where our historic club can once again showcase its prowess and contribute to the growth of Australian football. Our place is at the forefront, driving forward with the same passion and commitment that has defined us for almost seven decades.
South Melbourne FC along with the other NST Foundation Clubs went through an extensive RFP & submission process, as well as provide a $500,000 Bank Guarantee based on the understanding & assurances that we would be establishing a standalone home & away second division.
The Association of Australian Football Clubs (AAFC) representing over 300 clubs across Australia was established with a charter to establish a National Second Division. The FA Board & the Executive can choose to ignore the will of the majority of Community based clubs across Australia & continue to protect the interests of 12 private franchises.