Rockdale Ilinden appoint Paul Dee as new Head Coach

Rockdale Ilinden have appointed Paul Dee as the club’s new head coach for the 2023 NPL NSW Men’s season following the departure of Steve Zoric and assistant Gary Deprato.

After a disappointing end to the 2022 season, Rockdale Ilinden FC stated in its official press release that they parted company with both Zoric and Deprato following its 3-1 Round 22 loss to Manly United over the weekend that all but ended their chances of playing finals football.

“The club would like to thank the outgoing coaches for their efforts during their time at the helm of not only first grade but prior to that, with our under 18 and 20 teams.

“The club as always has high expectations, and our objective is to always play finals football and to be competing at the top end of the ladder.”

The club were delighted to announce Dee’s arrival at the club, a former player, they hoped would bring some much-needed success and silverware to Rockdale.

“Paul’s track record speaks for itself.

“He had enjoyed a highly successful stint at Manly United as head coach.

“Paul is currently overseeing our youth program where during his tenure, results have improved dramatically.

“In addition, Paul is also a former Rockdale player with a deep understanding of the club’s DNA and its expectations.

“The club is excited to have Paul lead the first grade squad, but also to see him implement his football philosophy across all of our senior and youth grades.  Paul will be implementing a uniform structure across the club to ensure that each and every player who plays for the club is able to readily transition and progress through the grades.

“We will shortly follow up with some exciting announcements regarding the remainder of our 2023 coaching and playing line-up.

“Whilst the 2023 season is set to commence earlier, and with 4 additional teams, we will be ready to go come round 1.

“We wish Paul and his coaching team all the very best for 2023,” the club stated in its official press release.