No slowing down as Major set to bring more success at Blacktown City

Travis Major is one of the enduring symbols of one of Australian football’s most enduring reigns.

Fresh off yet another Championship in 2022 as the incredible Blacktown City era of dominance continues under coach Mark Crittenden, Major says the Blacktown juggernaut is showing no signs of slowing down.

A new format brings with it new challenges – Blacktown will need to be top after 30 games to claim the Championship in 2023 – but Major is confident squad stability – and the return of another favourite son – will hold Blacktown in good stead for the new season.

“This is the first time I’ve played in this format in the NPL and with it come some other changes like a shorter pre-season and more games, but I think that’s what is making this season such an exciting one,” he said.

“It’s been short, but we’ve had a good pre-season, and we’ve been helped by the fact that there’s not been a lot of turnover in the squad. I think only two players have left, and ‘Critto’ was happy with the squad as it’s the same great core he’s had for so long.

“There are some young boys that will get a chance, and they’ve looked good in training.”

Major credited the stability and leadership provided by coach Crittenden for the enduring success that Blacktown has enjoyed in recent years.

“I think it’s uncommon at any level of football for a coach is in the same role for 12 years,” he said.

“Usually, they’re getting the sack, or they’re jumping clubs, but Critto had been able to maintain success, and that has made it easier to attract great players. They know what they’re going to get when they come here, and they know they’re coming to a club with the systems and the set-up to enjoy success.

“If you come to Blacktown, you come to win, and that’s good because we’re all striving for the same goal.”

Major, who is in his fourth stint at the club over 15 years – spanning back to his days as an under-15 junior at the club – said he was excited to test himself over the 30-game campaign. Still, he was especially looking forward to linking up with livewire Danny Choi once again.

“I think it’s been six years since I’ve had the chance to play a full season with Danny,” he said.

“Last time we did it, we had a really good working relationship, so I’m looking forward to picking that up again and seeing how we can help the team succeed.”