Olympic more than just a club for new recruit George Antonis
Following a successful season as the captain of Western Sydney Wanderers’ National Premier Leagues Men’s side, George Antonis has made the switch to Sydney Olympic as he looks to further his career in football.
Being of Greek heritage, Olympic is a club that means plenty to Antonis and his family, where past relatives have graced the famous blue and white strip and are proud of their motherland.
Speaking on the move, Antonis said, “For myself it’s a big club, particularly with my background being Greek.
“I’ve loved the club through grandparents and cousins, and have had people that have played at the club also.
“It’s a club with big expectations and it’s always been a club that’s been at the top.
“Where it was 20 years ago, it still is now.”
The 21-year-old joined up with the squad a few weeks ago, and participated in their successful journey to Queensland for the Hellenic Cup, where they were crowned Champions in a positive start to the side’s season.
“I got lucky with a chance to go to Queensland for the Hellenic Cup and that was a good experience with good team bonding.
“From what I’ve seen it’s a good team and it’s been a great few weeks so far so I’m excited for the season to start.”
As the previous captain of the Wanderers’ NPL side, Antonis will bring a sense of leadership and maturity on young shoulders to combine with his obvious ability and potential as a footballer.
However, when speaking on what he wanted to bring to the side, Antonis was humble, talking about effort and selflessness – the sign of a leader.
“I just want to be there to help the team,” he said.
“Whether it’s on the pitch or off the pitch, just improving results from last year.
“I think we’ve got a team that can do that and I want to be a part of that and create something special with the team.”
But when asked about his goals for the club, Antonis was less subtle, stating: “it’s a big club with big expectations, and I think it’s a team that should be vying for the title which we can do.”
Sydney Olympic will be looking to transfer their positive off-season – with a trophy in hand and a positive signing in Antonis – and push for the title from the very off.
Their season begins against recently promoted Hills United at Belmore Sports Ground on Saturday, the 17th of February, kicking off at 5pm.
By Jack George
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