History Beckons as UNSW FC Prepare for First-Ever NPL Men’s NSW Campaign
A new chapter in New South Wales football history will be written in 2026 as UNSW FC prepare to compete in the National Premier Leagues Men’s NSW competition for the first time following their promotion from Football NSW League One.
At the helm is Gabriel Knowles, fresh off being crowned Football NSW League One Coach of the Year, with the highly rated coach assembling a competitive and balanced squad capable of stepping up to the state’s top tier.
UNSW FC have bolstered their ranks with several notable new faces ahead of the new season. Experienced goalkeeper Tristan Prendergast adds stability at the back, while former Blacktown City stalwart Grant Lynch brings invaluable NPL experience. Fellow Blacktown City product Lachlan Campbell has also made the move, further strengthening Knowles’ squad.
One of the most eye-catching signings is Jyden Harb, the Futsalroo and 2025 League Two Player of the Year, who will make his debut in the NPL Men’s NSW competition. Highly sought after by multiple rival clubs, UNSW FC won the race for the prolific marksman, underlining their intent to compete from day one.
Further attacking firepower arrives in the form of former Rockdale Ilinden forward Oliver Puflett, alongside additions Antony Barbic and Sean Collins, as UNSW look to blend experience with youthful energy.
Continuity remains a key pillar of UNSW FC’s approach, with Knowles re-signing a large portion of the squad that delivered last season’s League One Premiership. Timothy Wohlfiel, Emilio Vinci, Liam Wood, Matias Da Silva Santos, Tacettin Kumsuz, Kevin Lopes, Nathan Roberts, Jack Fulton, Cassius Flavell, Sean Woods, Corby Fowler, Kai Kamikura, Conor Qulligan, Alex Malfara, Gilbert Duffy and Angus Martin will all don the UNSW FC kit once more, as will experienced defender Claudio Fabiano, whose leadership will be crucial in the step up.
UNSW FC’s historic NPL Men’s NSW journey begins with a stern test in Round 1, as they travel to Edensor Park to face Sydney United 58 on Sunday, 8 February.
It promises to be a challenging introduction to life at the top, but one that marks a milestone moment for the club as they embark on their maiden NPL Men’s NSW campaign.
