Rockdale Ilinden Appoint Abbas Saad As 2027 Head Coach

Rockdale Ilinden have confirmed that current First Grade head coach Paul Dee will depart the club at the conclusion of the 2026 NPL Men’s NSW season, with championship-winning coach Abbas Saad appointed as his successor for 2027.

Dee, a former Rockdale Ilinden player, has spent the past four seasons as head coach and oversaw a sustained period of success, including the club’s maiden First Grade Premiership in 2024 and two Grand Final appearances.

Rockdale Ilinden thanked Dee for his significant contribution to the club throughout his four-year tenure.

As one era comes to an end, the club has moved quickly to confirm the appointment of Saad, who will take charge from the beginning of the 2027 NPL season.

Saad brings extensive playing and coaching experience to the role, with his playing career spanning two decades and including a highly successful stint in Singapore.

As a coach, Saad enjoyed one of the most successful seasons of his career in 2018, guiding Sydney Olympic FC to a championship double while also being named Football NSW NPL Men’s NSW Coach of the Year.

More recently, Saad served as head coach of the Central Coast Mariners Academy, continuing his work in player development and helping nurture emerging talent.

Saad also holds a Football Australia Pro Licence.

Rockdale Ilinden said the club was delighted to welcome Saad and believes his experience, coaching credentials and proven record in developing players will provide a strong foundation for the club heading into the 2027 season.

The appointment will see Saad take charge of the side following the conclusion of Dee’s four-season tenure, with Rockdale Ilinden now looking towards a new chapter under their incoming head coach.

The club said it looked forward to seeing the team take to the field under Saad’s guidance in 2027.