2023 Season Preview

The 2023 NPLM WA season looks like being one of the closest in many years, with a number of clubs recruiting well. Floreat Athena will look for back-to-back titles, but they will have a number of challengers, including Perth RedStar, and Armadale and Inglewood United, who both had good a Night Series, likewise Stirling Macedonia and newly-promoted Olympic Kingsway, who will play in the top flight of WA football for the first time since 1999.

With the carrot of an A-League Division Two spot up for grabs for NPL sides in the future, many clubs are looking for a good season to press their claim, so it sets up an enthralling season. Footballwa.net takes a close look at the twelve clubs – in alphabetic order on how their 2023 season will pan out.

National Premier Leagues WA

ARMADALE

Alfred Skeet Reserve, Forrestdale
Founded: 1972
Coach: John O’Reilly
State Championships: None
State Cups: 1 (2018)
2022: 7th
Goals Scored: 39
Goal Conceded: 44
Top Goalscorer: Angel Andres 9

There has been a changing of the guard at ARMADALE on an off the pitch. New President Chris Bates has hit the ground running, and has supported Head Coach John O’Reilly with new signings, and the clubs Night Series campaign showed things are heading in the right direction. Perennial relegation candidates, last season was the most points ever reached in the NPL for the Alfred Skeet Reserve club, which gave them a seventh placed finish, plus a spot in the State League Cup Final and the Australia Cup round of 32. The club have struggled over the years to mix it with the so-called big boys in the league, but is that about to change, only time will tell. They have added the experienced Amir Ajan, Daniel Robinson, Ali Gholami, and Chris Jackson to name a few, while imports Tim Berger and Connor Walsh has bolstered their quality, and they head into the new season full of confidence.

“We head into 2023 confident we can improve on last season, we’ve set the standard high, and the players have been outstanding since November when we started the pre-season. We’ve done all we can to get them ready for the new season and I can’t wait to get started.” – Armadale Coach John O’Reilly

Players In: Salv Todaro (Coach), Daniel Robinson (Cockburn City), Ali Gholami (Perth SC), Chris Jackson (Sorrento), Ethan Levitt (Canning City), Emerson Alexis, John Cueva (Perth SC), Chad Samuels (Spain), Lachlan Collins (Gwelup), Conor Walsh (Ireland), Tim Berger (Germany)

Players Out: Angel Andres (Dianella White Eagles), Abdul Osman, Gordon Perkins (Perth SC), Tarek Atta (Werribee FC), Alex Fisher (Overseas), Luqman Sayyed, Cherno Bah (Cockburn) Connor Thurston, Isaac Koomson, Charlie Kenna (Retired)

Skipper: Nathan Costello – The defender will again lead the side, a vital member of the Reds backline

Young Player to Watch: Lachlan Collins – He has played in a number of positions for them in pre-season, and has been outstanding.

BALCATTA ETNA

Grindleford Reserve, Balcatta
Founded: 1977
Coach: Glenn Grostate
State Championships: None
State Cups: None
2022: 11th
Goals Scored: 17
Goal Conceded: 51
Top Goalscorer: Ben Hinshelwood 3

Glenn Grostate came in late last season, and kept BALCATTA ETNA in the NPL, and he will be looking to continue that this season and consolidate. It looked like the Grindleford Reserve club were heading into Division One, after not winning a game midway through the season, but a late surge from the club saw them eventually leapfrog Gwelup, only losing twice in the last six games saw them survive. A poor Night Series wasn’t what they were looking for, but the experienced coach has tried to rebuild his squad after a number left the club last season. Jack Allen and John Kearney will add experience at the back, while Japan import Kotaro Yamamoto looks a good signing. They will need to improve in front of goal from last season if they are to stay in the league, having scored only 17 goals, the least in the league, and with Grostate at the helm we think they will, but consistency is the key.

“The club has been working hard both on and off the pitch since retaining NPL football at the end of last season. It's been a difficult pre-season for the side in some ways, as we've had 6 to 7 first team players missing every match of the Night Series, but it’s given me an opportunity to work on different formations and hand game time to some of our up-and-coming teenage players at the club. As we continue to re-build, our main focus will be to stabilise our league position in 2023 and stay away from the drop zone. But I think we'll still surprise a few opposition teams along the way too.” - Balcatta Coach Glenn Grostate

Players In: Jack Allen (Bayswater City SC), Lionel Glorieux (Sutherland Sharks FC), Kotaro Yamamoto (RKU FC - Japan), John Kearney (returns after a two-year break), Ashwin Jayakumar (returns after a three-year break)

Players Out: Clark Keltie (retired), Nelson Tshongo (North Geelong Warriors FC), Anthony Topini (Fremantle City FC), Coby Sutton (Olympic Kingsway SC)

Skipper: Trent Kay – The experienced defender will lead by example as the club search for consistency.

Young Player to Watch: 22-year-old Japanese player Kotaro Yamamoto

BAYSWATER CITY

Frank Drago Reserve, Bayswater
Founded: 1962 (Bayswater United)
Coach: Gareth Naven
State Championships: 4 (2013, 2014, 2015, 2017)
State Cups: 2 (2013, 2014)
Last Season’s Position 5th
Goals Scored: 51
Goal Conceded: 37
Top Goalscorer: Ndumba Makeche 15

BAYSWATER CITY finished last season well, but just missed out on a top four spot, this after a loss at home to Balcatta in the last game of the season, and Gareth Naven will be searching for more consistency in 2023. The former Perth Glory skipper goes into his second season at the club, and he will look to bring finals football to Frank Drago Reserve for the first time since 2018. He has added some quality to his squad, with striker Gustavo Catarcione from Perth SC, while youngster Andrew Maranta has joined from Perth Glory Youth, while a number of their younger players will look to make an impact this season, there supporters will be hoping for a good season, and we think they will to.

“The boys have had an excellent preseason and continued to improve our fitness and game strategy throughout the night series. We believe we have the ability in our playing group to challenge for all trophies and we are looking forward to a strong 2023 Season.” – Bayswater City Coach Gareth Navan

Players In: Gustavo Catarcione (Perth SC), Samuel Dweh (Gwelup), Jackson Stephens (Adelaide), Andrew Maranta (Fremantle / Perth Glory)

Players Out: Jack Allen (Balcatta)

Skipper: Steve Hesketh – The experienced defender takes the armband this season, and his leadership will be vital during the season.

Young Player to Watch: The club have found some talented youngsters, and will be looking for Samuel Dweh, Corey McNelis and Ben Thorep to push for a spot in the first team this season

COCKBURN CITY

Dalmatinac Park, Spearwood
Founded: 1929 (Spearwood Rovers)
Coach: Steven McDonald
State Championships: 3 (1979, 1982, 1986)
Cup Winners: 4 (1983, 1984, 1985, 2022)
2022: 5th
Goals Scored: 29
Goal Conceded: 38
Top Goalscorer: Harry O’Brien 10

COCKBURN CITY won their first silverware since 2012, when they won the Division One title, after their State League Cup win last season. But their Cup run and Australia Cup tie made their league form suffer, and they were relegation candidates for a while. They were well clear of the drop zone at the end of the season, but only one win in their last five games was disappointing, and new coach Steven McDonald will be looking for an improvement in 2023. The former Sorrento defender is in his first senior coaching role, and he would have been disappointed in their Night Series campaign, where they never won a game, but the new players will take time to gel, the sooner the better if they are to stay clear of trouble.

“As this is my first Season as Head Coach, I would love to say that we are going to go all the way and win everything in sight, but I also have to be realistic and understand that there are some great teams in this league, that we will have to be at our best to beat. Right now, we are a young team with plenty of enthusiasm and determination to succeed. We know that we have some work to do to be competing with the top teams, but everything I have asked of this group of boys they have done. If we keep progressing the way we have done since the start of the preseason then there is no reason that I can think of that wouldn’t suggest that we can’t build on the success of last year. Our aim this year will be to have another great cup run, and really push for top four, and who knows what can happen from there, you have to have some luck in this game, but I’m a firm believer in you make your own luck.” Cockburn City Coach Steven McDonald

Players In: Friday Zico (Gwelup), Cherno Bah, Luqman Sayyed (Armadale), Josh Periera, Sebastian De Silva, Levi Petersen, Frankie Kinnen, John Guya, Raphael Gomba, Slobodan Vulin and Euen Grant both returning from long term injuries in

Players Out: Ryan Barker (Fremantle City), Daniel Robinson (Armadale) , Michael Scaffetta (Perth) , Alex Basto (Overseas signing

Skipper: Jesse Lazzaro and Euen Grant will share the captaincy, and both will be important players this season.

Young Player to Watch: McDonald said they have a number of young players that will be looking to push through into the first team this year, as we really look to promote our youth players through the ranks and let them compete at the highest level possible. This is why we have 20 homegrown junior names in a PPS, with the likes of Charlie Garnham, Frankie Kinnen, Levi Petersen, Luca Caceres, Raphael Gomba and Callan Baker.

FLOREAT ATHENA

E&D Litis Stadium, Mt Hawthorn
Founded: 1951
Coach: Vas Vujacic
State Championships: 5 (1977, 1988, 1997, 2007, 2022)
State Cups: 6 (1987, 1988, 1989, 1997, 2009, 2019)
2022: 1st
Goals Scored: 54
Goal Conceded: 35
Top Goalscorer: Robert Petkov 13

FLOREAT ATHENA produced a dramatic last day of season 2022, with Bayley Brown-Montgomery scoring a stoppage time goal to seal their fifth title on the final day of the season. Vas Vujacic goes into his fourth season at the club, where he has led them to a top three finish in the last three, and they will be one of the favourites to take out the title again this season. They failed to make it out the group stage in the Night Series which was disappointing, but their squad is bristling with talent, and the addition of Noah Shamaki will be a huge plus. Many will have them as title favourites again, but being Champions, they will be the hunted this season, so need to be at their best, but we believe they will be there or there about come the end of the season.

“Last season showed what an even competitive league this is, I think this year will prove even tougher. The top teams from last year look strong again, mid table sides have all strengthened plus the arrival of an ambitious Kingsway will ensure a high level of competition again.” – Floreat Athena Coach Vas Vujacic

Players In: Noah Shamaki

Players Out: Jawad Rezai – (Hume), Liam Murray – (Kingsway), Laat Mathiang – (Perth Glory)

Skipper: Jason Saldaris – The keeper will continue in his role, and he had been huge in his time at the club, a leader and never lets them down.

Young Player to Watch: Alex Christoudolakis - Has had some solid games in the night series under his belt, and hopefully he can continue to develop.

INGLEWOOD UNITED

Inglewood Stadium, Inglewood
Founded: 1952
Coach: Andres Oliveira
State Championships: 1 (1996)
State Cups: 2 (1977, 1999)
2022: 6th
Goals Scored: 26
Goal Conceded: 27
Top Goalscorer: Manase Abandelwa 8

INGLEWOOD UNITED finished a disappointing sixth last season, and lack of goals hurt them, but after a successful Night Series, beaten in a penalty shootout in the final, plus a number of new faces, things are ticking along nicely as the club look for their first Premier League title since 1996. Andres Oliveira goes into his fifth season at the helm of the club, and there is a good feeling in and around the club. The coach has brought in the likes of Michael Domfeh, who has been on fire in the Night Series, while Carian Salinger and Shubham Mokala, will add experience, to an already talented squad, and they will be amongst the favourites to take out the title this season.

“We continue building from last year by bringing in very experience quality players with a winning mindset to help us push further forward in Cups, Night Series and the league table.” – Inglewood United Coach Andres Oliveira

Players In: Michael Domfeh (Stirling Macedonia), Ciaran Salinger (Gwelup Croatia), Matt Ntoumenopoulos Shubham Mokala (Perth SC), Rene Ali, Joe Marino, Dylan White

Players Out: Manase Abandelwa, Thiak Kuel, Hermon Michaele, Josiah Godfrey, Callum Mellowship

Skipper: Alex Dunn – The experienced gloveman will captain the side again, a leader both on and off the pitch.

Young Player to Watch: Chris Tillson – The talented defender was outstanding in the Night series and will have a huge role to play for the club this season.

OLYMPIC KINGSWAY

Kingsway Sporting Complex, Landsdale
Founded: 1953
Coach: David Tough
State Championships: 2 (1978, 1980)
State Cups: None
2022: State League Division One Champions
Goals Scored: 63
Goals Conceded: 15
Top Goalscorer: Ciaran Byrne 19

OLYMPIC KINGSWAY will play Premier League football for the first time since 1999, this after promotion from the State League last season. The introduction of Head Coach David Tough has turned things around for the northern suburbs club, and a successful return to the top flight of WA football saw them claim the Night Series title last week. The ‘Green Machine’ won the State League Division One title by 11 points and went unbeaten at home, and after adding experienced players such as Liam Murray, Daniel Walsh and Ollie Annis, the coach will be looking for more of the same in 2023, and many pundits believe they will be contenders.

“I am absolutely thrilled to be leading our club back into the top division after 24 long years. The amount of hard work that has gone into getting us to this point is immense, but we are confident that we have a squad that can compete at this level.” – Olympic Kingsway Coach David Tough

Players In: Liam Murray – (Floreat Athena), Daniel Walsh – (Gwelup Croatia), Sasa Njegic – (Dianella White Eagles), Ollie Annis – (Sorrento), Malek Kuc – (unattached), Oscar Barry – (Gwelup Croatia), Johnny Chalmers – (Western Knights)

Players Out: Tommy Amphlett – (Retired), Ritchie Howles – (Stirling), Nic Koefler – (Kingsley Westside), Andrew Scaldaferro – (Gwelup Croatia), Ewan Fawcett

Skipper: Shane Cassidy – The experienced WA State team defender played a vital role in Olympic promotion, and is a great choice as skipper and is a great leader on the park.

Young Player to Watch: Josh Samson – The midfielder shone last season, and was a standout in the recent Night Series, looks set for a big season.

PERTH

Dorrien Gardens, West Perth
Founded: 1950
Coach: Marc Wingell
State Championships: 24 (1960, 1962, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1975, 1976, 1981, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2021)
State Cups: 11 (1960, 1965, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1981, 1990, 1993, 2001, 2005)
2022: 9th
Goals Scored: 35
Goals Conceded: 29
Top Goalscorer: Hasani Sinclair 15

PERTH SOCCER CLUB finished a disappointing ninth place last season, but it was a transition season for Head Coach Marc Wingell, and he will be looking for an improvement in 2023. The Dorrien Gardens club have been the benchmark in WA football over the years, winning 24 League titles, but to add another they need to be more consistent, and with the signings of exciting trio Gordon Perkins, Abdul Osman and Zayd Farah will help them do that. They went close to the Night Series semi-finals, but after a poor start, they finished well and back-to-back to wins so them agonisingly miss out. Is it time for the Azzurri to rise, only time will tell, but they will be in the mix.

Players In: Gordon Perkins (Armadale), Abdul Osman (Armadale), Zayd Farah (Bayswater City), Michael Scafetta (Balcatta), Jeremy Mba, David Ninkovic, Archie Whitfield, Mason Tatafu

Players Out: Shubham Mokola (Inglewood), Ali Gholami (Armadale), Sam Reilly

Skipper: Jordan de Leo – The defender will continue his role at the club, and his energy and work rate is an example for the rest of the squad

Young Player to Watch: N/A

PERTH GLORY

Home Venue - Lark Hill Sportsplex, Port Kennedy
Founded: 1995
Coach: John Walmsley
State Championships: None
State Cups: None
2022: 8th
Goals Scored: 32
Goals Conceded: 39
Top Goalscorer: Ciaran Bramwell 8

PERTH GLORY will have a new man in charge this season, with experienced coach John Walmsley joining the program from Bayswater City to replace Kenny Lowe as Head Coach, with Lowe continuing his role as the Academy Director at club. Once again there has been a big turnover of players in the club’s youth academy, but some of last season’s youngster, the likes of Jacob Muir, Adam Zimarino, Jacob Young, Kaelan Majeks, Jacob Forde, Trent Ostler and Chris Donnell all gained experience in the A-League and Young Socceroos duties, so things look promising for the group. An eighth-place finish last season was disappointing, but the youngsters went toe-to-toe with all the teams, and that was impressive, but I’m sure they will be looking for an improvement in 2023.

“We are looking forward to the season ahead. The squad is young with a lot of changes from last year, but we have a good group with a strong work ethic. The challenge for us is being consistent with our approach each game as our young players look to perform effectively at senior level.” Perth Glory Coach John Walmsley

Players In: Laat Mathiang, Luke Hewings, Julian Kelly, Luca Lovene. All others progressed internally from U18s and U20s

Players Out: Ciaran Bramwell, Jayden Leader, Tyler Vecchio, Charlie Leech, Aidan Edwards, Joe Hobson, Lebib Lebib

Skipper: Chris Donnell / Aiki Tsukamoto

Young Player to Watch: - Daniel Bennie – The exciting winger was outstanding last season, and there is more to come.

PERTH REDSTAR

ECU Joondalup Football Stadium, Joondalup
Founded: 1992 (Joondalup City)
Coach: Callum Salmon
State Championships: 2 - As ECU Joondalup (1999, 2020)
Cup Winners: 2 - As ECU Joondalup (1998, 2002)
2022: 2nd
Goals Scored: 62
Goals Conceded: 32
Top Goalscorer: Daryl Nicol 34

PERTH REDSTAR inaugural season ended well, after taking out the Top Four Finals Series, and they were also moments away from the title, but we all know what happened, with Floreat denying them a first title under their new merger. Head Coach Callum Salmon hasn’t rested on his laurels adding former Perth Glory duo Riley Warland and Gomo Dukuly, but the loss of Sami Riak in the middle of the park, will be a huge blow, plus losing skipper Ellis Healing to another knee injury will also hurt them. The club have big ambitions on and off the park in the northern suburbs his season, but they were a little disappointing in the Night Series, but with the squad they have they will be there or there about come the end of the season.

“Really excited for the season to start and apart from Ellis (Healing) injury we are happy with the group and aiming to achieve. Ideally, we’d like to win silver ware and we believe the group is capable of doing that. I think the season will be tough and full of challenges. Each team in the league has strengthened, recruited well and there won’t be any easy games. That said, we are ready for the season to start, we have a tough run of games and we are aiming to get off to a winning start away at Perth.” – Perth RedStar Coach Callum Salmon

Players In: Riley Warland (Gwelup Croatia), Gomo Dukuly (Gwelup Croatia), Sonny O Shea, Sean O Connor, Theo Leeming, Ollie Leeming and Nyle Weale. (All promoted from the club’s youth set up)

Players Out: Sami Riak (Wollongong)

Skipper: Blair Govan – The big defender had a strong season at the Campus, and is a great leader, he will take over the armband from the injured Ellis Healing.

Young Player to Watch: Theo Leeming – The youngster impressed in the Night Series and can play a number of roles up front, and he will be hoping to make his mark in 2023.

SORRENTO

Percy Doyle Reserve, Duncraig
Founded: 1971
Coach: Steven McGarry
State Championships: 4 (2001, 2006, 2008, 2012)
State Cups: 3 (2011, 2012, 2015)
2022: 4th
Goals Scored: 50
Goals Conceded: 34
Top Goalscorer: Gustavo Giron-Marulanda 14 SORRENTO will go into their 36th season in the top flight of WA Football, and they will have a new man in the dugout, after the club parted ways with Trevor Morgan during pre-season, and brought in former Perth Glory assistant coach Steven McGarry. There is also a new look off the park as well, with long time President Derek Harnwell stepping down, with Nico Hoyle taking over, as the Gulls will go in search of a fifth title, the last one coming in 2012. They made the Top Four Finals last season, and they will look to improve this season, but with the new coach coming in after the transfer window closed, it will be a tough job for McGarry, but if anyone knows the Scotsman, he will be up for the challenge, and they will be in the mix.

I think everyone at the club is looking forward to the season ahead. I’ve only been in a short spell so it’s been important to get straight to work on the training ground and the players have responded very well to all the info, there effort and focus so far has been first class.” Sorrento Coach Steven McGarry

Players In: Connor Campbell (Stirling Macedonia), John Connolly (Burscough FC UK), Mark Withers (Maia Lidador (Portugal), Jai Rawlings (Joondalup United)

Players Out: Shaun Kilkelly (Joondalup United), Ollie Annis (Olympic Kingsway), Chris Jackson (Armadale), Joel Driscoll, Byungtae Ahn Jesse Owuor

Skipper: Dean Cummings – The English midfielder will continue his role this season, and will be vital if the Gulls are to challenge.

Young Player to Watch: Patrick Hughes – The keeper was outstanding last season, and produced a number of fine saves, he will look to continue his good form in 2023.

STIRLING MACEDONIA

Macedonia Park, Balcatta
Founded: 1958
Coach: Ian Ferguson
State Championships: 6 (1983, 1984, 1985, 1987, 1994, 1995)
State Cups: 6 (1980, 1992, 1996, 2006, 2007, 2010)
2022: 3rd
Goals Scored: 29
Goals Conceded: 22
Top Goalscorer: Calvin Whitney 7

STIRLING MACEDONIA'S return to the Premier League last season was a huge success, the club finished third and were in contention for the title, a great season after their two-year hiatus from the NPL. Many are tipping they will go one further in 2023, and with former Perth Glory coach Ian Ferguson in charge, you wouldn’t be surprised if they did. The Scotsman had his side tough to breakdown, and they only conceded 22 goals in the season, the best in the league. But at the other end they struggled, only scoring 29, and that is a concern moving forward, but with the signing of Kingsley Eshun and Richard Howles they might just have fixed it, and they will once again by there or there about.

“We’re all looking forward to the new season, and we have added some new players to hopefully make us stronger for the challenges ahead.” Stirling Macedonia Coach Ian Ferguson

Players In: Kingsley Eshun (Hartley Wintney, UK), James Mc Gowan (Albion Rovers, Scotland), Kade Fearnall (Gwelup Croatia), Daniel Faichney (Gwelup Croatia), Richard Howles (Olympic Kingsway), Daniel Zivkovic (Perth SC), Taigo Mtomba (Perth Glory Youth)

Players Out: Shay Donavan, Luke Garas, Michael Domfeh (Inglewood United), Jack Rycroft

Skipper: - Dejan Spaseski – The midfielder will continue to captain the side this season, and will again lead from the front, and he will be hoping to keep injury free

Young Player to Watch: Daniel Zivkovic – The youngster has joined the club from Perth, and has been good in the Night Series, and will give them more options going forward.

Like the NPL, the State League Division One title will be closely fought, with a number of teams pushing for a return to the top flight of WA Football, and after the thrilling Night Series Final showed us, it will go down to the wire. Mandurah City, Fremantle City, Western Knights and Gwelup Croatia are amongst the favourites, while Murdoch University Melville and Rockingham City, are also both in contention, and I’m sure the other teams in the league will have their say over the season, and with the new NPL/Division One playoffs coming in, it should be an exciting season. Footballwa.net takes a close look at the twelve clubs – in alphabetic order on how their 2023 season will pan out.

DIANELLA WHITE EAGLES

Dianella Reserve, Dianella
Coach – Darren Quinncroft / Steve Burton
2022 – 9th
Goals scored – 68
Goals conceded – 20

It was a tough first season back in Division One for DIANELLA WHITE EAGLES, and a ninth placed finish was disappointing, and the club parted ways with coaches Bobby Despotovski and Stewart Moses, and they have brought in Darran Quinncroft and Steve Burton, and the pair have been given the responsibility of steering the club forward. They have hit the ground running bringing the experienced striker Angel Andres Rivera, and keeper Dejan Aleksic, while imports Matt Francis, Jack Taylor, Kevin McEvoy, Uniss Kargo and Mitchell Byrne will bolster the squad, will that be enough to challenge for promotion, only time will tell for their passionate supporters.

“Excited to get the season started will be a very competitive league with a lot of team’s recruiting well. We are still in working progress, we have 17 new players to the squad, so trying to gel everyone together as well learning the way we want to play this season, I’m confident we will be Top Four come end of the season.” Coach Darran Quinncroft

Players In: Angel Andres Rivera (Armadale), Matt Francis (FCY Academy (England), Paris Shirzadi (unattached), Will Gallagher (Bayswater), Damian Damjanoski (unattached), Jack Taylor (England), Allen Patarov (Ashfield), Asa Sippits (Morley), Kevin McEvoy (Wexford FC Ireland), Jason Stepanovski (Subiaco), Dejan Aleksic (unattached), Billy Quinncroft (Morley), Uniss Kargbo (Cork City Ireland), Kane Fitch (Fremantle), Mitchell Byrne (Wexford FC Ireland), Shawn Peppin (Canning), Lawrence Shuruma

Players Out: Gavin Gillies (Joondalup United), Sasa Njegic (Olympic Kingsway), Syakir Shariff, Sebastian Stenqvist (MUMFC), Nathan Diaz, Peter Pilkadaris (Balga)

Skipper: – Keeper Dejan Aleksic

Young Player to Watch: Uniss Kargbo

FORRESTFIELD UNITED

Hartfield Park, Forrestfield
Coach – Eric Williams
2022 – 8th
Goal scored – 33
Goals conceded – 53

After relegation from the NPL in 2018, FORRESTFIELD UNITED have struggled to regain that form, and last seasons eighth placed finish was their worst since returning to State League football, and the club parted ways with Richard Abrams, and replaced him with the experienced Eric Williams. The club have had a huge turnover of players in 2023, but they have one of the best junior academies in the state, and Williams will look for some of the youngsters to step up this season. From last season’s squad of 26 only five have remained, with Daryl Platten and Laurance Todd amongst them. Williams has brought in some quality, Nick Stone between the sticks, and Ali Nazary, but do they have the depth to challenge, only time will tell.

“We do not have enough experienced players at the moment, so we will have to be organised, disciplined and competitive. We have now decided on the squad after trialling many players, and we are expect our season to be very difficult with a large number of young players coming into consideration....players for the future.” - Coach Eric Williams

Players In: Nick Stone, Faizullah Nasiri, Oliver Naughton, James Bourne, Thang Sangpichung, Jason Pottier, Ali Nazary, Galey Zangpo, David McGuinness, Tahir Rezai, Zakir Hussain, Emerson Di Mattina

Players Out: Only five remained from last season

Skipper: Nick Stone

Young Players to Watch: Israel Ngoy 17, Noah Appleby 19, Emerson Di Mattina 18, Thang Sangpichung 17.

FREMANTLE CITY

Hilton Reserve, Hilton
Coach – Matthew Sparrow
2022 – 4th
Goal scored – 50
Goals conceded – 28

FREMANTLE CITY will be one of the favourites for the title in 2023, and good Night Series has shown the quality the port side have. With Cameron Lord moving to A-League club Perth Glory, Matthew Sparrow has taken over the reins at the club as they aim for Premier League football for the first time since 1987, when they were known as East Fremantle Tricolore. Since returning to Division One in 2018 the club have been in the Top Five every season since, and after adding a number of experienced players, the likes of Alex McClean, George Festa and Oli La Galia, they are in a strong position to make the step up to the NPL, and we believe they will be there or there about come the end of the season.

“Really excited about the new season ahead, we’ve got a great group of players here that are all willing to work together and buy into the way we want them to play, individually and collectively they’ve been fantastic so far. But we all know the hard works starts round One as it’s such a short season we need to get off to a flyer just like everybody else so it’s going to be challenging along the way as there are so many good teams now in the league aiming to go up especially now there’s a chance for more one team to go up via the play offs.” - Coach Matthew Sparrow

Players In: Ryan Barker, Pat Loughrey, Gio Soares, Ollie Parry, Anthony Topini, Alex McClean, Elliot Ireland, Oli La Galia, George Festa, Martin Galvao

Players Out: Kane Fitch, Gavin Knight, Elliot Tattersall, Luke Christie, Corey Towle

Skipper: Hayden Stevens, leads my example on and off the pitch

Young Players to Watch: Oli La Galia - Talented boy who has everything you need to be a top striker at this level and beyond. Strong and quick so I’m expecting goals from him this season with the right service.

GOSNELLS CITY

After promotion to Division One as Champions last season, GOSNELLS CITY was rocked with the departure of coaches Marc Anthony and Cathal Lennon to Morley Windmills, but they have acted quickly to fill the void, bringing in former Sorrento assistant coach Ross Greer. The club have lost a number of players, who have followed their former coach, but Greer has acted quickly, bringing in a number of players to Walter Padbury Reserve, and they have experienced striker Jamie Burns and skipper Scott Pereira, but do they have the depth, not many think so, so it could be a long season for the club.

Players In: N/A

Players Out: N/A

Skipper: N/A

Young Player to Watch: N/A

GWELUP CROATIA

Croatian Sporting Club, Gwelup
Coach – Trim Morgan
2022 – 12th (Relegated from NPL)
Goal scored – 18
Goals conceded – 54

The rise of GWELUP CROATIA came to an end last season, the club relegated from the NPL, but the rise of the northern suburbs club has been a great effort from everyone involved, especially after only entering the league in 2017, and winning the Division One and Two titles in 2017 and 2019 respectively, and they have big ambitions to return to the NPL sooner rather than later. They will have a new coach this season with Trim Morgan taking over, and after a good pre-season, things are looking bright. There has been a lot of changes in the squad, the likes of Andrew Scaldaferro and Josiah Godfrey joining, while imports Jacob Williamson, Robert MacDonald, Junghun Kim and Charles Chechlacz gives the squad some much need experienced. They will be close this season, but do they have the depth to challenge for the title, this is something we will have to wait and see.

“We’ve been playing well during pre-season. The boys have been fighting hard and working tooth and nail for each other. We need to now carry that on into every game we play and the results will speak for themselves.” Assistant Coach - Willie Kelly

Players In: Josiah Godfrey (Inglewood United), Andrew Scaldaferro (Olympic Kingsway), Paul Grant (Stirling Panthers), Jack Lavis (Forrestfield United), Amose Kindu (Wanneroo City), Cameron Yorke (Western Knights), James Rushton-Woods (North Perth United), Charles Chechlacz (University of Rio Grande, USA), Charlie Breen (Mandurah City), Jacob Williamson (Aylesbury Vale Dynamos, England), Junghun Kim (Gimhae FC, Korea Republic), John Lahai (Balga), Mella Loding (Quinns FC), Lucas Sassanelli (Olympic Kingsway), Emmanuel Langoya (Subiaco AFC), Robert Macdonald (Milton Keynes Irish, England), Lewis Robinson (Ashfield), Matthew Henry (Western Knights)

Players Out: Cyril Sharrock (Rockingham City), Ciaran Salinger (Inglewood United), Daniel Faichney (Stirling Macedonia), Lachlan Collins (Armadale), Friday Zico (Cockburn City), Kade Fearnall (Stirling Macedonia), Adam Falcone (UWA-Nedlands), Carl Dias (Werribee City, Victoria), Sebastian Hooshangian (Murdoch University-Melville FC), Gomo Dukuly (Perth RedStar), Riley Warland (Perth RedStar), Samuel Dweh (Bayswater City), Jordan Pokler (UWA-Nedlands), Oscar Barry (Olympic Kingsway), Aiden Formston (Murdoch University-Melville FC), Daniel Walsh (Olympic Kingsway), Sebastian Da Silva (Cockburn City), Rene Kisesa (Inglewood United), Jason Petrie (Joondalup City), Roman Gajardo Castillo.

Skipper: Paul Grant

Young Player to Watch: Jacob Williamson (midfielder)

JOONDALUP UNITED

Forrest Park, Padbury
Coach – Nick Jennings
2022 – 7th
Goal scored – 30
Goals conceded – 44

It was a disappointing season for JOONDALUP UNITED, and their seventh placed finish wasn’t what the cub were looking for. But their biggest fight is off the pitch, with the ground situation with the local council making the headlines, and everyone at Footballwa wishes them all their best in their efforts to sort it out. Nick Jennings’ side were relegated from the NPL back in 2018, but have struggled to push for a return, but the coach has brought in some quality to the squad this season, the likes of Shaun Kilkelly and Elliot Tattersall from Sorrento and Balcatta respectively. Will this make them promotion candidates, we will have to wait and see.

“As ever Division One will be ultra-competitive every week, a few clubs have really thrown the kitchen sink at going up, but our ambition has to be to make the new promotion play offs.” Coach Nick Jennings

Players In: Shaun Kilkelly (Sorrento), Paul Murray (Ireland), Vasco DaSilva (Subiaco), Laurits Christopherson (Sorrento 20s), Wes Casimir (Quinns), Jackson Dongray (Quinns), Elliot Tattersall (Balcatta), Gavin Gillies (Dianella), Vlad Naumovski (Ashfield), Callum Speed (Morley)

Players Out: Brad McDonald (Morley), Adam Buckley (Morley), Jamie Stewart (Joondalup City), James Oldroyd and Scott Hoyle both retired.

Skipper: Ben Johns

Young Player to Watch: Joel Solitt – He was injured for virtually all last season and won’t be fit for the start of this season, but when he returns, I expect him to be flying.

MANDURAH CITY

Peelwood Parade, Halls Head, Mandurah
Coach – Jon Baird
2022 – 2nd
Goal scored – 71
Goals conceded – 33

Things are going well at MANDURAH CITY, the club lifting the first piece of silverware for the season, taking out the State League Night Series, and many believe they are the team to beat in 2023, and we agree with them. Player/Coach John Baird has a great mix of experience and youth in his squad this season, and with the addition of former Celtic and Scotland international striker Leigh Griffiths for the season will only improve it. A second placed finish last season was the best since the club were relegated from the NPL in 2017, and with the big home supporter, they will be hard to stop, but I’m sure they will face a challenge from a number of clubs.

“This season is going to be a challenge, but we are confident we can continue our form from last season and the Night Series. It’s quite simple really, win every game and you will be champions, that’s our aim for 2023.” Coach John Baird

Players In: Aaron McGready, Brad Spout, James Oldfield, Jordan Rhodes, Leigh Griffiths, Robbie Galvin, Shaun Mukwevho

Players Out: Dylan Wilson, Charlie Breen

Skipper: Harry Collins

Young Player to Watch: We have a number of talented youngsters, so too many to mention

MURDOCH UNIVERSITY MELVILLE

Murdoch University Football Arena, Murdoch
Coach – Taki Nicolaidis
2022 – 5th
Goal scored – 40
Goals conceded – 33

It’s been so near, yet so far for MURDOUCH UNIVERSITY MELVILLE since the two clubs merged in 2018, a top five finish every season since, but they haven’t made the next step. They won the Night Series last season, but went on to finish fifth and miss out on the Top Four Finals, and coach Taki Nicolaidis, who goes into his third season at the club, has been busy in the transfer market to bolster the squad, with Decaln Collins, Eddie Wynne-Willson and Sebastian Stenqvist to name a few. The Night Series this season didn’t go to plan, but with the new signings on board will they make a push for NPL football, only time will tell.

“We are looking to continue to develop and grow as a team/club and definitely improve on what we did last season.” Coach Taki Nicolaidis

Players In: Aiden Formston, Will Formston, Brodie Langan, Declan Collins, Francisco Caballero, Preston Gilling, Sebastian Hooshangian, Noah Lummert, Moses Macauley, Nathan Ng, Sebastian Stenqvist, Iljas Ahmedov, Eddie Wynne-Willson

Players Out: Ben Pellizzari, Tom Pellizzari, Dylan Urquhart, Joseph Gan, Josh Gardner, Kaito Imada, Jason Pottier, Tim Robertson, Tom Speziali, Kai Jones

Skipper: Tom Allen

Young Player to Watch: No single young player however we do have a good group of youngsters to watch.

ROCKINGHAM CITY

Lark Hill Sportsplex, Port Kennedy
Coach – Darren Donachie and Kris Donnell
2022 – 6th
Goal scored – 39
Goals conceded – 47

After relegation from the NPL in 2021, last season was one of consolidation for ROCKINGHAM CITY, and a sixth placed finish would have pleased coaches Darren Donnachie and Kris Donnell. The club have added some experienced to their young squad, with former keeper Cyril Sharrock returning, while former Perth Glory Youth player Jayden Leader has also returned to the club. They made the knockout stage of the Night Series, before losing to eventual winners Mandurah, and they will be looking to better, and beat last seasons finish. They will be a side to watch this season, and we believe they will better last seasons finish.

“It’s a new era at the club, with our stance being to bring the local young talent back to the club and give them opportunities in the first team, this is a very young squad that we believe will go on to great things together. The goal is to aim for the top four and continue on from last season’s successful finish in the top six. The club as a whole is in great condition and we believe this is the right way to go to both be sustainable and competitive for many years to come.” Coach Kris Donnell

Players In: Joe Moss, Max Worswick, Charlie Watt, Jayden Leader, Kyle Hassell, Cyril Sharrock, Dylan Urquhart, Bradley Vlachy, Luke Christie

Players Out: N/A

Skipper: Ollie McGee

Young Players to Watch: Stewart Kerr, Will Hayes, Joe Moss, Max Worswick, Brad Vlachy, Nathan Banks

SUBIACO AFC

Rosalie Park, Subiaco
Coach – Michael Janssen
2022 – 10th
Goal scored – 31
Goals conceded – 47

SUBIACO AFC struggled in 2023, and a tenth placed finish, was disappointing, but they miss the relegation playoffs, and they have changed coaches this season, with Michael Janssen taking over from Goran Stajic. The club were relegated from the NPL in 2018, and have finished in tenth place for the last four seasons, something has to change. But after a disappointing Night Series and elimination from the Australia Cup, it looks like being a long season for the Rosalie Park club, but with experienced striker Gavin Knight in the side they could surprise a few.

“The league will be a tough competition again, where you have to deliver your best performance each week if you do not want to fall short. The league gets stronger each year and we are prepared to challenge every team we are playing to the final whistle. Playing the first five games away will be a challenge we face and we are ready now after a long preseason.” Coach Michael Janssen

Players In: Gavin Knight, Sean Cronin, Brendan Griffiths, Elies Sebbouh, Aaron McGuirk, Conor Hogan, Lewis Kerwin, Matthew Allen

Players Out: Elliot Ireland, V Da Silva, T Brown, M Centrih

Skipper: Sean Cronin

Young Player to Watch: Lazar Spasojevic

UWA-NEDLANDS FC

UWA Sports Park, Shenton Park
Coach – Richard Abrams
2022 – 11th (Won Promotion/Relegation Final)
Goal scored – 26
Goals conceded – 46

UWA-NEDLANDS FC will go into their 11th season in Division One, and last seasons finish was the worst since 2013, and they will have a new coach in the dugout this season, with former Forrestfield United coach Richard Abrams taking the reins. There has been a huge turnover of players for 2023, the coach adding some quality, the likes of Harvey Carew and Lewis Wilson from the UK, and Adam Falcone and Jordan Pokler from Gwelup to name a few. The club need to lift from last season, and Abrams, has a great record in coaching and giving the opportunity to young players, but only time will tell if he has got the depth to push for promotion.

“We will take time to settle in as the squad is newly assembled and players are still getting used to each other’s habits. If we stay fit and healthy, we should be able to surprise a few teams. The club has been very supportive and welcoming of all new players and coaches and we would like to repay the faith shown with a season of hard work on the pitch and a few points in the bag.” Coach Richard Abrams

Players In: Sam Reilly, Max Blackshaw, Daniel Iluiano (All Loans Perth SC), Cody Tana (Perth SC), Harvey Carew (Bridlington Town UK), Luke Salas (Adelaide Croatia), Luke Garas (Stirling Lions), Franco Van Zyl (Floreat Athena), Ollie Ford (Balcatta SC), Lewis Wilson (Bideford FC - UK), Jacob Turner, Axel Richardson, Max Thornley (All Forrestfield United), Jordan Pokler, Adam Falcone, George Jackson, James Russ (All Gwelup Croatia), Pascal Sedgwick (MUM), Zac Browne (Unattached), Viktor Wikheim (Sandviken IL Norway), Brendon Rintoul (Wanneroo)

Players Out: Luke Randazzo (Retired), Luke Trower (Rockingham), Sam Guthridge, Hayden Boffey, Jon Boulas, Simon Burt, Rocco Liberti / Rory Betts / Emerson Alexis / Hasan Asadi (Loanees returned back to Perth SC)

Skipper: Adam Falcone

Young Players to Watch: Cody Tana, Max Blackshaw and Daniel Iluiano

WESTERN KNIGHTS

Nash Field, Mosman Park
Coach – Adam Kostrencic
2022 – 3rd
Goal scored – 47
Goals conceded – 29

WESTERN KNIGHTS will be searching for a return to NPL football in 2023, the last time the Nash Field club was in the top flight was in 2012, and we believe they are another club who will be in the mix for promotion. They have been in the top three for the last four seasons, but haven’t made the next step, is this the year. Coach Adam Kostrencic has a strong squad, and has added some quality to it this season, the likes of Alex Kretowicz, who has returned to the club, Devon Lindemann between the sticks and Shay Donovan to name a few, and they be hard to beat. The club were a powerhouse in WA football, winning the title twice, in 1998 and 2004, and their supporters will be hoping 2023 is their season to return there, and not many would bet against them.

“With an additional opportunity for promotion this season the competition will be even tougher. There will be some very good teams competing for the title and even more teams vying to occupy the top four positions. Our new look squad has set a good foundation during preseason and we will need to display consistent form on a weekly basis in order to challenge a group of clubs who are all aiming for success in 2023.” Coach Adam Kostrencic

Players In: Alex Kretowicz (North Beach), Shay Donovan (Stirling Lions), Jack Bardsley (Carramar Shamrock), Albert Luwi (Armadale), Denzel Tshuma (Forrestfield), Diego Dupre (Balcatta), Callum Mellowship (Inglewood), Devon Lindemann (Bayswater), Daniel Markovic (Subiaco), Noel Disha (Parramatta FC), Jay Sheridan (UK), Conor Devlin (year off from football)

Players Out: Noah Shamaki, Dean Hurley, John Chalmers, Dylan White, Cameron Yorke, Matthew Henry, Reece Abrams, Sam Stone, Sebastian Medica, Matthew Giudicatti

Skipper: Ryan Cox

Young Player to Watch: Asher Hwight

footballwa.net Predictions

The State League Division Two will once again be hard fought, with a number of sides looking for promotion, with Swan United, Morley-Windmills, Carramar Shamrock Rovers, Kingsley Westside and Joondalup City being amongst the favourites, but I’m sure there will be a few more looking to push up the table. We also have a new club, with Maddington-Kalamunda White City promoted from the Amateur league last season, so it should be a great season. Footballwa.net takes a close look at the twelve clubs – in alphabetic order on how their 2023 season will pan out.

ASHFIELD

Ashfield Reserve, Ashfield
Coach – James Sammut
2022 – 9th
Goal scored – 27
Goals conceded – 43

After relegation from division one in 2021, ASHFIELD have struggled to fine form in division two, and they finished a disappointing ninth last season. They have changed coaches for 2023, with James Sammut stepping up as player/coach at Ashfield Reserve this season. Sammut has played a number of seasons in the NPL and will bring a vast amount of experience to the role, and he has added to his squad, with Conor Rae, Jake Melia and Dean Kezurer to name a few, as the club look for promotion, but do they have a strong enough squad, we will have to wait and see.

“The lads have worked hard all preseason and we are all looking forward to this weekend to be back playing competitive football. It will be a competitive season with a number of very good sides in the league who can all take points from each other. Hopefully we can consistently bring what we have been working on the training track to game days for a positive 2023 season.” Coach James Sammut

Players In: Jake Melia, Dean Kezurer, Conor Rae, Isak Hakeem, Lal Bik Cung, Gareth Hamilton, Lucas Reid, Yanis Hamadi, Yaccine Mehrfour, Nashe Kuzamba

Players Out: Seba Munoz, Lucas Munoz, Lewis Robinson, Allen Patarov, Vlad Naumovski, Issy Tan, Mark Barnard, Stephen Barnard

Skipper: Anthony Mihalj

Young Player to Watch: Kurtis Allen Nash

BALGA

Princess Road Reserve, Balga
Coach – Gerhard Janssen
2022 – 6th
Goal scored – 35
Goals conceded – 35

After promotion to the State League in 2014, it’s been a struggle for BALGA, but last season’s sixth placed finish does show some improvement. Gerhard Janssen goes into his third season as coach at the Princess Road Reserve club, and he will be looking to push further up the table in 2024. The last time the club were in Division One was in 1997, and they had a three-year stint in the Premier League in 1985 to 1987. The club are ambitious and looking to get back to those glory days, and with the additions of Nikola Zmukic, Kevin Gallo and Marko Savic, to name a few, they will surprise many.

“After a steady progression during the last two years it is time for Balga SC to attack the promotion spots. Even when teams like Morley Windmills, Curtin, Shamrock, Kingsley Westside and Swan United are strong teams our target is to end up in the top four to go for promotion. We have to start better than during the last years, because our second place on the second half of the season ladder showed that we have the potential to move forwards. We’ve added crucial quality to the squad and coaching team and improved the mentality during the preseason. So, the team can concentrate on us to achieve what the desire of the club is.” Coach Gerhard Janssen

Players In: Isaac Houghton (Canning City), Jordan Rowe (Joondalup United), Nikola Zmukic and Marko Savic (Morley Windmills), Peter Pilkadaris, Vladimir Olujic and Stephen Ntoumenopoulos (all Dianella White Eagles), Kevin Gallo (Stirling Macedonia), Nathan Scully (Wanneroo City).

Players Out: Liam Kessel and Carlos Bervenotti (retired), Martin Gorong (Melbourne), Joaquin Connelly (unclear), Newton Ndege (Job), Ben Wantee (Wanneroo City), Felix Burdzik (Sportfreunde Baumberg/Germany), John Lahai (Gwelup Croatia), Michael Berlingeri (Quinns FC)

Skipper: Bleron Mamudi

Young Player to Watch: Taban Lado

CANNING CITY

Burrendah Reserve, Willetton
Coach – Jude Peppin
2022 – 10th
Goal scored – 26
Goals conceded – 46

It was another disappointment season for CANNING CITY in 2022, and they were in the relegation mix late, but they survived, but a tenth placed finish wasn’t what they were looking for. The club were in the Premier League in 2009, under the tutelage of the late Frank Longstaff, but it’s been downhill ever since, but Jude Peppin, who goes into second year at Burrendah Reserve, will look to take the club back to Division One for the first time since 2017, so they need an improvement this season if they are to do that, but do they have the depth to challenge.

“We understand that every game is important and will look to have a much better season. Our aim is to feature in the top half of the table and we will be focussed on achieving this outcome.” Coach Jude Peppin

Players In: Sabin Shrestha, Jason Peppin, Paulo Ascenzo, Glenn Sanjay, Edin Kalakovich

Players Out: Isaac Houghton, Ethan Levitt, Shawn Peppin

Skipper: Alec Radonich

Young Player to Watch: N/A

CARRAMAR SHAMROCK ROVERS

Grandis Park, Banksia Grove
Coach – Gerry McEwan
2022 – 2nd
Goal scored – 59
Goals conceded – 26

CARRAMAR SHAMROCK ROVERS missed out on a place in Division One last season, losing to UWA Nedlands in the relegation/promotion playoff final, this after finishing runners-up in the league. Gerry McEwan, who goes into his seventh season at the Grandis Park club, will hope they can change that this season. Since the merger the club have finished in the top six every season, and will head into the new season as one of the teams to beat. The return of Nathan Diaz and Dylan McCann will be huge, while the likes of Phil O’Callaghan and Alex Connolly will also add experience, they will be in the mix for promotion.

“The night series would suggest that Morley, Swan, Kingsley and Joondalup City will be the teams to beat and I think Maddington will approach the season full of confidence and commitment, so those games will be tough.” Coach Gerry McEwan

Players In: Nathan Diaz, Dylan McCann have returned to the club, Thomas McGrath, Alex Connolly, Teo Brown, Drew Johnston, Phil O'Callaghan, Josh Reid, Nathan Hibbert, Dean Timmings, Nick Timmings.

Players Out: Jack Bardsley (Western Knights), Ross Jarman, Rhodes Boyce and Daniel Pearce (work commitments)

Skipper: Callum Trayner

Young Player to Watch: Drew Johnston.

CURTIN UNIVERSITY

Edinburgh Oval, Bentley
Coach – Troy Reid
2022 – 5th
Goal scored – 45
Goals conceded – 33

CURTIN UNIVERSITY were the big improvers last season, and their fifth-place finish was their best since 2014 when they first entered the State League. Troy Reid will go into his third season as coach at the Edinburgh Oval club, and he will look for another improved season, as the club look to reach Division One for the first time. The club have kept most of last season’s side, with addition of Jacob da Silva and Oliver Robertson, to name a few, they will be a side to watch again in 2023.

“Last season was tough missing out on the playoffs on goal difference, but I think it’s motivated the group to go one step further in 2023. We’ve kept the core of the squad together from last season which is a huge positive. It’s a tough league and teams change from year to year, but I’m confident we are ready to push for promotion.” Coach Troy Reid

Players In: Janno Saks, Jacob da Silva, Oliver Robertson, Ali Akbarzadeh

Players Out: Antony Russo, Daniel Nocciolino, Manny Singh

Skipper: Jeffrey Ledwith

Young Player to Watch: Oscar Wright – He’s been one of the biggest improvers through the off season and I think he’s ready to establish himself as one of the best attacking players in the league.

JOONDALUP CITY

Iluka Sports Complex, Iluka
Coach – Ryan Cantello and Paul Welch
2022 – 8th
Goal scored – 26
Goals conceded – 34

JOONDALUP CITY head into their fifth season in division two, and last season the finished a disappointing eighth, and they go into the season with new coaches, with Paul Welch and Ryan Cantello taking over. They will be searching for their first title in the division since 2013, and they go into the season with the same squad as last season, and the coaches believe the young side will improve this season. The club have brought in players from their academy, and its paying dividends, and after a good Night Series, they have shown they are on the right track.

“JCFC took the decision a couple of years ago that we need to build our own talent and be a strong sustainable club moving forward. That takes time and in a world that wants everything yesterday that can prove difficult, but that doesn’t dampen our desire to succeed. So, the first team this year is a young group of players with a few wise heads and they are charged with taking us to the next level. Ryan and myself are confident that if these 11 individuals perform to their ability every week, then we will move to that next level. There is a good atmosphere in the group and we need to keep that through the 2023 campaign. We will concentrate on us and what we are trying to achieve as a group and club not the opposition.” Coach Paul Welch

Players In: N/A

Players Out: N/A

Skipper: Harry Clisby

Young Player to Watch: N/A

KINGSLEY WESTSIDE

Chichester Park, Woodvale
Coach – Steven Dimitrovich
2022 – 4th
Goal scored – 54
Goals conceded – 41

It’s a huge season for KINGSLEY WESTSIDE, the club unveiling their new club rooms at Chichester Park this week. Steven Dimitrovich, who goes into seventh season at the club, and guided them into the State League after the merger, will look to build on their fourth placed finish last season. The club only entered the State League in 2020, after winning the Amateur Premier Division, and they are working hard to gain promotion, and with the addition of Hayden Lowe and Nicholas Koefler to name a few, and the return of Jayden Drummond is another huge boost for the club. After a good night series, they seem to be heading in the right direction and will be amongst the front runners come season end.

“Can’t wait for the season to come round. Been a long preseason and a bit inconsistent with game time for our squad but I believe we will be in good shape come season start. Look forward to a tight season if night series results are anything to go by and could be a whole number of teams that could win the league.” Coach Steven Dimitrovich

Players In: Nicholas Koefler, Warren Wardawu, Jack Reilly, Hayden Lowe, Finlay Cannon, Jayden Drummond returns from a year off

Players Out: Paul Rainford (Year off), Darren O’Roidan East Perth, Joe Allsopp (Morley), Connor Lynch

Skipper: Adam O’Neill

Young Player to Watch: With such a young squad this year there’s a number of young players that have stood out for them this preseason. The one player that has really come on this preseason has been Lucas Farley a no-nonsense defender who is very strong in the one on one and isn’t afraid to put his body on the line.

MADDINGTON-KALAMUNDA WHITE CITY

Maida Vale Recreation Reserve, Maida Vale
Coach – German Montealegre Quijano
2022 – 1st - Amateur Premier Division (Promoted)
Goal scored – 61
Goals conceded – 30

We have new club in the league this season with MADDINGTON-KALAMUNDA WHITE CITY promoted to the State League, after winning the Amateur Premier Division last season. They have merged with Kalamunda SC this season and coach German Montealegre Quijano, who guided the club back to Saturday football after a dramatic final day of the season, continues in his role, and despite a disappointing night series, they are looking to make an impact. They have kept most of last season’s squad, but have added keeper Kristian Usedo and Alexander Fazekas from Queens Park, plus a couple of imports, Nicolas Roca and Ismael Romer, from Colombia and Argentina respectively. They will be very strong at home, with their passionate supporters behind them, and they will be competitive in their first season back in Saturday football.

“Above all, we are looking forward to playing in the State League and welcoming teams to our new home in Kalamunda. Our team is relatively unchanged from last year, with our core group of players remaining at the club and I think that will be our strength. Our start to the league is very tough with our first four fixtures coming against the favourites in the competition, and our results here will either set us up to have a stable season or see us scrambling to avoid being stuck in a relegation scrap. But we have worked hard to get into the State League Two and expect to be competitive in our first season. Our aim is to familiarise ourselves with the competition and use the experience to be in a position where we can challenge for promotion in the coming years.” Petar Mrdja

Players In: Victor Kavassaki (Brozzy), Christian Zuluago (Brozzy), Kristian Usedo (Queens Park), Alexander Fazekas (Queens Park), Nicolas Roca (Colombia), Ismael Romer (Argentina)

Players Out: Javier Pineres (North Perth United), Costa Ramos (Travelling), Cesar Ozorco (Retirement but will remain at club as assistant coach), Dragan Milankovic (FK Zeleznik),

Skipper: Jose Zuniga

Young Player to Watch: Farruh Mavlonov – scored a hat trick in their last game of the season to win the league and started the season well with a cracking goal in the night series in their win against Joondalup.

MORLEY-WINDMILLS

Wotten Reserve, Embleton
Coach – Marc Anthony
2022 – 7th
Goal scored – 43
Goals conceded – 42

It was another disappointing season for MORLEY-WINDMILLS, their seventh placed finish saw them part company with their coaches, and they gave brought in Marc Anthony and Cathal Lennon from Gosnells City. The club won the Premier League in 1961 and 1973, but the Wotton Park supporters have been starved of success in recent seasons, and the club have high expectations this season and they gave added Brad MacDonald, Conor Kavanagh and Kevin Ashwood to name a few, and we believe they will be there or there about come seasons end.

“A very tough competitive league as I know from last year and we hope we have built a squad too be competitive and be up there come the end of the season,” Coach Marc Anthony

Players In: Conor Kavanagh, Ish Dawson, Duncan Lennon-Black- Paul McCormack, Alan Carroll, Adam Buckley, Joe Allsopp, Brad MacDonald, Christian Vest, Boas Mtwale, Kevin Ashwood, Obeida Yaser, Kapinga Kiza, Salvador Chavez, Darren Francis, Jordan Nikolajavic

Players Out: N/A

Skipper: Alan Carroll

Young Player to Watch: Christian Vest who they signed from Perth SC, is a very direct skilful player with an attitude to match.

QUINNS FC

Gumblossom Park, Quinns Rock
Coach – Cameron Aitchison
2022 – 12th Division One (Relegated)
Goal scored – 28
Goals conceded – 66

QUINNS FC were relegated from Division One last season, and they will be looking bounce back in 2023. It was a dramatic fall down the table, this after finishing third in 2021, and Cameron Aitchison will continue to coach the Gumblossom Park side this season. The club were only formed in 2009, and won the Division Two title in 2929, and with addition of Harry Edwards and Lukas De Lima to name a few, they will be looking to add to that success this season, and after a big win in the Australia Cup last weekend things are looking good.

“We felt it was important to try and revamp the squad and entire senior set up to bring some freshness for the upcoming season. But we are excited ahead of the new season, and looking forward to what we expect will be a challenging year.” Coach Cameron Aitchison

Players In: Harry Edwards, Lukas De Lima, Will Woodall

Players Out: Jackson Dongray, MIchael Currie

Skipper: Robbie McNeil – He joined the club late last year and his leadership qualities both on and off the pitch will be vital for them in the upcoming season.

Young Player to Watch: Having a relatively young first team squad they are excited to see how all our boys develop this year. They have high hopes for quite a few, so, it would be difficult and probably a bit unfair to single out just one.

SWAN UNITED

Swan Italian Club, Francis Street, Middle Swan
Coach – Niall Hughes and Colin Morgan
2022 – 3rd
Goal scored – 47
Goals conceded – 32

After relegation in 2021, SWAN UNITED failed to make an immediate return last season, losing in the playoffs after a third placed finish. With Dan Evans moving on, the club has appointment joint coaches, with Colin Morgan, and former player Niall Hughes guiding the club for 2023. The Francis Street club have struggled to get back to the good old days when they played in the top flight of WA football, the last time was in 2010, so they will look to start the return with a solid season. After a good night series and Australia cup result last week, they are looking good and with addition of Rhys Loxley and Ben Parry, to name a few, they will be amongst the leaders this season.

“After finishing third last season and missing out on promotion through the play offs, the whole group is looking to improve on that. We have managed to keep most of the squad together and promoted from within. Plus added some extra bits of quality to the squad, which we think will lift us. It will be another tough season, as there are plenty of sides that could be challenging at the top for promotion but we have to aim high and that’s what the entire group is doing.” Coach Niall Hughes

Players In: Ben Parry, Rhys Loxley, Jacob Stubberfield.

Players Out: Nick Stone, Ismael Bangura, Ben Greaves, Lucas Allender

Skipper: - Michael Yarker

Young Player to Watch: Nick Burmej - Central Midfielder looking to get more regular first team minutes and to make a much bigger impact this season.

WANNEROO CITY

Kingsway Reserve, Landsdale
Coach – Howard Tweats
2022 – 11th
Goal scored – 38
Goals conceded – 56

WANNEROO CITY will look for a huge improvement on 2022, after they finished eleventh, which just saw them just miss out on relegation to Sunday football. Howard Tweats will go into his second season at Wanneroo Reserve, and he has backed his side to bounce back in 2023, and he has added some experienced to help that, with Seb Munoz and Ben Wantee, to name a few coming into the club. The club were in the Premier League for two seasons in 2006-2007, and won the Division One title in 2013, but it’s been downhill since then, and they hope to turn the corner in 2023, but it could be a long season for them.

“After a disappointing campaign last term, the emphasis is on cementing our position in the State League, minimum expectation being competitive and consistent in every game as it presents with the view to concentrating on what’s happening above us and not below.” Coach Howard Tweats

Players In: Seb Munoz, Ben Wantee, Samson Araya, Montee Benjamin, Juma Awaka, Ethan Mijat, Ethan Gravett

Players Out: Will Woodhall, Nathan Scully, Grant Mowatt, Lucas Reid, Lucas White

Skipper: Aaron Louttit

Young Players to Watch: They have high hopes for Kayleb Money-Elder and Ethan Mijat

footballwa.net Predictions

Amateur League First Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Port Kennedy
 2 Maccabi
 3 Kingsley Westside Amateurs
 4 Olympic Kingsway Amateurs
 5 Quinns FC Amateurs
 6 Hamersley Rovers
 7 Southern Spirit
 8 Stirling Macedonia
 9 Canning City Amateurs
10 Stirling Panthers
11 Ellenbrook United
12 Queens Park

Amateur League Second Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Perth AFC
 2 Fremantle City Amateurs
 3 Ballajura AFC
 4 Cracovia
 5 Perth Hills United
 6 Curtin University Amateurs
 7 Westnam United
 8 Baldivis
 9 Bassendean Caledonian Amateurs
10 Mandurah City
11 Belmont Villa
12 Tigris FC

Amateur League Third Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Alkimos
 2 Joondanna Blues
 3 Forrestfield United Amateurs
 4 Perth Royals
 5 La Fiamma
 6 Northern City
 7 Woodvale
 8 Murdoch University Melville Amateurs
 9 Subiaco AFC Amateurs
10 Spearwood Dalmatinac
11 UWA-Nedlands FC Amateurs
12 Noranda City

Amateur League Fourth Division

Final Table Prediction

 1 Perth Saints
 2 Bayswater City City Amateurs
 3 Mindarie
 4 Sporting Warriors
 5 Wanneroo City Amateurs
 6 Murdoch University Melville Amateurs
 7 Forrestfield United Amateurs "B"
 8 Swan Valley
 9 Wembley Downs "B"
10 Sutherlands Park

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This page was last updated on the 9th April, 2023