NEKA VIDE DA NAS IMA

From the Croatian Soccer Federation and all it's members, we are hoping a praying that the flood crisis ends very quickly and especially to our dear members Brisbane Croatia/Rocklea United so that they may be able to get back on their feet and continue providing their community with many more years of terrific service. Our thoughts go out to those who have lost so much. In typical Croatian response, fundraising efforts are beginning to take shape and Gospic Bears deserve a huge thanks for initiating that the proceeds of the Australia Day Disco on Fri 28th Jan at Bond Bar and Lounge, Bond St, Melb will go towards aiding our brothers and sisters in Brisbane, see the Gospic Bears facebook site for details. Likewise AHD Geelong is hosting a footy match between over 30s vs under 30s on Sunday 30th Jan from 1pm at Bakers Oval, Shannon Ave Geelong West followed by drinks at the Geelong Dom where we will be raising funds for the cause, see www.northgeelongsc.com.au for details. Please spread the word to all you know and help by attending and getting involved, so we can help our dear friends in Brisbane return their lives to normal as quickly as possible.

Aroha nui New Zealand

What an amazing weekend filled with fun, football and festivities.

The memories of this tournament will last an eternity for many reasons, none more so than being the first time in Auckland.

Thursday night and we're off to a flyer, the teams coming in to register their teams, acquaintances getting renewed and new bonds being created. Our hosts welcomed us in typical Croatian style with great food and good company. We got to witness a controversial start to the tournament with St Albans Dinamo going down to Auckland Croatia and in the process losing three players to red cards and Auckland receiving one send off. The night was capped off with lots of singing and partying and we hadn't even got to the official opening.

Friday morning and the rain kicked in, it didn't wash away our lively spirits though. Our hosts put on a Maori welcoming display followed by our dignitaries including club president Ivan Pervan, Ambassador of Croatia Vicencije Biuk and the ever popular President of the Croatian Soccer Federation Ivan Vuletic, opening the 36 th Annual Croatian Soccer Tournament of Australia and New Zealand. Soon afterwards the action began on the pitch. With 31 teams who travelled far and wide there was a lot to get through. Through the day there were plenty of options with 6 grounds hosting matches, winery tours and the options to do a little sightseeing too. Before long it was the evening which brought on the Friday night disco. What a night it was. Major Minor who rock the tournament every year didn't disappoint with their rocking and spirit stirring song choices, they pumped them out as only they know how. Hundreds of people invading the dancefloor, even dancing on tables to get the best vantage point. St Albans and Gwelup were busy belting out tunes of their own during the pauses which delighted many traditionalists. The night came to an end but no one wanted to go it was a sign of things to come.

Saturday and we are wrapping up the final group matches before finals begin. Tournament power houses like Adelaide Croatia and St Albans Dinamo began to find form, Hurstville were surprising a few, but it was Melbourne Knights who hold firm and marched into the final along with Adelaide. In Div 2 Vukovar once again powered into the final but there were some new comers to the form plate and Gospic/Mostar combined team were unlucky not to progress to the semi finals even though they didn't lose a game. Auckland Reserves also had a strong hitout but it was Bosna Reserves who were pipped up against Vukovar in the final. In the Womens groups the top 4 teams of Auckland Croatia, Central United Croatia, Canberra and North Geelong Croatia stood out and competed in the semi finals with North Geelong and Canberra progressing to the final.

Miss Croatia Gala night on Saturday night at the Auckland SkyCity Casino. Set in a grand location that was both inviting and awesome. Almost 1000 people were there to witness another massive event. It seems that this event just gets better every year. Major Minor were at it again with their party tracks getting us on our feet. However it was the Miss Croatia girls we came to see and my how they were beautiful. 12 women giving the judges a difficult choice to make. They spent the day together including a winery tour and a luncheon followed by interviews. In the evening they paraded in their beautiful gowns by Sabatini Design followed by their team colours. The judges met and the winner was announced Miss Adelaide Croatia Monica Maric. Runner Up Maja Pecirep from Gwelup and Miss Personality Angy Matesic.

Sunday finals day

Women – North Geelong Croatia 2 v Canberra Croatia 0

The first 10 mins could best be described as cagey and dour. Neither team really causing the other any reason for concern. However 5 mins later the Warriors stepping it up a notch had Canberra back pedaling with attack after attack and they capitalised to give themselves a halftime lead, sensing the tired legs of Canberra were kicking in. At halftime you have never seen such calm people, The Warriors knew they were in the box seat, and kept the ball moving and let Canberra chase which worked to their favour. Although a couple of tense moments from counter attacks snuck in as well as the Warriors own tired legs, they didn't give up and 5 mins from the end sealed the win to jump to a 2 nil lead. Final whistle blew with jubilation and a little relief. After being the bridesmaid the last few times North Geelong had done it and won the title back.

Div 2 Men – Vukovar 0 v Bosna Reserves 2

Bosna were on the front foot from the outset, Vukovar seemingly with fatigue kicking in were gallantly trying but couldn't find the gear needed to keep up with the Bosna boys. Although Vukovar had their opportunities it was Bosna who were able to capitalize on their chances. The final few minutes saw Bosna tire but not enough to give Vukovar a sniff and they took out the Div 2 title.

Div 1 Men – Melbourne Knights 2 v Adelaide Croatia 1

A tight and entertaining match between two very good teams. The Knights had their fair share of chance early and it seemed as if they let Adelaide off the hook a few times as Adelaide built in confidence, but the Knights stuck firm and went one up halfway through the first half. Adelaide didn't relent though and were soon afterwards able to level the scores. Half time at 1 -1 it would come down to fitness. Melbourne Knights came out stronger and showed that they were here for the win and rolled on to notch up a second half way through the 2 nd half. They had several other opportunities as Adelaide's fitness waivered but it was enough to give them the title. They were the best team in the group matches and prove their finals appearance was warranted with a good win.

Congratulations also to St Albans Dinamo for taking out he Team Spirit Shield for being the club who best epitomises the tournaments foundations of being competitive on the park and socializing and attending all the functions off the park. They built on their already impressive image for other clubs to take note.

Sunday night recovery party and you would have been excused for thinking it was Friday, the numbers were out again as teams were ready to celebrate their wins or commiserate their losses, mostly I believe is that they were glad to be partying with new and old friends and giving each other a send off to remind each other it's only 51 weeks until we do it all again. Major Minor rocked the walls down again and as per Friday no one was ready to leave, but planes were ready to take off and reality had set in. It was a terrific occasion with so much to admire. Well Done Auckland on being a great host, we look forward to seeing you all in Sydney for 2011 when King Tomislav hosts the 37 th Annual Croatian Soccer Tournament of Australia and New Zealand.

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THE TIME HAS COME

The groups and fixtures are out for the 36th Annual Croatian Soccer Tournament. The committee of the Croatian Soccer Federation is delighted that 31 teams will be competing in this historic event which is being played off Australian shores for the first time. There have been some last minute changes due to teams who were unable to attend and although they all desperately wanted to be a part of it they just weren't able to get there in this instance, which is understandable as it is a little harder to plan when passports are involved. The tournament's travel partner and Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and N.Z major sponsor SKY AIR SERVICES has done a remarkable job in helping us all get to Auckland and we now look forward to our hosts hospitality. Auckland Croatia and the Croatian Community are prepared and ready and waiting for us. There will be plenty of fun and games on and off the field and it all starts with a Thursday night match at 8.30pm at the Croatian Cultural Society between hosts Auckland Croatia and newly promoted Champions of Division 1 Victoria, St Albans DInamo.

Congratulations to Melbourne Tornado who are celebrating 10 years. Melbourne Tornado are always terrific contributors to the eventful weekend that is the tournament, every year. We wish all the teams the very best as well as the Miss Croatia Contestants in their quest for the coveted Miss Croatia Australia Crown. We hope you all have a happy and safe journey and a memorable tournament. Don't forget to get your hands on a Tournament T-shirt. The popular ‘GLEDAJ KOL'KO NAS IMA shirts are back again and will be available on Thurs night through to Saturday afternoon from the committee of the Croatian Soccer Federation of Aus and N.Z. LET THE GAMES BEGIN.

CLICK ON ANY OF THE FOLLOWING FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Auckland Soccer Tournament Program	Croatia Times Travel New Zealand Tours	Host Club Contact Details
2010 Auckland Groups and Fixtures	RULES
Click to view the 'Gledaj kolk'ko nas ima' T-shirts

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LESS THAN TWO WEEKS TO GO UNTIL THE BIGGEST CROATIAN EVENT ON THE CONTINENT

Our Host Auckland Croatia is eagerly awaiting our arrival to the first ever tournament hosted off Australian shores. They are busily finalizing all the final bits and pieces and assure us that we will enjoy ourselves as their guests. The playing surfaces are in top nick and those waiting on the draw will see the details next week.  The tournament begins with a night match on Thursday night 30th Sept so make sure you get to the club by 5pm and register your teams, enjoy a meal and sit back and let the games begin. Friday morning is the traditional opening ceremony followed by matches. For those interested in things off the pitch there is a ladies luncheon at a nearby winery as well as some terrific tours and day trips being offered at special rates for the occasion. Attached is some info for all including addresses and details of the grounds being used for the matches. For those who have been waiting, the 'GLEDAJ KOLK'KO NAS IMA' T-Shirts are back. If you missed out last time this is your chance to get a hold of one.  The come is sizes from Kids 8 through to Adult 3XL, including ladies sizes and some long sleeve ones too. Again they will be available in black and white.

We look forward to seeing you all very soon, I especially can't wait for the sight at the airport where masses of Aussie Croats depart together, the Trans Tasman will never be the same again.

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a long time supporter and contributor to the Croatian Community especially the soccer clubs has thrown their support behind Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and New Zealand 36th Annual Tournament in New Zealand. Member clubs will benefit not only with the impeccable service and support that SkyAir Services provide but they will also receive special rates for their team's travel and accommodation needs. No doubt your club or a club you know of has benefitted from SkyAir Services providing prizes for Miss Coratia raffles and the like and we at Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and New Zealand are also able to say we have the kind support of SkyAir Services and passing on the benefit to the Member Clubs. SkyAir have the details regarding the tournament dates so don't hesitate, please call SkyAir on 03 9699 9355 or 02 9672 1168, alternatively you can visit their website on www.skyair.biz. If you require more details locally within New Zealand, please feel free to visit www.croatianclub.co.nz or email secretary@croatianclub.co.nz to get more details of the ground, its location and closest amenities. Likewise I'm sure our friends over the Tasman would like to hear from you and you can call 0011 64 09 836 6550 and ask for Branko Torbarina or Nik Posa.

We wish everyone well for the 2010 season and look forward to the many responses of registration coming up in April. If indication of the amount of pre booked travel is anything to go by then we feel this will be yet another tournament success story that we can all be proud of.

Thank you, Savez.

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AUCKLAND ......... 84 DAYS TO GO!

As the annual Croatian Soccer Tournament draws closer, the Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and New Zealand are ecstatic with the number of teams and Miss Croatia Australia & New Zealand entrants registered so far.

Stela Krivicic, Secretary of the Croatian Soccer Federation announced this week that 11 clubs have registered an entrant to vie for the title of Miss Croatia Australia & New Zealand 2010. “It is great to see this prestigious event have 11 entrants this year. The competition seems to be getting bigger and bigger each year. This is not a “beauty pageant” as such, but a competition which showcases young active Croatian girls in our community. We are looking for an outgoing confident girl who will be able to represent our community not only in our local community but in the wider Australian and New Zealand community at various functions and events,” stated Stela Krivicic.

MISS CROATIA AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND ENTRANTS 2010

St Albans Dinamo Croatia Adelaide North Geelong Auckland Croatia

Dandenong City Gold Coast Gospic Bears Zagreb Hurtsville

King Tomislav Brisbane Croatia Gwelup Croatia

Registration for this year's Croatian Soccer Tournament closes on July 31 st and many clubs have already registered to participate in the tournament. “With only a few weeks left to register, we have a record number of teams gearing up for the soccer tournament,' said an excited Stela Krivicic. “Eighteen teams are on the register, with many of the bigger clubs participating (including Melbourne Knights and Croatia Deakin First Teams). With still a number of clubs who participate each year yet to register, it is important that clubs register as soon as possible, as it allows the Savez and the Host Club enough time to not only complete fixtures but also to work out the logistics for the actual tournament.”

MALE TEAMS

FEMALE TEAMS

With less than three months remaining until the beginning of this historic tournament, excitement is certainly building for the very first Tournament to be held in New Zealand. According to those close to organisers and with relatives or friends in New Zealand, this year's festivities will have all the best Croatians and in this case, Kiwis have to offer. It truly looks like one not to be missed.

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Auckland Croatia Official Logo of 36th Annual Croatian Soccer Tournament of Australia and New Zealand.

A well thought of yet simple design depicting the location, the sport and our heritage. Congratulations to the team in New Zealand on their progress so far. All aspects are under control and Auckland awaits the Aussie assault with open arms. Remember to register your teams and Miss Croatia entrants ASAP. If you have queries relating to your flights and travel remember to contact SkyAir Services the official travel partner of the Annual Croatian Soccer tournament. Hope your seasons are going well and may the best team win and may the best team be yours.

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What do you get when you mix together an incredible work ethic, a selfless team, a terrific model and a committed Croatian community? An unbelievable Croatian Soccer Tournament.

The Croatian spirit was truly alive and evident over the tournament weekend as the Adelaide Croatia Soccer Club, the Croatian Sports Centre and Adelaide Croatia Vukovi united to host a well organised and fantastic Croatian soccer tournament. It was apparent that an entire Croatian community; young and old, worked together to make the tournament a huge success on and off the field. The tournament committee, led by John Stevanja and closely supported by Ivica Jurkovic, President of Adelaide Croatia Soccer Club, Zeljko Kuzman, and President of the Croatian Sports Centre, Branko Suica, Gordana Smoljan and Cynthia Smoljan should be commended on a well prepared and organised tournament. Many clubs and supporters have labeled the tournament as the “best ever”.

The Croatian Soccer Federation's Code of Behaviour was introduced for the first time this year and were proud that clubs and supporters alike were on their best behaviour at all times, but still had lots of fun throughout the tournament. A special mention and congratulations must go to Wednesday Knights, the first recipients of the Team Spirit Award. The award, which all clubs and the Croatian Soccer Federation Board of Directors voted on a team who displayed team spirit on and off the field, sportsmanship and friendship during the tournament. After this weekend all teams proved that they too are true recipients of the Croatian Team Spirit Award.

2010 takes the Croatian tournament across the ocean for the first time ever to our sister club Auckland Croatia . We look forward to working closely with Auckland Croatia over the next year. The tournament directors have ensured us that all the successful and proven aspects of previous tournaments will be featured, but will be enhanced with unique local flavours!

Auckland Croatia 2010…. it's time!

The Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and New Zealand held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Friday October 2nd 2009 at the Adelaide Croatian Soccer Tournament.

The current Board of Directors were re-elected unanimously by the member clubs present for another twelve months. The Croatian Soccer Federation (CSF) will be once again be led by President Ivan Vuletic, Vice President Jure Marinac and Secretary Stela Krivicic. Josip Zilic, Alan Pecotic, Tony Dorotic and Steven Skornjak will continue to make up the rest of the team.

The Board of Directors shared good news with members, life member Sydney United had finally paid off their outstanding debts from the 2006 Croatian soccer tournament. The issue of Canberra Deakin's inappropriate behaviour which arose at the Geelong tournament was discussed at length however still remains unresolved. The CSF implemented a new Code of Behaviour for teams and supporters at this year's tournament to try and eliminate unacceptable behaviour. The Code of Behaviour was warmly welcomed and taken on board by all and for the first in a very long time the tournament had a friendly, family atmosphere to it. The Team Spirit which was also introduced this year added another element to the ‘positive play' aspect we have being trying to achieve at tournaments.

Another item on the agenda was the hosting of future soccer tournaments. After a lengthy discussion took place, it was decided that a two year notification of hosting a tournament would be allowed. This would encourage clubs to announce their intentions of hosting a tournament in advance if they wish to, making other member clubs aware of forthcoming bids.

It is extremely important that all CSF members attend our AGM so that they are aware of any changes which are made during the year, decisions that made and of course to voice their opinions and concerns. The CSF encourages our members to be more involved in the decision making process of the CSF, however clubs need to attend meetings so that we can hear their voices. To continue to listen to not only our members, but our supporters as well, our website www.auscrosoccer.com.au will shortly feature a new feedback section where comments, suggestions etc can be entered in regards to the soccer tournaments. Our members have also asked us for continuous updates and our website will feature this as well.

The selection of who will hot the 2010 tournament was a perfect example of how the CSF listens to its members. Members who attended the AGM voted where they would like the tournament to be held next year, after listening to Prospect Knights, King Tomislav and Auckland Croatia 's bids. It was also important to us to find out where our supporters would like the next tournament and why. It was a very difficult decision for us, as each bid was worthy of holding next year's tournament. This tournament marks a special occasion, as it will be the first time the tournament heads overseas. We have already started to work with Auckland Croatia and will keep our members and supporters updated via our website.

Congratulations to Div 1 Champions Adelaide Croatia, Div 2 Champions Auckland Croatia, Womens Champions North Fremantle, Team Spirit Winners Wednesday Knights and Miss Croatia Australia Marina Kasalo – St Albans Dinamo, Miss Croatia Australia Runner up Marina Sekulic - Brisbane Croatia and Miss Congeniality Angela Lovrinov Adelaide Croatia. A heartfelt thank you to the warm and inviting hospitality of the Adelaide Croatian Community especially the Croatian Sports Centre and the Adelaide Croatia Soccer Club. You have achieved a great result and everyone we dealt with was delighted with the way you ran the tournament and the way you welcomed them to your home. A big thank you to all the clubs who attended and participated in the spirit of the game we hope you continue to be terrific ambassadors of your clubs and communities as well as proud members of the Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and N.Z. For results from matches please click on the results 2009 link to show you the scores throughout the weekend.

Lastly not only would we like to thank our members, officials and supporters who support the biggest Croatian event of the year but also the wider Croatian Community, especially organisations such as AHD Geelong, the Croatian Sports Centre Adelaide, AHD Melbourne, the Cro Express Newspaper, and Vjesnik newspapers who without any hesitation support us. We feel honoured and privileged that our member base not only includes soccer clubs from around Australia and New Zealand, but many organisations from around the country.

Thank you, Savez.

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29/09/09 - Thank you all for your patience, the time has finally come to release the fixtures for the 2009 Croatian Soccer Tournament of Australia and N.Z.

All the teams have registered and we have a total of 39 officially registered teams. Our host Adelaide Croatia is eagerly awaiting our arrival and from all reports we are in for a treat. Our hosts have gone to great lengths to include everyone including the kids and the ladies with appropriate functions for all. The Division 1 Groups this year include Dandenong City, Gwelup Croatia, Adelaide Croatia and St Albans Dinamo in one group and North Geelong Croatia, Hurstville Zagreb, O'Connor Knights and Fremantle Croatia in the other group. In a treat fro soccer enthusiasts it all begins on a Thursday night this year. Under 13s will start the night off at 6pm followed by Division 2 action between Adelaide Croatia Vukovi vs Gwelup Croatia 2nds and then followed by Adelaide Croatia vs Gwelup Croatia. Another initiative this year is the Team Spirit trophy, this is to encourage clubs to enjoy and participate in everything to do with the tournament. The Croatian Soccer Federation of Aus and N.Z will be looking for teams who lead by example and rewarding them with the Inaugural Team Spirit Cup.

Remember to come along to the Croatian Sports Centre on Thursday, Adelaide Croatia and the Croatian Sports Centre will be putting on a beautiful food and beverage service throughout the day and night, come along with your team and reacquaint yourself with some old friends whilst registering your team and finalising your accounts.

We look forward to seeing you in Adelaide.

Thank you, The Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and New Zealand.

CLICK TO VIEW the fixtures for the 2009 Croatian Soccer Tournament of Australia and N.Z.

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PRESS RELEASE 

Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia & New Zealand

Gledaj Kol'ko Nas Ima! 

The Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia & New Zealand has released their first t-shirt which will be sold during the Adelaide Croatian Soccer Tournament in October this year.

The idea came into fruition after a discussion took place during a Board Meeting of Directors discussing how many members the Croatian Soccer Federation has and the fact that each year the tournament just gets bigger and better.

Jure Marinac, Vice President of the Croatian Soccer Federation suggested that we acknowledge our members, especially as a majority of them travel each year, across Australia (paying for their own expenses) to be apart of the biggest event on the Australian Croatian calendar. Jure came up with the idea of the t-shirt and adding the ever popular phrase, gledaj kol'ko nas ima, just seem to make sense!

We must acknowledge Dane Dugandzic for the fantastic design, and for putting up with us! Dane has worked tirelessly over the last few months with the Croatian Soccer Federation on a voluntary basis!

The t-shirt shows the logos of most of our members, unfortunately the member logos which are missing were not supplied by the clubs. The 74 on the front of the t-shirt signifies the first year the Croatian Soccer Tournament was held (1974) and the AHD Melbourne logo on the sleeve signifies the Home of the Savez.

A limited number of men's, ladies and children's t-shirts will be sold during the Adelaide Croatian Soccer Tournament by the beautiful Miss Croatia Australia Entrants, the cost of the tshirts are $35 for adults and $30 for children sizes.

If you would like to pre-order a t-shirt please contact:

Jure Marinac 0417 300 320 jure@nrgprojects.com.au

Stela Krivicic 0416 050 304 stela.krivicic@cbre.com.au

CLICK HERE to view the designs.

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35th AUSTRALIAN CROATIAN SOCCER TOURNAMENT "ADELAIDE 2009"

There are only 6 weeks to go and the excitement is building and teams are preparing for the 35th AUSTRALIAN CROATIAN SOCCER TOURNAMENT in ADELAIDE.

The hosts will have their work cut out for them as we are expecting 42 teams to compete in this year's event. The reigning champions St Albans Dinamo have registered their first and reserve teams as well as an Under 13s team, which will play in a mini Croatian Soccer Tournament involving other Croatian Under 13 teams. The Board of Directors now has the demanding task of grouping the teams into Division 1 and Division 2 as well as the ever-growing female teams.

In recent weeks we have had many enquiries in regards to “social / pub” teams entering the Croatian Soccer Tournaments. At the Croatian Soccer Federation's Annual General Meeting which was held in Perth in 2007, members voted that a stop be put in place for “pub / social” teams to register in the annual Croatian Soccer Tournament. Members felt that the quality of clubs should override the quantity of teams registered to play, and that it was important that we put the focus back onto quality Croatian soccer being played at Croatian Soccer tournaments. Since the Perth Croatian Soccer Tournament, the Croatian Soccer Federation has not accepted any “pub / social” teams.

New teams can register to become members of the Croatian Soccer Federation and therefore participate in Croatian Soccer tournaments. In order for new Croatian backed Clubs currently playing in a league in their state / territory to become a member of the Croatian Soccer Federation, clubs will need to comply with the rules surrounding membership application which are outlined in our Constitution. New teams can only compete as an “Applicant” Member and not a full member.

Accordingly, the Croatian Soccer Federation will establish the terms and conditions upon which it elects to allow new teams to compete in the Tournament as an "Applicant" Member, (as opposed to a Full Member). Part of the criteria of securing membership includes details such as player lists, registration numbers, the league the club is currently playing in, along with two Croatian Soccer Federation's Full Members signing a document stating that they are affiliated with their Club. There are fees (yearly membership and player insurance) also involved in the application.

On another note, registration for hosting the 2010 Croatian Soccer Tournament is open. Clubs have the opportunity to host a Croatian Soccer Tournament by completing an application form and submitting it to the Secretary of the Croatian Soccer Federation. Once submitted, clubs will be notified in relation to their application. For further information on hosting a Croatian Soccer Tournament, please contact the secretary of the Croatian Soccer Federation, Stela Krivicic on 0416 050 304 or email Stela.Krivicic@cbre.com.au

Regards,

Directors
Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia and New Zealand.

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34th AUSTRALIAN CROATIAN SOCCER TOURNAMENT "GEELONG 2008" PREVIEW

Josip Loncaric (courtesy of www.croatianherald.com)

2 OCT 08 - THIS YEAR'S edition of the annual Australian Croatian Soccer Tournament, which will be held in Geelong this weekend, promises to create some of the most mouthwatering contests between some of the countries greatest Croatian backed clubs.

Divided into two divisions for Men and one Women's division, the North Geelong Warriors - in conjunction with the governing body, the Croatian Soccer Association of Australia and New Zealand - have managed to create a competition that should appeal to all levels of footballers and supporters alike.
In the Division One pool, two teams of five teams will face-off in a round robin format, from which two teams will move into the semi finals.

Group A seems the most even of all groups, with South Australian side Adelaide Croatia, ACT champions Canberra Deakin, host side North Geelong Warriors and fellow Victorian sides St. Albans Saints and the Melbourne Knights Under 21s.
The junior Knights were a last minute replacement for the understrength Glenorchy Knights who are travelling to the mainland on an end of season trip and have declined the offer to play in the cut-throat Division One competition.

This will allow some of the Melbourne Knights' talented crop of up and coming youngsters some valuable playing experience against quality opposition and the chance to play against fully grown men, something which is sure to aid their development.

On the other side of the draw, last year's beaten finalists Western Australia's Fremantle Croatia, Victorian outfit Hajduk Chelsea, superpower Melbourne Knights, the ACT's O'Connor Knights and Sydney side Zagreb Hurstville will all be vying for a place in the semi finals of Group B.

Group A seems a difficult one to predict, with all five of the sides capable of progressing to the next round. Rumours persisting that Adelaide Croatia and Canberra Deakin will both be fielding weakened side's means that hosts North Geelong and fellow Victorians St. Albans Dinamo look the most likely to progress, but watch out for the Glenorchy Knights as a potential dark horse for the tournament.

Group B seems much more straightforward, with the Melbourne Knights clear favourites to not only top their group, but also to win the tournament. The disappointment of losing the Victorian Premier League Grand Final will no doubt give the Knights the impetus to add a trophy to their
2008 season.
Of the remaining sides, it is expected that the O'Connor Knights and Zagreb Hurstville will be competitive, whilst Chelsea Hajduk remain a threat. Fremantle Croatia are somewhat of an unknown quantity and may surprise the other side's in the group.

Whichever way you look at it, the tournament will be full of surprises, fierce contests and emerging stars.

Let the games begin!

Sydney United pulls out of this year's Croatian tournament in Geelong

SYDNEY (January 28, 2008) - Sydney United's Board of Directors have made the unceremoniously premature decision to not participate in this year's Australian Croatian Soccer Tournament, which will be held on the first weekend in October in Geelong .

The tournament hosts, North Geelong Croatia (Warriors), last week sent out a welcoming email letter to all member clubs of the Croatian Soccer Federation of Australia notifying them of the date of the tournament and the intentions of the organising committee to keep the clubs posted of the latest news concerning the tournament.

Within hours, North received a reply from United advising the hosts that the one time National Soccer League giants would not be able to attend the 34th staging of the annual tournament later this year.

In the short letter, United wished North all the success in the tournament and thanked the 2008 hosts for the invitation.

It's believed the seemingly premature decision to decline the invitation is due to United's perceived on-going financial problems.

The main reason for United not sending a team to last year's inaugural Croatian World Club Championships in Zagreb , even though it had qualified by virtue of its triumph at the 2006 Australian Croatian Soccer Tournament in Sydney , was due to financial difficulties.

It is a known fact that the Edensor Park club has struggled ever since its light towers were vandalised by local Serb (Bonnyrigg White Eagles) supporters causing thousands of dollars of damage.

United's coffers weren't aided by the team's poor on-field performances last season, which - combined with several instances of unseasonally monsoonal weather conditions - resulted in attendances at some games barely reaching 300 patrons.