Two lower league Croatian community backed football clubs from Victoria and NSW last weekend clinched promotion to the higher grades, with just a few rounds remaining in their respective seasons.
North Geelong Warriors secured promotion to next season’s second tier Victorian Premier League 1 division, after overcoming a resilient Nunawading City 2-1 in a hard fought contest at Elcho Park last Saturday night.
The Geelong side, which was playing in the NPL Victoria division two years ago, suffered back to back relegations but have managed to return to VPL1 after just one season in the third tier competition
First year Warriors’ president Tom Pausak said it was time for everyone at the club to celebrate the amazing achievement.
“What a season it’s been. After all the hard work, the challenges, and the highs and lows – we’ve finally done it,” exclaimed an excited Pausak.
“Achieving promotion this year means everything to our club!” he added.
According to Pausak, the promotion was a reward for the tireless effort of the players, coaches and many volunteers at the club.
“Especially to our board, who’ve worked behind the scenes day in and day out to keep this club moving forward, their commitment and sacrifice often go unseen,” said Pausak.
“But this moment belongs to the entire Warriors family. This journey has tested us, inspired us, and brought us closer together.
“It’s been a wild ride, but one we’ll never forget – and now, we can proudly say: we’re back where we belong,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, north of the Murray, Hurstville Zagreb FC was crowned 2025 Football NSW League Two Men’s Premiers following Round 25 of the competition.
Zagreb secured the First Grade Premiership following a hard fought 2-1 victory over the Hawkesbury City Hawks.
Club President John Gagro was ecstatic during the week, releasing an official press statement on the club’s social media platforms.
“This is more than just a football moment, it’s a reminder of the pride, passion and connection that bring us all together,” stated Gagro.
“Being crowned FNSW League Two Premiers is more than just a trophy or a title, it’s the reward for years of hard work, sacrifice and an unshakable belief in who we are and what we stand for,” he continued.
“With this, we proudly take our place in League One.
“It will be a massive step forward that speaks to the courage of our players, the dedication of our coaches, and the tireless work of every single person behind the scenes who gives their heart to this club.”
According to Gagro, this is a special moment for Croatian community in Sydney, as well as the wider Zagreb football community.
“We’ve done this together. We’ve made history as one and now, with pride in our hearts and belief in what’s ahead, let’s step into the next chapter united, proud and ready for whatever comes next,” concluded the long running Zagreb Hurstville president.
