David DAVUTOVIĆ
Photos: Ana JUREŠIĆ
In a night filled with nostalgia and community spirit, Dandy City Football Club kicked off their 2025 season with a memorable jersey unveiling ceremony at the Croatian Catholic Centre Springvale last Thursday. The event marked a significant return to the club’s roots, featuring a traditional white-blue-blue strip inspired by Hajduk Split, complemented by a rebranded logo.
Dandy City’s new logo which was unveiled on the night
Under the leadership of new president Bero Jurešić and his committee, the event achieved record-breaking success, largely thanks to the generous support of major sponsor I&D Group and other loyal backers. Vice-president Tony Dorotić, serving as MC for the evening, delivered what many described as a “man-of-the-match” performance, keeping the proceedings flowing smoothly in the venue’s beautifully prepared small hall. The location held special significance, positioned between the club’s historical grounds in Noble Park, Keysborough, and Chelsea. The club also unveiled their away kit, featuring the traditional Hajduk Split blue and red stripes, further cementing their cultural connections.
During the evening, special recognition was given to key supporters, including Ivan Filipović from I&D Groups, City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti, and City of Casey Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambroš. The club also expressed gratitude to Velečasni Vedran Lesić for the excellent venue preparation. Head Coach Nick Tolios, noted by Dorotić as the club’s longest-serving coach, shared his aspirations for the upcoming season: “Hopefully we can win our first final and give it a shake,” he said, acknowledging the crucial role of sponsors in building the current squad. Under Tolios’ guidance, the team has already achieved significant milestones, reaching the finals for the first time in club history.
President of Dandy City Bero Jurešić with club major sponsor Ivan Filipović from the I&D Group.
President of Dandy City Bero Jurešić with City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti.
City of Greater Dandenong Mayor Jim Memeti and City of Casey Deputy Mayor Melinda Ambros at last Thursday’s season launch.
Jack Webster was confirmed as captain for the third consecutive year, demonstrating the club’s faith in his leadership. The event also recognised the dedication of volunteers who recently installed rabbit-proof fencing around the grounds, working through challenging 35°C heat. The season opener is scheduled for this Sunday, featuring a highly anticipated derby match against sister club St Albans Dinamo at Frank Holohan Reserve, with kick-off set for 17:00. A large crowd is expected for what promises to be an exciting start to the 2025 campaign. “Thanks to all the sponsors who contributed to a record-breaking night,” Dorotić emphasised. “This support helps the club and the players immensely.”
Dandy City’s senior coaching staff spearheaded by Nick Tolios (centre).
