NWS Spirit FC

NWS Spirit FC’s M18s are champions for 2025!

NWS Spirit FC’s M18s have been crowned Boys Youth League Two champions, capping off a fantastic season with a dramatic Grand Final victory.

The team showed real character, fighting back from behind to secure the win. The equaliser came through Levon Vartanian (an Ararat junior), before Ben Duroux (from Macquarie Dragons) struck the decisive goal five minutes from time, to seal the comeback.

This result is the reward for months of hard work from the players and staff. A huge congratulations goes to head coach John Seroukas, assistant coach Simon Lombardi, athletic DNA coach Nathan Haber, and goalkeeper coach Adrian Rizzuto. We also acknowledge leadership staff Raphael Marie (M18–20s lead) and Dimitrios Tomaras (Head of MYL), whose guidance has been central to the success of the team.

The Grand Final win reflects not just the strength of this year’s group, but the depth of the club’s youth development pathway, and our commitment to local players progressing through our junior and youth programs.

NWS Spirit FC confirms appointment of John Seroukas as Womens First Grade Head Coach

NWS Spirit FC is proud to announce the appointment of John Seroukas as the new Head Coach of our Women’s First Grade program. John will be supported by Jai Cross, who steps into the role of Assistant Coach.

These appointments highlight Spirit’s commitment to developing and inspire our local players to compete in the NPL Women’s competition, with the intent to build on the club’s recent rise. It also signifies the club’s commitment to coach progression and opportunity, as John progresses from his current role as M18s head coach, who won the Championship this season.

Seroukas has been part of the Spirit tribe through his work across the Senior and Youth Mens/Mixed programs, while Cross progresses from his previous role as Spirit’s Womens 23s head coach.

The club also acknowledges the outstanding contribution of Tony Candy, who has stepped down from his role as Women’s First Grade Head Coach to take up a new position at Western Sydney Wanderers. A proudly local coach from Putney Rangers, “TC” has been involved with Spirit for over eight years and played a vital role in building the women’s program.

“We are thrilled to see TC progress into the A-League environment,” said Spirit President Frank Marchi. “He has been an important part of our club and embodies the Spirit values. At the same time, we’re excited for John and Jai to step into their new roles, and we know they will carry our values forward as we continue to grow the women’s program.”

NWS Spirit FC confirms departure of Mens First Grade head coach David Perkovic

NWS Spirit FC announces that long-serving Men’s First Grade Head Coach, David Perkovic, has this week resigned from his role.

Perkovic joined the club in 2016 and has led NWS Spirit FC with remarkable success. Over his near-decade in charge, he guided the team through promotion from NPL 2 to NPL 1, lifted the 2022 Waratah Cup, and most recently steered the side to the title of NSW NPL Premiers, as well as qualification for the inaugural Australian Championship.

David Perkovic shared this statement for our community:

“I feel incredibly proud and honoured to have led NWS Spirit’s 1st Grade Men’s team over the past nine seasons. The journey has been filled with many special moments, highlighted by this season’s NPL Premiership in just our third year in the league. These accomplishments will always hold a special place in my heart.

But what I will cherish most are the people. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of President Frank Marchi, the hard work of past and present technical and coaching staff, our administration team, and the dedication of every past and present player. I also want to acknowledge the wider North West Sydney community whose encouragement has added so much to the journey.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of being part of this incredible chapter”

Club President Frank Marchi paid tribute to Perkovic’s impact and legacy:

“Perko’s contribution to Spirit cannot be overstated. He has been at the heart of our club’s rise, leading our men’s program with passion and professionalism. We are so proud of what we’ve achieved together under his leadership, and we wish him every success in the future.”

NWS Spirit FC will now begin the process of appointing a new Mens First Grade head coach ahead of the Australian Championship and 2026 season.

NWS Spirit FC announces trial dates for 2026 JDL and WYL programs

NWS Spirit FC has officially confirmed its trial dates for the 2025 Junior Development League (JDL) and Women’s Youth League (WYL), offering local players opportunity to be selected into its full-time representative pathways within the north-west Sydney footballing ecosystem.

Junior Development League (JDL)

Rebranded from SAP to the Junior Development League in 2025, JDL is the entry point for young players into representative football, with Mixed squads (boys & girls, U9s to U12s) and Womens squads (girls, U10s to U13s). Our JDL program is clearly aligned Football NSW’s club standards & benchmarking, with a clear focus on developing our NWSF DNA through a football-focused, games-based program to develop players X-factors and a love of the game. The JDL program runs from January to October, with matches scheduled each weekend.

2026 trials for JDL squads are scheduled for Sunday October 12, 8am to 4pm at Christie Park. These trials are open to players living within the NWSF boundaries or those who played previously for NWSF clubs.

More information can be found by clicking here.

Women’s Youth League (WYL)

Our Womens Youth League is a full-time female representative program that competes in Football NSW Girls’ Youth League One – the state’s top tier for girls’ youth football. Our club prides itself on a safe & supportive approach to developing the NWSF DNA, with squads training three nights a week, from January to October, with matches scheduled each weekend

2026 trials for WYL squads are scheduled for Friday October 17, 4.30pm to 7pm at Christie Park (please note this has changed date/time due to field availability).

More information can be found by clicking here.

Key information

  • To receive further communication on the trial process, please complete an expression of interest form by clicking here.
  • All players who complete the EOI will receive an email correspondence closer to the trial dates confirming logistics.
  • Players must live within the eligible North West boundaries or have played for an NWSF club in 2025, to be eligible for the JDL program. The boundaries can be viewed by clicking here.
  • Trials are open to all interested players, with positions available in each squad, as well as pathway player positions.
  • Due to a high retention rate, at present, NWS Spirit FC will NOT be holding trials for our Mixed/Boys Youth League squads.
  • More information around the newly launched Association Talent Development squads (ATD), which replaces the AYL program, will be communicated in a future update. Trials for this program are anticipated to be in early November.

NWS Spirit FC crowned NPL Mens Premiers!

NWS Spirit FC secured its first ever National Premier League NSW Men’s Premiership thanks to a 3-1 win over Central Coast Mariners at Christie Park.

Saving one of their best performances for a big night for the club, Yu Okubo was involved throughout scoring a brace before Michael Konestabo took the lead out to three before the hour mark.

Riding the momentum wave from their midweek win over St George FC that secured Australian Championship status, the competition leaders looked confident early on rewarded with a goal before the 10th minute.

A dangerous Ollie Wiggin ball from the right taking a deflection before falling at the feet of Yu Okubo. His shot glanced off the post before bouncing over the line.

The hosts continuing to pepper the visitors goal with chances to Okubo and Jamie Percevski following.

Jai Rose had the Mariners first notable chance of the game, the young gun hooking his effort wide from inside the area in the 32nd minute after a delivery from the right wing.

Spirit had the final opportunity of the first half as Takumi Ofuka put his shot wide across goal after Michael Konestabo cut the ball back to him in first half injury time.

In control of the fixture, Spirit found their second of the evening ten minutes into the second half. Takumi Ofuka picking the ball up in the centre circle and playing in Okubo first time. The in-form striker taking it around the keeper before finishing.

Two became three soon after. The other member of the front three in Michael Konestabo added their third with a thunderous strike on the half volley after finding space outside his man.

Spirit for the most part were  in control of the game right up until the Mariners found a goal back.

That goal came from a Harrison Jablonski long range shot which took a deflection on it’s path towards goal. Spirit keeper Christopher Marques making a reflex save before Harper Ryles tapped it into the back of the net.

The final whistle soon blew and Christie Park was a sea of people as t he club historically celebrated its first ever NPL Men’s NSW Premiership after an amazing year.

Post game NWS Spirit FC coach David Petkovic reflected on a historic achievement for the club.

“It’s surreal at the moment. Very Very proud moment for us, not just the players but the staff and the people behind the scenes.

“We’ve been real good in a lot of games of late and we knew they have improved of late with just one loss in their last eight so the second goal allowed us to breathe easier after dominating territory and possession.”

While Spirit captain Grant Cornwell was overjoyed seeing his beloved Spirit finally capture a top tier men’s title.

“It’s  been a long time coming.

“Our club has been moving forward ever since Perko came in.

“I’ve been very fortunate to be apart of some historic moments this season. This season has been unbelievable.”

Originally published at Football NSW

Launching the NWS Spirit FC Summer Series for 2025!

NWS Spirit FC has officially launched the 2025 Spirit Summer Series, our fresh, flexible program aimed at accelerating player development during the off-season. Debuting in 2025, the Series invites players to craft their own football “menu”, picking and mixing the sessions that best suit their skills and schedule during the October to December period. Options include squad‑based training, strength and conditioning programs, and focused, small‑group X‑Factor sessions tailored to individual development needs.

As part of this initiative, players are also encouraged to participate in NWSF’s broader summer football programs, expanding their training opportunities and keeping their momentum going through the holidays.

Registrations are available now via the Spirit Shop, with more information on the various programs available by clicking here.

David Perkovic’s Mens First Grade firing to the top of the Mens NPL!

David Perkovic’s Mens First Grade side has surged to the top of the NPL NSW table off the back of a remarkable run of results, capped by some of the most exciting matches seen at Christie Park in years.

It started with a statement 6-3 win over Rockdale, a thrilling match featuring braces from Yu Okubo and Takumi Ofuka, along with a late show of resilience as Spirit took control in a high-scoring thriller. That momentum carried into a dominant 5-0 victory over Marconi, where Michael Konestabo stole the show with two goals, including an outrageous effort from outside the box.

Most recently, the squad showed their grit in a tense 2-1 win over Sydney Olympic. With the game locked at 1-1 late on, Harry Keys found the breakthrough in the 90 minute, sparking huge celebrations at Christie Park and cementing their place at the top of the ladder.

“Perko’s” side has blended attacking flair with discipline, with the belief in the group clear as they head into the final rounds of the season. With the Spirit Tribe behind them, they’re determined to take out what would be the club’s first ever NPL Mens Premiership.

Expressions of interest open for NWS Spirit FC in 2026!

NWS Spirit FC is calling on ambitious players and coaches to be part of our journey in 2026.

Whether you’re wanting to progress into our integrated, incluisve football pathway, or want to join a safe & supportive coaching environment, this is your chance to express your interest in becoming part of the Spirit Tribe.

We’re looking for:

  • Players in Juniors and Youth who are humble, hard working, and ready to develop their football in a professional, proudly local environment.

  • Coaches who are passionate about player development, aligned with our club values, and eager to contribute to a collaborative culture.

By submitting an expression of interest, you’ll be kept up to date with key trial dates, coaching opportunities, and important information about the 2026 season.

Find out more about playing and coaching at Spirit FC.

Submit your EOI today and take the first step towards wearing the Spirit badge in 2026.

Our Gala Night brings together the Spirit tribe!

It’s Spirit FC’s night of nights, and you won’t want to miss it!

  • Friday August 8, 7pm
  • The Governor Hotel, our major sponsor
  • $95 per person, includes dinner and drinks package

Get dressed up and join the Spirit Tribe for an evening of fun, food, and celebration, capped off with a massive auction to support the club!

On the night, you’ll have the chance to bid on incredible prizes including:

  • Signed jerseys from the Matildas, Socceroos and more
  • Xbox gaming gear
  • Jewellery
  • Holiday accommodation
  • Exclusive football experiences
  • Gift vouchers
  • Sydney FC Memberships

… and plenty more!

TICKET SALES CLOSE AUGUST 1 – secure your spot now and be part of a special night for the Spirit FC family.

NWS Spirit FC to host our second ever Parent Education Conference

As part of our continued commitment to holistic development, NWS Spirit FC will host its second Parent Education Conference at Christie Park, bringing together parents, coaches, and experts to foster a supportive environment for our players. Building on its debut in 2024, this conference will take place on Tuesday June 3 and Thursday June 5.

The conference will feature a series of insightful presentations designed to support parent understanding of the football program at Spirit and how parents can support their child. This includes practical sessions focusing on our football philosophy, as well as presentations from sports psychologist Luca Falcone and experienced educator Gareth Long.

These sessions are part of the club’s broader initiative to engage parents in the developmental journey of their children, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach to develop great people and great players.

For those who cannot attend, resources and recordings from the conference will be made available at nwsfdna.com.

Tribe Day for 2025 made possible by our volunteers!

Our recent Tribe Day at Christie Park was a fantastic celebration of everything that makes Spirit FC special. All of our Juniors and Youth teams came together to support the Senior programs. The day also doubled as a celebration of Spirit’s culture, including half-time matches featuring our Junior players, a judging of supporter posters, and the launch of Spirit’s new Parafootball Development Centres in partnership with NWSF.

Tribe Day couldn’t have happened without the support of our amazing volunteers.

From setting up early in the morning to running stalls and coordinating team contributions, the energy and commitment shown by so many members of our community helped make the day a big success.

A special thank you goes to:

  • Bianca Hayes
  • Lisa Billington for running the uniform shop
  • Matt and Nat Smith, and Julia Lehepuu for leading the fairy floss stand
  • John McLachlan for managing advertising
  • Elise McLachlan and Joanne Rasaku for organising the raffle

We’re also incredibly grateful to all the families who donated $5 to help organise team gifts for the raffle, and to the team managers who coordinated those efforts.

To everyone who pitched in, supported, or helped out on the day: thank you. Your contribution is what makes Spirit FC more than just a football club.

New Horizon Air Conditioning partners with Spirit FC!

We’re excited to welcome New Horizon Air Conditioning as a new partner of Spirit FC.

This partnership is another great step in strengthening our community connections and supporting the people who support our players. We’re especially proud to be working with Alec Drummond, AYL 15s head coach and director of New Horizon, whose commitment to both football and quality service is well known. Alec is proudly local of Thornleigh Thunder and is a long-time member of our Spirit community, positively impacting player development and our strong club culture.

New Horizon is a trusted name in the air conditioning space, known for reliable solutions, smart technology, and great customer care. We see it as a perfect fit for Spirit FC’s values and are looking forward to what we can achieve together.

Find out more about New Horizon by clicking here.

New synthetic fields coming to Christie Park!

We’re excited to share some fantastic news for our club and the local football community.

Member for Bennelong, Jerome Laxale MP, has announced a $1.9 million election commitment to deliver five new small-sided synthetic fields at Christie Park—building on the work he started as Mayor of Ryde.

This is a huge win for our players, families, and supporters, giving us the facilities we need to train, play, and thrive—rain, hail, or shine.

What this means for Spirit FC & the local football community:

  • More playing space – supporting our growing club and grassroots sport.
  • Year-round access – no more washed-out games or cancelled training.
  • Better facilities for junior development – helping the next generation of footballers thrive.
  • A community-first investment – making the most of our sporting infrastructure.

We have been working closely with Jerome Laxale and all levels of government for a number of years to see the project get realised. We are proud to support this announcement and look forward to seeing these new facilities become a reality and want to thank Jerome for his continued support of our club and sport.

We encourage all our members to share this great news and celebrate the investment in Christie Park’s future. You can help by sharing this announcement on social media, in your club groups, and with your teammates.

For more details, check out Jerome Laxale MP’s announcement.

You can access the full media release by clicking here.

NWS Spirit FC gears up for annual Tribe Day at Christie Park

This Saturday, March 15, NWS Spirit FC is set to host its annual Tribe Day at Christie Park, bringing together players, coaches, families, and supporters in a vibrant celebration of the club’s unity and culture. The event kicks off at 2:30pm and promises a day filled with football action and community spirit.

Tribe Day is a cornerstone event for NWS Spirit FC, reflecting the club’s commitment to fostering a strong community bond. It’s an opportunity for all members—from the youngest academy players to seasoned first-grade athletes—to come together and celebrate our tribe, and our football. The day embodies our “one club” culture.

The cornerstone of Tribe Day is our back to back Women’s and Men’s First Grade matches. David Perkovic’s Men’s First Grade team has had an impressive start to the season, securing five consecutive victories and leading the competition. The Women’s First Grade team, led by Tony Candy, are also set to entertain supporters in their first home match of the new season.

Apr 13: Match action in the NPLNSW Men’s between NWS Spirit and Hills United at Sydney United Sports Centre(Photos: Damian Briggs/Speedmedia)

Beyond the on-field action, Tribe Day offers a platform for community engagement. We’ll have half-time matches, judging of posters from our Junior players, various activations, a raffle, and more!

All members of the NWS Spirit FC community and wider NWSF association are invited to join the Tribe Day festivities this Saturday at Christie Park. The day promises a fantastic experience that celebrates our “Spirit” of football and community.

NWS Spirit FC’s Mens First Grade open the season with three straight wins!

NWS Spirit FC Men’s First Grade team has started the season in spectacular fashion, securing three consecutive victories to take an early lead in the competition. Our impressive run of form has showcased their attacking prowess, with striker Yu Okubo making his mark by scoring in every match so far, matched with defensive solidity, having kept a clean sheet in two out of three matches.

The campaign kicked off with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Sydney FC at Christie Park, sealed in the dying moments of the match, setting the tone for what has been a thrilling start. Spirit FC then delivered a commanding 4-0 performance against Blacktown City, with exciting combination play upfront from Okubo and Takumi Ofuka. We continued their winning streak with a convincing 3-0 triumph over APIA Leichhardt, at Lambert Park, solidifying our current position at the top of the table.

Under the guidance of Head Coach David Perkovic, the team has displayed excellent cohesion and determination, reflecting their hard work and preparation in the pre-season. With momentum on their side, NWS Spirit FC is well-positioned to build on this positive start and push for a successful campaign.

Next up, they face St George City FA, aiming to maintain their winning form and continue ‘our journey, our way’.