Roots behind FFA Cup's rising Member Federation forces

The FFA Cup serves as the ultimate meeting point of style, culture and history as clubs from across the country come together in search of a single goal.

READ: Local derbies light up FFA Cup Round of 32 opening night

READ: The five hidden gems for the FFA Cup Round of 32

We take a look at some of the unique backgrounds of member federation clubs competing in the FFA Cup Round of 32.

 

AVONDALE FC

Formerly known as Keilor United, Avondale was founded by Italian migrants in 1984.

The club's growth has been mirrored by its rapid climb up the pyramid and development into one of Victoria's emerging forces.

Currently third in NPL Victoria, the recruitment of Argentine midfielder Jonatan Germano and former Melbourne City player could be just the injection of experience needed to get past Marconi Stallions, with whom they share Italian ties.

Avondale

 

HELLENIC AC

As their name suggests, Hellenic Athletic Club have strong links with the Greek community of Darwin.

The club was formed in 1958 and has developed a strong rivalry with Darwin Olympic, whom they crushed 4-0 on the way to qualification for the main draw.

Interestingly, Hellenic count former Nepal youth international Sulav Maskey among their multicultural playing stocks.

They will be representing both the wider Northern Territory and their own proud roots when they meet Western Sydney Wanderers on August 7.

Hellenic Athletic

 

APIA LEICHHARDT TIGERS

Another club with Italian heritge, APIA Leichhardt were founded as the Associazione Poli-sportiva Italo Australiana in 1954.

Based in the inner-western Sydney suburb of Leichhardt, APIA grew to national prominence throughout the 1960's and were considered among the leading clubs in Australia.

Nicknamed the Marronazzuri in tribute to their colours, the side won the NSW Premiership four times between 1964-1975.

Currently the club are coached by Scotsman Billy McColl and are favourites to take out this seasons NPL NSW Premiership.

APIA Leichhardt - pic courtesy of Football NSW

 

BONNYRIGG WHITE EAGLES

Bonnyrigg were originally founded by Serbian immigrants in 1968 as Avala Sports Club, named after the Avala mountain in Serbia.

The club changed their name to Bonnyrigg White Eagles after the 1992 season, with the badge consisting of a double-headed White Eagle with a soccer ball over a boomerang.

Current Caltex Socceroos Milos Degenek and Danny Vukovic are two of the biggest names to emerge from the White Eagles, while former Adelaide United striker Robbie Younis also plied his trade at the club.

The White Eagles have been one of the most successful NPL NSW clubs in recent times, claiming three Championships and five Premierships since 2009.

Bonnyrigg White Eagles

 

LIONS FC

Lions FC were founded by Dutch immigrants in 1957 and was known as Hollandia for the following two decades.

The club would take part in lower and first division competitions in Queensland before joining the National Soccer League as a foundation member in 1977 and winning the NSL Cup in 1982.

Since then the club has been one of Queensland football's shining lights, and in the 1983/84 season Northern Ireland and Manchester United legend George best played a four-match stint.

Currently, the club has former Brisbane Roar forward Jean Carlos Solorzano on their books.

Lions FC celebrate scoring the opener against Croydon Kings.