Signaling a strong commitment to the professionalism and unity of Australia’s A-League players, over thirty representatives from all A-League clubs this week attended the 2006 PFA Annual General Meeting via an international video conference.
The meeting reaffirmed and extended the commitment of the members to securing a Collective Bargaining Agreement to safeguard the best interests of A-League players, the sort enjoyed by the Socceroos for the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
“The early success of the A-League is, in many ways, based on the outstanding quality of football as well as the extensive work undertaken by players in promoting the A-League and their clubs,” said PFA Chairman, Brendan Schwab.
“The players are conscious of their contribution and are equally aware that they have no safety net to protect them against the dangers of a short-term and precarious career.”
Significantly for the Australian-based players, Liverpool and Australia star Harry Kewell committed to another two years on the PFA Executive. According to PFA President Simon Colosimo, Kewell’s commitment further strengthens the PFA Executive, which now comprises:
Simon Colosimo (President, Perth Glory)
Brendan Schwab (Chairman)
Ross Aloisi (Adelaide United)
Che Bunce (New Zealand Knights)
Harry Kewell (Liverpool and Australia)
Ante Milicic (Queensland Roar)
Kevin Muscat (Melbourne Victory)
Noel Spencer (Central Coast Mariners)
Stuart Young (Perth Glory)
David Zdrilic (Sydney United)
Colosimo also announced that the PFA has accepted the resignation of Chief Executive John Didulica, who has stepped down for personal reasons.
“The PFA is reluctant to accept John’s resignation but remains fully supportive of him. John has given outstanding service to the PFA over the last 5 years, initially as the PFA’s lawyer and then as Chief Executive during a difficult transition period for many members,” Colosimo said.
“John is highly regarded by all players, almost all of whom have benefited from his professional advice and assistance over the years. He and Brendan enjoyed a very close working relationship that has set in place a strong platform for the continued growth of the PFA,” Colosimo added.
Didulica will continue to act as a nominee of the PFA on the FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber, the international body which determines international contractual and transfer disputes between clubs and players.
Didulica’s position will be filled by Schwab, who has been appointed PFA Executive Chairman and will return to the PFA on a full-time basis, having acted as PFA Chief Executive between 1995 and 2003 and non-executive Chairman since March 2005.
