Football Victoria’s 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM), held on Wednesday evening at The Home of the Matildas at La Trobe University, marked a historic shift for the state’s governing body — and a poignant farewell to its first female President.
This year’s AGM was the first under Football Victoria’s new governance model, with voting powers extended directly to eligible clubs, replacing the longstanding system of zone-based representation. The hybrid meeting - attended both in person and online by over 100 members, staff and invited guests - reflected this fresh, more inclusive chapter in Victorian football governance.
FV Interim CEO Dan Birrell opened proceedings by highlighting the year’s key achievements and ongoing priorities, as football continues to grow across the state. He reflected on the collective success of the football community, emphasising that the accomplishments of the past year are shared by everyone in the room — and well worth celebrating.
Executive Manager of Business Services, Simon Avenell, provided an overview of FV’s 2024 solid financial performance for the Members.
“2024 was a year of significant growth in participation, underpinned by an operational surplus,” Avenell said.
“This position allows FV to continue to invest back into our game, delivering on the key priorities within our ambitious strategy.”
The evening marked the official release of the 2024 Financial Statements; and the 2024 Annual Report - a document which celebrates a year of remarkable growth and progress for football in our state.
Both the 2024 Financial Statements and 2024 Annual Reports are now available online.
View the 2024 Annual Report & Financial Statements
The night also marked the end of an era, as the FV community formally farewelled long-serving President Antonella Care.
After nearly ten years on the FV Board of Directors - including a trailblazing five year term as Football Victoria’s first female President - Care stepped down from her role, receiving a heartfelt standing ovation from attendees in acknowledgment of her leadership, passion and dedication to the game.
In her final address, Care reflected on the progress football in Victoria has made over the past decade, particularly in growing the women's game, strengthening the grassroots system and enhancing club support and infrastructure – whilst acknowledging the work that still remains.
“I am proud of what we’ve built together,” Care said.
“This organisation, these clubs, this game — they have been part of my life for many years, and I leave knowing that the future is in great hands.”
Also departing the FV Board at the AGM were fellow Directors Nick Vamvakas and Harry Zaitman.
Vamvakas enhanced the FV Board with his significant financial expertise, providing valuable guidance in particular as Chair of the Finance Risk & Audit Committee.
Zaitman, a long-time servant of Victorian football, was honoured on the night for his valuable contribution to the game with Life Membership. Zaitman’s roles have included six years as a Director, more than a decade as a Zone Representative - and close to 50 years involved in football overall.
Joining Zaitman with Life membership honours were Monika Beer (née Werner), Selin Kuralay and Louisa Bisby – all of which were also inducted into FV’s Hall of Fame in 2024.
The AGM concluded with the formal election of new Board members and the announcement of the incoming Chair, who will guide FV through its next phase of growth.
The newly appointed Directors are:
Elpis Korosidis
Elpis Korosidis brings with her over 30 years of legal experience and a deep commitment to community service. Her extensive background in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and strategic oversight is complemented by leadership roles on the boards of PRONIA, HoMie, and Griefline. As a passionate advocate for inclusion and gender equity, Korosidis champions greater female participation in football and understands the sport’s vital role in uniting Victoria’s diverse communities. Her appointment promises to strengthen governance, enhance accountability, and support Football Victoria’s long-term success.
Elenna Niteros
Elenna Niteros has a lifelong connection to the game and a professional background rooted in community impact. With experience as a player, volunteer, and club committee member, Niteros understands the grassroots realities of Victorian football. She currently leads outreach and Aboriginal programs at ACO Eye Health, where she drives meaningful outcomes in under-resourced communities through strategic focus and genuine engagement. Her people-first approach and deep commitment to inclusion and sustainability will help ensure that Football Victoria remains responsive to the needs of the diverse communities it serves.
Darren Yates
Yates’ election enriches the FV Board with a unique blend of financial expertise and deep grassroots football experience. A Chartered Accountant with over 30 years in business, Yates has also held leadership roles at Murray United FC for nearly a decade, coached at JBNPL level, and officiated both football and futsal. His commitment to regional football, female participation and futsal is informed by personal and professional involvement, including his children's progression through elite pathways. Darren’s understanding of club challenges, financial governance and regulatory frameworks positions him to be a strong advocate for sustainable, inclusive growth across all levels of Victorian football.
Following the AGM, the new-look FV Board elected a new Chair, with current Board member Dr. Angela Williams taking up the position.
Five-year Board member Lee Sammartino was also appointed to the position of Deputy Chair, providing valuable support and guidance to Williams and the rest of the Board.
Outgoing Chair Antonella Care celebrated the elections and appointments, whose expertise will guide the organisation through its next era.
“I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to our newly appointed directors and, in particular; to Dr. Angela Williams as the new Chair of Football Victoria and Lee Sammartino as Deputy Chair.
“Dr. Williams’ leadership, expertise, and vision will undoubtedly steer Football Victoria into its next exciting chapter, continuing the work of building a strong, inclusive, and sustainable future for the game. With their dedication and strategic oversight, we can be confident that Football Victoria remains in excellent hands.
“To all new directors, I welcome you to this responsibility and opportunity—you join an incredible Board and team who work tirelessly to support football at all levels. I look forward to seeing your contributions shape the future of the sport we are all so passionate about.”
With a new governance model, a refreshed Board and a strong foundation built by committed leaders, Football Victoria now looks ahead to a bold new era — one driven by collaboration, opportunity and the unifying power of the world’s most loved game.