Our Club

Our story. Our people. Our home.

OUR VISION

To be a leading club where football and community grow together. By nurturing and developing talent. Creating clear pathways for players of all ages and building strong connections that last beyond the game.

OUR MISSION

At Avondale FC, we are committed to creating a welcoming and family-oriented environment where players, from juniors to seniors, can thrive.

We aim to:

  • Develop and mentor players to their full potential.
  • Build a strong sense of belonging for our members, supporters and local community.
  • Promote the values of respect, teamwork, and resilience both on and off the field.
  • Provide a place where football is more than a game, it’s a journey of growth and connection.
Players of Avondale FC women’s team embrace in a tight huddle, preparing with confidence.

CLUB HISTORY

What started in 1984 as Keilor I.C.K.A., founded by passionate Italian migrants in Melbourne, today has grown into a force within NPL Victoria.

After relocating to Avondale Heights in 1999 and rebranding as Avondale FC in 2015, we embarked on a remarkable rise, securing five promotions in just six years. Proudly known as The Avengers, we’ve cemented our reputation as one of Victoria’s premier clubs, highlighted by winning the 2021 Dockerty Cup and completing a historic premiership-championship double in 2023.

Our success has earned us recognition as an Australian Championship Foundation Club. Based at Avenger Park in Parkville, we’re celebrated not only for our dynamic, attacking style of football but also for our strong community spirit and commitment to developing homegrown talent.

Historic Avondale Heights SC logo alongside the modern Avondale FC crest.

KEY PERSONNEL AND CONTACTS

Stephen Strano

President

Stephen Strano

Carmello Grasso

Vice President

Carmello Grasso

Robert Marinkovic

Operations Manager

Robert Marinkovic

Gulcan Genitsaris

Community Engagement Manager

Gulcan Genitsaris

Ljuban Palinic

Director of Football

Ljuban Palinic

John Kobiela

Head of High Performance

John Kobiela

OUR GROUNDS

Senior Ground

Avenger Park
476 Brunswick Road, Parkville VIC 3055

Avenger Park

Juniors

Fairbairn Park
Newsom Street &, Woods St, Ascot Vale VIC 3032

 

 

GOVERNANCE

POLICIES

Football Australia Membership Protection Policy including Safeguarding, Bullying and Harassment, Anti-Discrimination and Complaints procedure. View Here.

If you have any questions about any of these policies and wish to speak to Avondale Football Club’s Membership Protection Information Officer/ Child Safety Officer please contact Grace Bovalina at operation@avondalefc.com.au or 0487 164 948.

Purpose:
This policy outlines Avondale FC’s position regarding the refund of registration fees and deposits paid by players or their guardians.

Policy Statement:
Avondale FC operates on a not-for-profit basis and relies on registration fees to cover essential costs, including facility hire, equipment, coaching staff, and league registrations. These costs are incurred in advance based on confirmed registrations.

Accordingly, the following policy applies:

No Refund on Deposits:
All deposits paid to secure a player’s position in a team are non-refundable under any circumstances.

No Refund on Registration Fees:
Once registration fees have been paid in full or in part, they are non-refundable, regardless of the reason for withdrawal or inability to participate.

Acknowledgement:
By proceeding with payment of the deposit and/or registration fees, players and guardians acknowledge and agree to the terms of this refund policy.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Our Commitment

At Avondale FC, we believe football should be more than a game — it should be a safe, respectful and inclusive space for everyone.

Whether you’re a player, parent, coach, volunteer or staff member, being part of our club means upholding this Code of Conduct and helping us create a positive and professional club culture.

  • Play by the rules and respect referees, teammates, opponents and officials.
  • Compete fairly, honestly and always give your best.
  • Avoid foul language, bullying, discrimination or harassment.
  • Accept referees’ decisions calmly, without argument.
  • Represent Avondale FC positively, on and off the field.
  • Care for club equipment, uniforms and facilities.

  • Encourage your child to play fairly and respect everyone involved.
  • Lead by example with positive sideline behaviour.
  • Communicate respectfully with coaches and club officials.
  • Avoid publicly criticising players, referees or other parents.
  • Support our safeguarding, child safety and inclusion policies.
  • Ensure your child arrives prepared, on time and in correct kit.

  • Prioritise player safety, enjoyment and wellbeing over winning.
  • Treat all players equally, regardless of background or ability.
  • Use positive, constructive and inclusive language.
  • Show respect to referees, opponents and club officials.
  • Uphold and enforce club policies, especially around child safety and inclusion.
  • Maintain all required coaching accreditations and checks.

  • Officiate impartially, honestly and consistently.
  • Communicate calmly and respectfully.
  • Treat players, coaches and spectators fairly.
  • Apply the Laws of the Game without bias.
  • Report serious incidents or misconduct promptly.

  • Act honestly, responsibly and in the club’s best interests.
  • Support and apply all club policies and procedures.
  • Treat everyone fairly and respectfully.
  • Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all, especially children.
  • Protect confidential information.
  • Communicate openly and constructively.

(Admin, Operations, Finance, Marketing, Facilities, etc.)

  • Act with professionalism, integrity and in line with club values.
  • Handle member and club information responsibly and confidentially.
  • Treat colleagues, members and external partners fairly.
  • Support and uphold all club policies, including safeguarding, inclusion and risk management.
  • Communicate transparently and help build a positive workplace.
  • Declare and manage any conflicts of interest promptly.

We take this Code seriously. Breaches may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Suspension from matches, training or duties
  • Termination of membership, role or position

If you have concerns, please report them promptly to the Club General Manager, Operations Manager or Club President. All reports are handled confidentially and fairly, in line with our Complaints & Grievance Policy.

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