I would like to take the opportunity afforded to me by Canberra United Football Club to thank everyone for their terrific support of the team and myself over the past two seasons of the Liberty A-League.
This really is a special football club and I feel privileged to have been a part of the coaching group for four seasons, previously as an Assistant finishing runner’s up and then Premiers. The opportunity to be Head Coach for this club for the past two years has certainly been a rollercoaster ride on and off the pitch, two contrasting seasons that we couldn’t have foreseen.
To lose out on goal difference in the 2022/23 campaign was heartbreaking in all respects. We played ourselves to a standstill attempting to get into the top four and to miss out on the final day of the season when we were within touching distance, was hugely disappointing.
Last year presented us with many different challenges. From the beginning, we were up against it in terms of recruitment, the draw not being favourable to us, and during the season players being unavailable due to National team commitments. I could not have asked for any more from the group that we assembled to represent this proud club.
Every single player who was part of our process worked exceptionally hard and whilst results did not always go our way, their growth was evident throughout the seasons. They can reflect with a great deal of esteem on their self-improvement, not only as players but great teammates and people.
The same goes for my staff and I am extremely proud of them all. I offer my personal congratulations to Antoni Jagarinec on his appointment as Head Coach and know he will do an amazing job. I count him as a friend and have watched his growth as a coach first-hand.
I would therefore like to thank every single player, staff member, media individual, sponsors and all stakeholders who have been part of my tenure at the club, for their support, dedication and diligence to their tasks. And to you, our fantastic support base, thanks for your backing. It is often quoted that we have the best supporters in the league and in my opinion, this is unquestionable.
The noise and passion you provide on a matchday was noticeable from day one. One thing that stands out above everything else is it didn’t matter what the result was, the supporters were always positive towards me and our team – this is true passion. As the club enters a new chapter, I am confident that this passion will continue, and you will all get behind Big Ant and the team as only you know how.
The sea of green at McKellar Park and frequently seen on our travels is a boost to everyone connected to the club, from those working in the office to those you see pitch side and playing on matchday.
To everyone that I have connected with throughout my journey, I wish you all the best and give you my heart felt gratitude. To Canberra United FC – I wish you the very best for the future.
Regards,
Njegosh (Gosh) Popovich
