John Sydenham
John was inducted to English Football’s hall of fame after playing just over 400 games for Southampton. He was brought out to Australia to play with Floreat Athena during the early 1980’s. His silky skills were dazzling and his feats on the pitch were breathtaking – scoring goals from corner kicks, halfway line and easily gliding past 6 or 7 defenders. After John hung up the boots, he commenced a coaching career with many under 18 and under 23 Floreat Athena sides. His vast football knowledge and the respect he commanded saw him mentor many aspiring Athena players.
Paul Wormley
Paul was lured to Floreat Athena as a 20 year old in 1984 by then coach Alan Vest. His stature and habit for scoring goals soon made him a crowd favourite amongst the army of Athena fans. During the Halcyon days of the 1980’s Paul won the league championship and cup three years running along with two night series championships and three top four cup titles. Paul was the leading goal scorer for the club for 5 of the 7 seasons he played. He also won the Golden Boot for the league in 1988 and was given the D’Sorgna Gold Medal award in 1989.
Vas Kalagorakos
As a Floreat Athena junior, Vas often played 2 or 3 years above his correct age group. Even then it was evident his feet were going to take him places. Vas became a football journeyman, playing with Birmingham, South Melbourne and Perth Glory in the NSL and numerous Asian Premier League sides. Vas had prolific goal scoring ability and explosive pace. It is often lamented by the Athena faithful that he never reached his full potential. But when he graced the State League in the blue and white, he always entertained.
Stan Lazaridis
Arriving at Athena as a ripe 18 year old, Stan’s dribbling ability and pace saw quickly saw him claim a regular first team spot during the 1991 and 1992 seasons. It was clear he was destined for bigger things. Through the club’s Greek connections with NSL side West Adelaide Hellas, Stan was transferred at the end of the 1992 season. Along with his 4 seasons at West Ham United and 7 seasons with Birmingham City, Stan made 58 Socceroo appearances. Stan makes regular appearances to Athena and has the tunnel entrance to E & D Litis Stadium named after him.
Doug Ithier
Although a Bunbury junior, Doug arrived at Floreat Athena to play first team football at the ripe age of 20. He quickly made a name for himself as a no-nonsense defender with power and athleticism. Dubbed the “Adopted Greek” during his 9 years with Athena, Ithier was renowned for spectacular long range goals (including one from the halfway line in the 2001 Night Series Final), specialty free kicks, and bone crunching tackles. Doug went on to play with Perth Glory and extensively throughout the UK and Asia.
