Tue 10th Apr 2007

Adelaide United FC Chief Executive Michael Petrillo today announced that in a mutual decision, former Captain Ross Aloisi has retired from the club.

Aloisi, who has been hampered by injuries over the last two months, has decided that due to these persistent injuries and in light of the club’s mission to rejuvenate the playing group with the addition of bright young stars such as Kristian Sarkies and Bruce Djite, that it was in the best interests of the club to step down.

“Ross has had a fantastic playing career with the club and we admire his decision to make way for younger players in the playing group,” Mr. Petrillo said.

“He has put the club first and as the inaugural captain of the club in the Hyundai A-League, Ross will always hold a special place within Adelaide United and in the hearts and minds of all supporters.”

Adelaide United’s Aloisi achieved a lot with the club. He was captain when Adelaide United FC won the inaugural Premiership in the Hyundai A-League, he led the team to the Pre Season Cup in 2006 as well as into the 2006/07 Hyundai A-League grand final and also achieved qualification for the 2007 and 2008 AFC Champions League.

On the decision Aloisi said, “Football has given so much to me and I’m just very thankful for the special opportunities I’ve received along the way, including playing in Europe, but none more special than to finish my HAL playing career with Adelaide United and as its captain over the last two years.”

Mr. Petrillo said, “We wish Ross well in the next phase of his future and thank him for the wonderful contribution he has made to the game and the Adelaide United Football Club. We will also be making an announcement regarding a Testimonial Dinner for Ross in the next couple of weeks.”