Gorman to head new Western Sydney A-League team

A-League Head Lyall Gorman has been appointed Executive Chairman of the New Sydney Club representing western Sydney in the Hyundai A-League.

The full-time role, similar to a role that Gorman performed with the Central Coast Mariners until 2010, will encompass leadership of the Board and Management across all facets of the operation from football to finance.

Speaking of the appointment, Football Federation Australia Chief Executive Ben Buckley stated "the establishment of the A-League club in western Sydney at this time is the most important project in the context of building a sustainable A-League. I believe the club will have an impact on the A-League well beyond the region of western Sydney.

"For that reason there is no one better qualified in Australian sport than Lyall Gorman for the job of kick starting the new club.

"His experience with the Mariners and his time as Head of the Hyundai A-League provide Lyall with a unique insight into the challenges ahead and as a Bankstown boy he has a huge passion for the region."

Acknowledging Gorman's role as Head of A-League, Buckley added "the big upswing in attendances, TV audiences and club memberships in Season 7 are testament to Lyall's strategic planning, relentless drive and meticulous implementation.

"These are qualities that will be vital to the establishment of the New Sydney Club. I personally wish Lyall all the best in this exciting challenge."

Gorman's appointment, which commences on Monday 21st May, is the first step in a process that will see the appointment of an independent board of directors and dedicated executive and management team at the new club.

Gorman explains "I see the role of Executive Chairman as being about much more than building a club on behalf of members and fans. It's about being entrusted by the football community with a mandate to deliver on the enormous potential of western Sydney.

"Over the past month I have participated in seven fan forums across the region attended by passionate and committed football people. I have come away energised and emboldened by the endless possibilities in football's heartland.

"At the outset, the promise was made to put community engagement at the core of the club. That will be the strength of this new club and how it can set new benchmarks in football."

The Central Coast Mariners have also backed Gorman's appointment, with current Chairman Peter Turnbull stating "I can honestly think of few better people for the job.

"Lyall has an outstanding ability to develop new businesses and we believe many of the principles he helped instil in the culture of the Mariners he will look to implement in the new Western Sydney franchise.

"Lyall understands the need for Clubs to engage their community at a grassroots level, and knowing full well his intention to implement this approach with Western Sydney, we have no doubt their Club is in good hands."

25th May 2010 - GORMAN LEAVES MARINERS TO HEAD A-LEAGUE