2025 AGM Update & 2026 Committee Announcement

The Essendon Royals Soccer Club held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on the evening of Wednesday, 10 December 2025. We are pleased to confirm that a quorum of members was achieved, allowing the proceedings to proceed.

We extend our sincere thanks to all members, life members, and volunteers who attended and contributed to the club’s future direction.

Meeting Overview

President Vitale Ferrante presented his 2025 President’s Report, reflecting on a year of consolidation and growth. Key discussion points included:

  • Football Performance: A review of senior, advanced junior and community junior programs.
  • Community & Governance: The club highlighted the success of the Kick-Starters program and the significant steps taken to professionalise club governance.
  • Life Membership: We proudly inducted Terry Rowan as a Life Member, recognising his decades of service to the Royals as a player and coach.
  • Facilities: An update was provided regarding ongoing discussions with the Council to improve ground access and surface quality for all teams.

Our Newest Life Member – Terry Rowan

The Essendon Royals are proud to welcome Terry Rowan as our newest Life Member, joining his father, David Rowan, as a second-generation Life Member of the club.

Terry’s journey with the Royals spans more than two decades, beginning as a junior where he quickly established himself as a talented and committed player. A highlight of his youth career came when he helped guide the Royals’ U18 side to a State Championship title, before stepping straight into the senior ranks.

As a senior player, Terry became a cornerstone of the Royals’ resurgence following the club’s reformation in 2010. He played a key role in securing promotion in 2011, the first of three promotions he would be part of as the Royals climbed back through the divisions of Victorian football.

When his senior playing days came to an end, Terry turned his energy towards giving back to the club. He was instrumental in re-forming the Thirds team, which continues to provide a vital pathway for players to stay active and connected with the Royals family. His contributions extended to the junior ranks as well, where he spent time coaching and guiding the next generation of Royals talent.

Terry’s lifelong commitment to the Royals – on and off the pitch – reflects the very spirit of the club. His induction as a Life Member recognises not just his playing achievements, but also his enduring dedication to ensuring the Royals remain a home for players of all ages and levels.

He is the second Rowan to become a Royals life-member, following on from his father, David – who also remains heavily involved at the club.

2026 Executive Committee

We formally announce the re-elected Executive Committee, who will lead the club into the 2026 season:

  • President: Vitale Ferrante
  • Vice President: David Minnala
  • Secretary: Matthew Galea
  • Treasurer: Chris Pantelidis
  • Senior Football Representative: Steven Tribuzio
  • Junior Football Representative: Sherene Di Sauro

Additionally, we welcome Sherene Di Sauro to the newly created role of General Manager for 2026, overseeing club operations.

We look forward to bringing you regular updates from the club and a successful 2026 season on and off the pitch.