The Parliamentary Friends of Victory Season 2025/26 launch took place at the Parliament of Victoria last Tuesday evening.
This group comprises Members of Parliament, who sit across the political spectrum, and is currently convened by Michael Galea MP and David Hodgett MLA (supported by Jade Benham MP).
Tuesday’s event was attended by more than 50 Members and Ministry Staff, including Treasurer, Jaclyn Symes, and Sports Minister, Steve Dimopoulos, with the Club feeling privileged to be connecting with such important stakeholders.
Melbourne Victory’s pulling power remains abundant, and this was emphasised by a star-studded panel, which included World Cup winner, Juan Mata, who is gearing up for his first season at the Club, Matildas Legend and new Victory Community Engagement Officer, Lydia Williams, Men’s Head Coach, Arthur Diles, and Women’s Head Coach, Jeff Hopkins.
The quartet were quizzed on a number of topics courtesy of Member-submitted questions, ranging from gender equality, the Club’s on-field prospects and Mata’s first impressions of living in Melbourne. With a smile, the Spaniard admitted an umbrella has come in handy, before detailing his passion for football on and off the pitch – discussing Victory’s season ambitions and his work with Common Goal.
Other dignitaries present included all members of the Victory Board and Victory legends, Besart Berisha and Marco Rojas, both of whom have recently taken up new off-field roles at the Club.
