Football Queensland has received official notification from Surfers Paradise Apollo SC confirming the club’s withdrawal from the 2024 National Premier Leagues (NPL) Queensland Men’s competition.
Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci said Surfers Paradise Apollo SC had the full support of the state governing body who would continue to work closely with the club moving forward.
“As we continue to strengthen Queensland’s connected football pyramid, with stricter club licensing accountability measures and upholding higher standards, we applaud Surfers Paradise Apollo SC’s ability to reflect on their position within the competition landscape and honestly assess their capabilities to successfully participate in FQ’s premier competitions,” Cavallucci said.
“This is vital not only for the ongoing sustainability and quality of Football Queensland competitions, but also for the long-term sustainability of clubs at every level of the game.”
Surfers Paradise Apollo SC’s Executive Committee said the decision to withdraw from the 2024 NPL Queensland after securing promotion from the Football Queensland Premier League (FQPL) 1 in 2023 followed careful consideration and consultation with the club’s key stakeholders.
“Despite Surfers Paradise Apollo SC’s strong on-field performance for the last three seasons, the club has determined that ongoing participation in Football Queensland’s premier competitions will no longer be viable moving forward,” the Executive Committee said.
“This decision has been based on a number of factors including the club’s ability to deliver a suitable product to meet the relevant licence criteria in addition to the long-term sustainability of Surfers Paradise Apollo SC.
“Whilst this was a tough decision to make, Surfers Paradise Apollo SC’s withdrawal from the top tiers of Football Queensland competitions is in the best interests of competition integrity and is the only viable option we deem fit for the next phase of the club.
“We remain committed to building a strong foundation for the club moving forward with a focus on junior player development, improved infrastructure and the implementation of a more sustainable model for long-term growth.”
In the coming days, Football Queensland will be inviting clubs to complete new advanced pyramid participation licence agreements that align with league composition for the 2024 season.