From its earliest days, Eastern Lions Soccer Club (ELSC) prided itself on bringing people together; starting with its unity and mateship – the envy of many local clubs. The unity and mateship apply to all club members – board members, coaches, players, juniors, fans and parents.
ELSC, formerly known as the Waverley City Soccer Club, was formed in 1963 by a group of British ex-pats. A merger with Old Scotch FC and Old Scotch Waverley in 1997 was followed in 2003 with the new Eastern Lions SC.
The early years were a whirlwind of success for the club. In 1964, just a year after kicking the first ball, Waverley City Soccer Club was crowned Metropolitan Fourth Division Champions. By 1968 having made their ascent through the league tables, they were competing against the best Victoria had to offer.
A short barren spell was followed by a State One title in 1975, a Winfield Cup in 1977, and Harry Armstrong Cup in 1987. ELSC considers 2010-2020 their ‘blistering decade’ with three championship seasons taking them to the pinnacle of Victoria’s, and Australia’s, soccer pyramid: The National Premier League One (NPL1). Under the guidance of longstanding senior coach, Jimmy Williams and his coaching staff, the Senior squad reached the summit in 2020.
During the past 50 years, the Eastern Lions Soccer Club has embraced junior teams in every age category (from 5 years), ensuring that every child has the opportunity to regularly train and play with Football Federation of Australia accredited and skilled coaches. The dedicated coaches and staff ensure that all juniors develop to their maximum potential in a safe and caring environment.
The club has many different teams: Seniors, Under 21s, Under 19s, Under 17s, Under 16s, Under 15s, Under 12s, Mino Roos, Metro Men’s and Women’s.
Under 16s club captain Nathan Stamatelos says “I’ve been at ELSC for one year, and it’s been the best soccer journey I have had. The coaching, the facilities, the friendliness of everyone involved with the club has been awesome. What I admire the most is hearing the stories from the guys that are still at the club, who played for the Lions 10/20 years ago. It is a family club”.
To learn more about joining ELSC, please email admin@easternlions.com.au or phone Norm Willcocks on 0416 036 346 to discuss opportunities.
