A new chapter has been opened in Taki Nicolaidis’ career with the Championship winning coach signing on with Inglewood United.   Nicolaidis, one of the local scene’s most knowledgeable and experienced coaches, has taken on the role of assistant to Michael Garcia for the coming National Premier Leagues season.

“It’s really pleasing to be back at Inglewood, everyone has been very warm and welcoming,” said Nicolaidis, who lifted the State Cup as an Inglewood player in 1999.   “After having a couple of meetings with Michael Garcia and then the board, to hear about their plans and the role they want me to play I felt that it was the right move for me.”

“I want to help the club improve in all areas and, ultimately, be amongst the top few clubs in the State and to be winning trophies.   There is a lot of hard work ahead of us to get Inglewood to that point but we are all willing to roll up our sleeves to get the job done.”

Nicolaidis, 45, has been a long-time admirer of Garcia, so when the opportunity to work alongside the one-time Young Socceroo came up he admits he didn’t have to think long.   “I’ve have had the highest respect for Michael for a long time, not just as a player but also as a coach,” he said.

“Michael and I have had a friendly rivalry coaching against each other over the years in the Under-20s and first team, and I value his philosophy for the game.   Michael and (fellow assistant coach) Saul (Contera) are very passionate about their football and want to win trophies, and I believe we have the foundations to achieve that.”

Nicolaidis is no stranger to success.   A glittering 17-year playing career reaped three League championships, three State Cup, two Top Four and a Night Series winners medals plus four appearances for the State through spells with Floreat Athena, Perth Kangaroos, Western Knights and Inglewood, amongst others.

Upon hanging up his boots Nicolaidis turned his hand to coaching, helping Floreat to Premier League, State Cup and Night Series glory during an eight-year spell.   He guided Perth SC’s Under-20 team to three trophies in two years before taking the helm of the first team, who he steered to second position in each of the two NPL seasons.