The Olympic Ultras spoke exclusively with former Sydney Olympic hero and NSL-winner David Barrett during the summer break to discuss the current national competition, the Ultras and Olympic's ongoing revolution.
Much-loved Barrett is one of an ever-increasing number of life-long 'football people' who have kept a close eye on the club's progress and the one-time defender was more than happy to speak directly to the fans that respect and adore him still.
Reflecting on an impressive career, Barrett was quick to point towards the 1990 NSL triumph as one of his fondest memories.
“The crowd was amazing,” Barrett said.
“For me the best memory I have on the park was winning our first ever NSL Grand Final, winning 2-0 against Marconi at an absolutely packed Parramatta Stadium.
“It was a really sweet victory particularly because the win made up for our defeat the previous season also against Marconi.”
The win was Sydney Olympic's maiden premiership and drew an Australian record crowd of 26,353 to Parramatta, with Alistair Edwards and Robert Ironside scoring on either side of half time.
Mentioning the crowd support that he and all the players received that day, Barrett was keen to commend the Olympic Ultras on their most recent efforts.
“The Olympic fans were just wonderful back when I played, and it's fantastic to see the Ultras putting the effort in not just during matchday supporting the team but in supporting the club as well.”
“It really sounds like the Ultras are a part of some wonderful things at Olympic at the moment.”
Talking about the A-League and the current state-based competitions, the tireless defender agreed that there were immense opportunities for youngsters to make a name for themselves at clubs like Olympic.
“I think Adelaide and Brisbane are good to watch at the moment,” Barrett mentioned, “but a national knock-out comp would definitely throw some surprises.
“A good young player is better off getting first team experience with Olympic than playing A-League youth in my opinion.”
Adding to this, Barrett highlighted the club's long-standing position towards player development, saying proudly that “Olympic has always played a role in nurturing talent.
“It's important that good young players go on and play for the first team, Olympic's first team should always have the best talents the club has developed on show.
“My NSL debut was at 16 and it was a more physical league back then so it can be done.”
Following on from youth development, Barrett was delighted to hear that Sydney Olympic will be fielding womens teams in the NSW Womens Super League in 2011.
“It's great that we have womens teams,” Barrett said, “the womens game is growing at a rapid pace and now the girls have the chance to play for Olympic as well.”
On the 2011 season and beyond, the former stalwart was convinced that Sydney Olympic remains relevant and capable of playing a vital role in Australian football.
“I do think that Olympic should invest heavily in youth development, so that the club can produce the majority of its first team players over time.
“Too often these days clubs spend too much money on average, mediocre players that lack desire and ambition.
“The game at State League level can't afford this.”
Getting the backroom activities properly organised is the key, according to Barrett, and he agrees that the club is moving swiftly in the right direction.
“Yes, the best young talent may move on but if the set up is right then the club will continue to develop and provide opportunities for young players to blossom.”
Finally the Sydney Olympic hero pointed out his optimism with Peter Tsekenis' appointment as 2011 coach and the recent progress of the club both on and off the park.
“I want to be there to see them play,” Barrett stated in no uncertain terms.
“For me though,” he confessed, “I have to admit I hold many fond memories of my time the club.
“I will never forget my time playing for Sydney Olympic.”
http://www.olympicultras.com.au/news/88