In the aftermath of the Second World War 23-year old Aldo Siketa and his two younger brothers Ivan (22) and Mario (17) left their homeland in Lastovo, Croatia to make the long journey to Australia by boat.
In search of a better life, the Siketa brothers arrived in Australia in 1953 when they had to enter into an undertaking with the government of the day, committing to work for two years. Life was not easy for the young men; the country, language and customs were foreign and they had only each other for support. The brothers worked hard, and in time were able to pay passage for the rest of their family to join them
in Australia.
Following a well-worn path, Aldo and his brothers began their Australian life at the migrant camp in Bonegilla, before cane cutting up north and eventually making their way south. Basing himself in Geelong Aldo, along with fellow Croatian migrants Mirko Hrkac, Ivan Sesar, Vinko Radojevic and Joe Radojevic, formed the North Geelong Croatia Soccer Club in 1967 (now known as North Geelong Warriors). Although Aldo did not take the pitch, he served the Club over many years as President, on the board, as a volunteer and a supporter.
In times when the Club was unable to afford changerooms or a clubhouse, Aldo’s family garage served as the club’s base, and his wife Anica washed the players’ kits every week. Those early days in the garage are said to have also been the birthplace of North’s junior teams, and the Siketa family also played a role in bringing women’s football to North.
Aldo’s children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren have all played for the club he helped to establish and build. On Saturday September 30 2023 Aldo’s immense work and dedication to our club (and community in general) were recognised when he was inducted into the CSAA Savez Hall of Fame.
Current club President, Tom Trupkovic, said, “Aldo was club President, and involved with the club for many years. We all know that it is not easy – especially in those days when there was no change rooms – your garage and family were good to our club.
And with that, you gave Croatians a place to meet, play football, celebrate victories and our homeland. Because of your efforts, today North Geelong Croatia has over 400 players.
Three grounds to play on – change rooms – and a hall that serves us. We are proud of the North Geelong Warriors.”
I don’t have the privilege of meeting Mr Siketa, but been in the club and felt in love of this amazing community of people that treated me just like family. Also, I have seen how everyone works (most without getting paid) in such a professional way to develop young players and honourable human beings… therefore I am sure Mr Siketa must be a great man and I am pleased because his work helped to me to meet and feel part of this one of a kind football club. Go Warriors!
