Football Federation Australia (FFA) today announced the opening of nominations for induction into the 2009 Football Hall of Fame. "The Football Hall of Fame is an honour of the highest prestige in the football community," said FFA CEO, Ben Buckley.
"Every sport has its legends, and the Football Hall of Fame is a fitting way to honour football's past by paying tribute to the greats, both men and women."
Buckley said that the Football Hall of Fame has two categories: the Hall of Champions to celebrate the legends of the sport on the field, and the Hall of Honour to recognise sustained, outstanding contribution off the field.
Past inductees to the Hall of Champions include past Socceroos captains Alex Tobin, Charlie Yankos, John Kosmina and Paul Wade.
Buckley also said that, for the first time, the Football Hall of Fame will be an open nomination process.
"Football is a game of opinions, and we believe the Football Hall of Fame is something in which the 'football family' should have the opportunity to engage.
"We know there are many potential candidates who have made an outstanding and continued contribution to football for many years and who have helped advance the growth of football," he said.
All nominations will be considered by the Football Hall of Fame Committee, chaired by FFA Deputy Chairman, Brian Schwartz and including FFA Director and former 1974 FIFA World Cup Socceroo, Jack Reilly, as well other former male and female players and media representatives.
Nominations close on 9 September, with the induction ceremony to take place towards the end of October.
The virtual Football Hall of Fame gallery is located at www.footballhalloffame.com.au