WOLLONGONG Wolves chairman Tory Lavalle's response to whether the club is now ready to be part of a two-tier A-League structure is emphatic.
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"Absolutely, we're ready. No doubt in the world," Lavalle tells Australian Community Media.
The Wolves National Premier League and national knockout finals winners in 2019, have another opportunity on the big stage as part of Sunday's double-header with the Wellington Phoenix at WIN Stadium.
The Phoenix - based in Wollongong this season due to Covid travel restrictions - hold a place at the A-League table the Wolves, currently featuring Milton-Ulladulla product Chris Price, can only dream of.
However, Wellington's mere presence in the Illawarra is a timely reminder of the Wolves credentials to join the fabled National Second Division, which is likely at least two seasons away.
For Lavalle's part, he's adamant the Wolves tick all the boxes in terms of investment and infrastructure.
"We have the backing, people are interested, but everyone is in the same boat waiting to see when (a second division) will happen," Lavalle said.
"The facilities are there and the infrastructure, Wellington have partnered with the Uni (of Wollongong) and hopefully we could have a similar agreement.
"And of course the big one is playing at the Showground (WIN Stadium), it's a great place to play and we have a chance to show that again on Sunday.
"Having a double-header there is great, having Wellington in town has been a huge benefit to everyone and we get to be part of that."
Illawarra business Multi Civil and Rail, the company which Lavalle was formerly general manager of, has provided the financial backing for the double-header to go ahead and will be branded on the Phoenix shirt for the occasion.
And not just any Phoenix kit either, they will be wearing the Wolves colours with the Wellington logo, as part of 'Wollongong appreciation month'.
After the opening round 4-nil loss to Rockdale - who won last year's league title and lost the grand final to Sydney United on penalties - Wolves coach Luke Wilkshire expects to see a response against Manly United on Sunday.
"We controlled the majority of the game, but made mistakes to be 2-nil down," he said. "Then we had to chase the game.
"We want to be better every year and I think this squad can be.
"Having Wellington in town has certainly helped show the boys what it takes at the top level."
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Tim Barrow
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
When it comes to sport - at professional and community level - in the Illawarra, I'm here to provide insight, context and opinion, as well as the latest news you won't find anywhere else.
