A PROUD HISTORY

Founding and Early Days (1930–1949)

Sutherland Sharks FC began life in 1930 as Sutherland United Soccer Football Club, formed at the home of its first president, Mr J Nicholls. Originally playing in red and white vertical stripes, the club started modestly on cleared land near President Avenue, using makeshift boots crafted from old army gear.

By 1933, strengthened by players from Gymea Bay, the club entered the St George district competition. Their first major success came in 1934, defeating Rockdale 4-0 to claim the St George District Premiership. The same year, rapid growth led to the formation of Casuals Soccer Football Club, adopting black and gold colours.

The original Sutherland United merged into Casuals, which became the central club by 1936. Matches moved to Miller’s Paddock in Miranda, setting the stage for post-war success.

Post-War Rise and Seymour Shaw Park (1947–1959)

Post-war resurgence saw Casuals dominate the St George league, winning the Metropolitan League title in 1948. Promotion to NSW’s top division was delayed due to ground requirements, prompting the club to secure a long-term lease at Seymour Shaw Park in Miranda by 1950, named after long-serving local councillor Edward Seymour Shaw.

In 1949, the club rebranded as Sutherland Shire Casuals SFC and played a pivotal role in establishing the Sutherland Shire Junior Soccer Football Association (SSJSFA).

Stepping Up the Leagues (1950–1969)

Renamed Sutherland Shire Soccer Football Club in 1955, the club won the NSW State League Division 3 title in 1957 and gained promotion to Division 1 by 1958. The club firmly established its presence at Seymour Shaw Park from 1959 onwards.

1961 brought a brief merger as Sutherland–St George, and the first international match at Seymour Shaw, a thrilling encounter against Fiji drawing around 4,000 fans.

In the mid-60s, the club professionalised significantly, despite losing renowned coach Leo Baumgartner in 1966. Stability returned under Bob Miller, while crowds regularly topped 1,000 at matches. In 1969, John Roche became the club’s first Socceroo, highlighting Sutherland’s rising profile.

Golden Era and First Major Titles (1970–1988)

Promotion to the top flight was achieved in 1971, marked by Paul Smith’s famous goal against Manly. This kicked off an era of sustained success, including first NSW finals appearances in 1977 and a landmark Ampol Cup victory and NSW State League championship double in 1978.

Women's football history was made at Seymour Shaw in 1979 with the Australian women's national team's first home "A" international, featuring local Julie Dolan.

The 1980s saw another Ampol Cup triumph in 1981 and the 1986 NSW championship title against Melita Eagles. A record crowd of 4,500 watched the Socceroos at Seymour Shaw in 1988.

Growth, Setbacks, and Revival (1991–2009)

In 1991, Sharks clinched the minor premiership, followed by significant infrastructure improvements including a new grandstand at Seymour Shaw in 1996. Despite the club’s first relegation setback in 2002, local businessman John Hills, through his company Pipe King, helped propel the Sharks back into the elite NSW Premier League in 2006.

In 2007, Seymour Shaw Park pioneered the first FIFA-certified synthetic pitch in Australia, inaugurated with star-studded matches. The Sharks won the Premiership in 2008, notably beating A-League champions Sydney FC in front of 5,000 fans.

2009 was a remarkable treble-winning year, claiming the Waratah Cup, Leader Cup, Minor Premiership, and NSW Premier League Grand Final with a memorable 4-1 victory over Marconi Stallions.

Youth Development and Community Legacy (2010–2025)

Sutherland's youth program gained international acclaim in 2010, competing in the Manchester United Premier Cup against global elite youth teams.

The Sharks continued their success, capturing the Waratah Cup in 2012 and the Youth Club Championship in 2013. Paul Smith received Football NSW’s Charles Valentine Medal in 2017 for his extraordinary 50-year contribution to the club.

A standout achievement was the Under 20s' unprecedented three consecutive championships from 2017 to 2019. The Matildas returned to Seymour Shaw in 2019, further cementing its status as a historical football venue.

Modern Era and Facilities Upgrade (2025)

In 2025, the club completed extensive upgrades at Seymour Shaw Park, featuring a state-of-the-art clubhouse, new playing surface, and improved amenities, including "Smithy’s," a modern sports bar honouring club legend Paul Smith.

Today, Sutherland Sharks FC continues its proud legacy, celebrating a rich history and looking confidently towards the future.

Sharks celebrating the 2009 Grand Final win over Marconi 4-1 at Penrith’s CUA Stadium.