RITCHIE HINTON Talent Manager, Players Agent Licensed by Football Federation of Australia, Director A Players Agent licensed by FFA and UK qualified lawyer, Ritchie has kick-started the career of several of Australia s next generation of stars and manages the affairs of around 10% of the A-League including some Socceroos. Ritchie is one of the leading figures in the industry within Australia, sitting on the Executive Committee of the Australian Football Agents Association. He has also successfully placed players in Europe, Asia and North America. A former junior with Leeds United in his native UK, Ritchie understands and represent the needs of the modern player. ZELJKO SUSA Talent Manager, Director A former professional footballer himself, Zeljko has a players perceptive on athlete management, having first hand experience of the difficulties faced by professional athletes. A former Australian Under 23 international, his playing career saw him play not only in the National Soccer League (NSL), but also overseas in Spain and Croatia before a serious knee injury prematurely ended his career. Since retiring, Zeljko has completed a Bachelor of Commerce Degree, majoring in Sports Management and Marketing. He continued his involvement in football, working for the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) as a Player s Relations Officer. Zeljko is well-experienced in the industry and has effectively assisted in placing Australian players in Europe and Asia.
Football in Australia is an increasingly popular spectator sport, especially in light of the Socceroos continued success at international level, most notably the participation in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and hosting rights for the 2015 Asian Cup (to be held in Australia in January 2015). Research says 960,000 people are involved in organised soccer under FFA jurisdiction. Another million are recorded as being involved in unorganised soccer - in schools, corporate games, indoor futsal centres and other informal set-ups, such as five- or 11-a-side recreational matches which are not part of a recognised competition. The two combined bring the participation total to 1.96 million. If the number of people interested in the sport - not just as a player, but as a coach, referee or fan - are included, the numbers climb to 3.1 million. As the truly world game and therefore reflective of Australia s incredibly varied multi-cultural fabric, football more than any other sports breaks down social, economic and racial barriers and stigmas. Imagine your brand or event associated with a Socceroo or leading A-League player increase awareness and hit your target demographic, whether it be kids, adults, men or women.
One of the A-League s most recognisable and respected players on the field, and with The Pitch s help Marcos is also now one of football s hottest properties off the field in Australia too. Marcos has taken part in marketing campaigns for some of the largest brands, all keen to maximise their brand exposure through association with the world game. Marcos is the face of Summerland Credit Union launched this year in Australia (picture left). Marcos is currently the face of Adidas f50 boots in their highly visible advertising campaign within Australia. These are all examples of The Pitch Management s extensive commercial networks providing significant income opportunities for our clients outside their playing contract.
To discuss specific needs and talent requests on a no-obligations basis, please contact either Zeljko or Ritchie using the details below. They will be more than happy to discuss The Pitch s talent list. Zeljko Susa Ritchie Hinton Director Director M: +61 (0)412 632 553 M: +61 (0)433 001 234 E: zsusa@thepitchmanagement.com.au E: rhinton@thepitchmanagement.com.au Office: Postal: 12-14 Gordon St, PO Box 182 Cremorne, VIC Yarraville 3121 Australia 3013 Australia