Auckland City FC: A Dual Life of Passion and Responsibility
In the bustling city of Auckland, Angus Kilkolly balances a dual existence as both a driven forward for Auckland City FC and a regional manager at a tool company. At 29, he’s committed not only to his football career but also to his professional responsibilities, regularly beginning his day at 7 AM before heading to training and returning home late at night.
“Football is my life outside of work, and it’s a routine I embrace fully,” Kilkolly remarks during an early morning interview, with the light of dawn filtering through his window.
A Monumental Moment for Auckland City FC
Currently, Kilkolly stands on the brink of a monumental moment in his football journey, with four days left before the team departs for the Club World Cup in the United States. As four-time champions of the Oceania Football Confederation, Auckland City FC is set to face Bayern Munich, one of global football’s elite teams, marking a significant milestone not just for the club but for Kilkolly personally.
Before they set off for the U.S., however, the team has two critical matches to play in quick succession. This tight scheduling means Kilkolly has to balance his managerial duties with preparation for the tournament, all while navigating the challenges of player availability—some teammates are unable to travel due to work commitments. This scenario underscores the contrasting realities between Auckland City and their city rivals, Auckland FC, a fully professional franchise that boasts major corporate sponsorships and substantial resources.
Dedication and Perseverance Despite Challenges
Auckland City, with its modest home ground of Kiwitea Street, is a stark contrast to Auckland FC’s lavish structure, having to manage with annual revenues that barely cover the costs of their flights to the U.S. Despite these disparities, Kilkolly embodies the spirit of dedication and perseverance that defines this underdog team, having played a crucial role in their previous successes, including multiple domestic and regional titles.
“We typically control the ball and wear teams down, but matches like these against giants like Bayern will test our resilience in a new way. Many teams perceive a match against us as their cup final,” he notes with a sense of determination.
The Power of Football Beyond the Field
Born in Hawke’s Bay and immersed in football from a young age, Kilkolly’s journey in the sport has not been without personal tragedy. Following the loss of his brother and later, his father, he emphasizes how football has acted as a refuge during turbulent times in his life. Through the mental rigors of competing at a high level, he finds solace and purpose, aiming not just for personal success but also to inspire young players in New Zealand.
The Club World Cup is not merely a competitive opportunity; it serves a greater purpose for Kilkolly and his teammates, who actively engage in community initiatives promoting mentorship and healthy living among youth. Recently, they launched a campaign to build a new all-weather facility in Mount Roskill, ensuring future generations have the means to thrive in the sport.
Legacy and Inspiration in Community
Kilkolly’s teammate, Michael den Heijer, shares a similar background of resilience. His journey through football has taken him from New Zealand to Japan and Europe, illustrating the tumultuous nature of pursuing a professional football career. Now settled with Auckland City, he dedicates time to supporting young individuals through the Life Changer Foundation, a non-profit organization aimed at fostering well-being among youth, reflecting on the personal challenges he faced as a teenager without adequate mentorship.
“We want to show that even from humble beginnings, success on a global stage is possible,” he concludes, as the team anticipates facing formidable opponents like Boca Juniors after their opening match against Bayern.
With personal stakes intertwined with national pride, Auckland City’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup represents more than just football; it is a testament to the spirit of hard work, perseverance, and community engagement in the face of challenge.
