Former A-League coach Rado Vidosic has died at the age of 64 after a brief battle with cancer, as confirmed by his son, Dario Vidosic. The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the global soccer community, reflecting on Vidosic’s significant contributions to the sport in Australia.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Vidosic was born in the former Yugoslavia and moved to Australia in 1988, where he began his playing career with the Queensland Lions in the National Soccer League. Over the decades, he became a highly respected figure in Australian soccer, both as a player and a coach. Most recently, he served as the head of coaching for women and girls at Brighton and Hove Albion, having relocated to England to support his son, who is the head coach of the club’s Women’s Super League team.
Dario Vidosic announced his father’s passing in an emotional Instagram post, stating, “I am heartbroken to share that my father has passed away after a battle with cancer. I will carry your wisdom in my steps and your strength in my heart. Forever my hero. Love you Tata.”
Brighton and Hove Albion expressed their sorrow, stating they were “deeply saddened” by Vidosic’s death. His warm personality and extensive knowledge of the game left a lasting impact on players and coaches alike.
Throughout his career, Vidosic took on various roles with five different A-League clubs, contributing to both men’s and women’s teams. He celebrated significant achievements, including serving as an assistant coach at Brisbane Roar during its early years in the A-League, where he worked alongside notable coaches such as Miron Bleiberg, Frank Farina, and Ange Postecoglou. Under Postecoglou, Vidosic celebrated grand final victories in 2011 and 2012.
Coaching Accomplishments
Vidosic took over as head coach of Brisbane Roar in 2012 after Postecoglou’s departure to Melbourne Victory. He later served as an assistant at Sydney FC, Melbourne Victory, and Wellington Phoenix. In a notable achievement, he became the head coach of Melbourne City‘s women’s team, leading them to the premiership-championship double in the 2019-20 season.
His coaching prowess extended to the men’s side, guiding Melbourne City to the premiership in the 2022-23 season and a grand final appearance, further solidifying his legacy in Australian soccer.
As the soccer community mourns the loss of Rado Vidosic, his influence and dedication to the sport will not be forgotten. His contributions have shaped the future of Australian soccer, inspiring both players and coaches for generations to come.
