Adelaide United Football Club is pleased to confirm Mitch van Gellekom has been appointed Football Director, reflecting his expanded leadership responsibilities within the Club’s football department.
Since joining Adelaide United as Football Business Manager, van Gellekom has played a key role across football operations, strategy and organisational development, working closely with the coaching staff and football leadership to support the Club’s long-term vision.
Van Gellekom brings valuable international experience to the role, having previously worked at PSV Eindhoven, where he contributed to football development structures, education programs and international partnerships within one of Europe’s leading academy environments. He has also worked closely with former Adelaide United Technical Director Ernest Faber, helping strengthen alignment across the Club’s football program.
Van Gellekom said he is proud to take on the role and is committed to helping the Club build something sustainable, drawing on the high-performance standards and development philosophy he has experienced in Europe.
“Adelaide has felt like home from the moment I got in,” van Gellekom said. “The people have been brilliant, and I can understand why they call this Club the people’s club.”
“I’ve been fortunate to see what’s needed at a high level to develop players and build strong football programs, and I’m excited to bring those experiences into this role here at Adelaide United.”
“My message to our fans is simple: trust the process that we’re in and enjoy what we’re building together. Nights at Coopers Stadium like that remind you how special this Club is.”
Club Owner Cor Adriaanse said the appointment recognised van Gellekom’s impact and reflected Adelaide United’s commitment to developing leadership from within.
“Mitch has shown immense potential since joining Adelaide United and brings a wealth of experience from his time at PSV Eindhoven, and the work he’s done alongside Ernest Faber,” Adriaanse said.
“Adelaide United is a proud development Club and we extend this to our backroom staff as well, giving opportunities for staff like Mitch to blossom, just like our players.
“We are excited for Mitch and he has my full support in our aligned vision for the Club.”
In his expanded capacity as Football Director, van Gellekom will continue to contribute across football operations and strategic planning, while further strengthening alignment between the Club’s technical, performance and organisational objectives, supported by his European and Australian football experience.
