Mark Birighitti Returns to Australia with Perth SC in Coaching Role
Former Dundee United goalkeeper Mark Birighitti has signed a two-year contract with Australian semi-professional club Perth SC, marking a new chapter in his football career. The 33-year-old, who has represented Australia at both youth and senior levels, will serve as the club’s Junior Goalkeeper Technical Director. In this capacity, Birighitti will mentor and develop young goalkeepers, sharing his extensive experience gained from playing professionally in the A-League and Europe. His appointment is seen as a significant boost for Perth SC, as they aim to nurture local talent and strengthen their youth development program.([thecourier.co.uk][1])
Birighitti’s move to Perth SC follows a challenging period in his playing career. After joining Dundee United in 2022, he struggled to secure a regular first-team spot, leading to limited playing time and ultimately being released at the end of the 2023–2024 season. Despite interest from other clubs, Birighitti chose to remain in Scotland for personal reasons, including his family’s happiness. However, with the opportunity to return to Australia and contribute to the development of young goalkeeping talent, Birighitti has embraced this new role.([thescottishsun.co.uk][2])
Perth SC, competing in the National Premier League (Western Australia), expressed their enthusiasm about Birighitti’s appointment. The club highlighted his wealth of professional experience and his commitment to sharing knowledge with the next generation of goalkeepers. Birighitti’s background, which includes stints at clubs like Adelaide United, Newcastle Jets, Central Coast Mariners, Swansea City, and NAC Breda, adds significant value to Perth SC’s coaching staff.([thecourier.co.uk][1])
This transition from player to coach reflects a broader trend of experienced professionals contributing to the growth of football at the grassroots level. Birighitti’s journey underscores the importance of adaptability and the impact former players can have in shaping the future of the sport.
As Birighitti embarks on this new chapter with Perth SC, his focus will be on imparting his knowledge and fostering the development of young goalkeepers, ensuring a lasting legacy in Autralia
