The second of two magnificent volumes from Emeritus Professor of History, John Maynard, on the Socceroos journey through World Cup qualifying campaigns. Volume 2 starts with a 'new era' for the Socceroos with the first of five consecutive successful World Cup qualifying campaigns starting with Germany in 2006 through to Qatar 2022. In that time, the team had five coaches, four captains, and made the Round of 16 twice: first with the 'Golden Generation' in 2006 losing to eventual champions Italy; and then with the 'Surprise Generation' in 2022 with their magnificent run, only dipping out to eventual champions Argentina. Socceroos - A World Cup Odyssey is an in-depth look at the team's history with commentary on every qualifying match, the role and decisions of governing bodies such as FIFA and Football Australia, media coverage, and the reception afforded to players and coaches. It is a significant history of the game: simultaneously viewed through the expert eyes of an eminent historian, and written by a passionate, lifelong fan. And when the last page of this significant history is turned, readers will want to keep on...with the story to North America in 2026!
Professor John Maynard is a Worimi Aboriginal man from the Port Stephens region of NSW and a Professor of Indigenous Education and Research at the University of Newcastle. He has held several major positions and served on numerous prominent organizations and committees including Deputy Chairperson of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies, Executive Committee of the Australian Historical Association, New South Wales History Council, Indigenous Higher Education Advisory Council, Australian Research Council College of Experts, National Indigenous Research and Knowledges Network and the NSW Fulbright Selection Committee. He gained his Ph.D. in 2003, examining the rise of early Aboriginal political activism. He has worked with and within many Aboriginal communities, urban, rural, and remote. Professor Maynard’s publications have concentrated on the intersections of Aboriginal political and social history, and the history of Australian race relations. John is a passionate football fan and the author of several books on Aboriginal people and sport.
* History of the Socceroos in every World Cup campaign written by an Emeritus Professor of History, who is also a passionate fan.
* Includes insights into what was going on in the broader football administration context at the time.
* In two volumes: second volume covers an unprecdented run of successful qualifying campaigns from 2006 to 2022.
* This is the first book to be released which includes commentary on the Socceroos outstanding performance at the 2022 World Cup.
* This book is released during the Women's World Cup to be co-hosted by Australia from 20 July to 20 August.
* Will be launched at Football Writers' Festival in Sydney in July.
* Media release.
* Author available for literary/writers' festivals, book signings etc.
