Dutch migrants and their descendants have made an important contribution to Australian football, not only at club level but also in the national men’s team, the Socceroos. From the 1950s onwards, Dutch-Australians have helped shape the squad during key periods of its development. This article highlights those players of Dutch heritage who have proudly worn the green and gold.
Hans Petersen migrated from Amsterdam in the early 1950s. He played for the Socceroos in 1959 in a match against Heart of Midlothian during the Scottish club’s tour of Australia.
Dick van Alphen was born in Amsterdam and moved to Australia in 1960. He earned nine caps for the Socceroos between 1967 and 1968.
Ted de Lyster was born in The Hague and migrated to Australia. He made two appearances for the Socceroos in 1967.
Mike Petersen, of Dutch heritage, made 50 appearances for the Socceroos during the 1980s and early 1990s, including World Cup qualifying campaigns.
Tony Franken, born in Perth to Dutch parents, earned two official caps for the Socceroos in 1992 and also represented Australia at youth and under-23 levels.
Adrian Leijer, a second-generation Dutch-Australian, earned one senior cap for the Socceroos in 2008.
Aaron Mooy, whose maternal family is of Dutch heritage, played 57 times for the Socceroos between 2012 and 2022. He represented Australia at two FIFA World Cups and was a key figure in midfield during this period.
These players demonstrate the role Dutch migrants and their descendants have played in shaping the Socceroos over many decades. Their contributions reflect the broader impact of Dutch migration on the development of Australian football.
See also:
The Dutch influence in the Matildas – from early pioneers to modern stars
