Before Basil Anthony Zempilas became a prominent figure in the Australian media landscape and politics, he showcased his athletic skills on the football field.
Based in Perth, Western Australia, Zempilas had a remarkable spell with the West Perth Football Club and left his mark as a formidable player.
Positioned as a ruckman and forward, Zempilas showed his skills and contributed significantly to the team’s performance. However, his journey on the field came to an untimely end due to an injury that led to his retirement from active football.
During his football career with the West Perth Football Club, Basil Zempilas appeared in 24 matches in the West Australian Football League (WAFL), from 1990 to 1994. His impact went beyond just on the pitch, as evidenced by his impressive goalscoring performance. record, scoring 25 goals during his tenure.
A particular highlight that will be etched in the annals of Zempilas’ football legacy came during a semi-final in 1993, when he demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess by scoring an impressive five goals. This great performance not only contributed to the team’s success, but also cemented Zempilas’ reputation as a skilled and valuable player.
While Basil Zempilas’ football career may have been cut short by injury, his time at West Perth Football Club remains an important chapter in his personal and athletic journey.
Today he brings his diverse experiences, including his football background, to his roles as a television and radio presenter, sports commentator and politician, making him a versatile and influential figure in the Australian public sphere.