callum mcneill

We sat down for a chat with Callum McNeill, a very talented ball playing defender, who will again wear the captain’s armband in 2025 for our Bay Olympic Northern Premier Team.

About Callum (Cal)

Callum is 25 years old and a plumber by trade. He played his youth football at Lynn Avon, Bay Olympic and Onehunga Sports. At Onehunga he was influenced by Hiroshi Miyazawa both in youth football and when he made his senior debut in 2017 as a 17-year-old. Asked what made Miya influential, Cal replied “his knowledge and understanding of the game was so good”.

In 2019 Cal returned to Bay Olympic mid-season helping the team to promotion back to the Northern Premier League and a Chatham Cup semi-final under Paul Marshall. Cal has been ever-present since bringing up his 100th appearance last season. As we start the new season Cal is sitting on 103 appearances and has scored 8 goals. After scoring during pre-season, he could be poised to start strong again today.

Bay Olympic, Pre-season, 2025 Ambition

In an era when players change Clubs regularly Cal is commencing his seventh consecutive senior season for the Bay. Asked about the Club, Cal said the people and support at the Club creates a great culture and a positive environment.

The new season has seen several players depart and some new players join.

Cal said “We have some good players (and people) come into the squad. Obviously having Derek is awesome, he is a great player and good to everyone. We have a good pre-season, lots of work, some good performances and results. In 2025 we want to make the top four, play National League and make everyone at the Club proud.”

Biggest influence in his footballing career and best moments in football

“My Dad is the biggest influence, from when I was young, he has always provided honest feedback – good and bad!” Cal’s dad, Rab played in 49 league and cup games for Bay Olympic over 2001 and 2002, scoring an impressive 29 goals!

Asked about his best moments in football, Cal nominated two – winning the Northern League with Onehunga Sports in 2018 and his injury time winner in the first game of last season against Eastern Suburbs!

Cal was also a member of the Auckland City Youth Team that won the National Title for three consecutive seasons (2017 – 2019) and was part of NZ under 17 and under 20 training squads.

Up the Bay

Cal, we love your skill and passion for the game, and your commitment to the Bay. Good luck to you and team for 2025, we are right behind you!