Iraklis 2006/07 Training Jacket Large

Condition: ★★★★★ 

An incredible piece in excellent condition. The size is Large and it was manufactured by Umbro. Iraklis Thessaloniki, one of the oldest and most historically significant football clubs in Greece, has a rich history full of interesting facts.

Here are some key points that make the club stand out:

1. Founded in 1908

Iraklis was established in 1908, making it one of the oldest clubs in Greece. It was founded by Greek refugees who arrived in Thessaloniki following the Greco-Turkish War, which adds a unique historical and cultural context to the club’s origins.

2. Club's Name

The name "Iraklis" is derived from Heracles (Hercules), the legendary Greek hero from mythology, symbolizing strength and determination. The club’s emblem features a muscular figure of Heracles holding a club.

3. Multiple Sports

While most people associate Iraklis with football, the club has historically been involved in several other sports, including basketball, volleyball, and athletics. The club's basketball team has had significant success, especially in the 1980s and 1990s, in the Greek League.

4. A Historic Rivalry with PAOK

Iraklis has a strong rivalry with PAOK Thessaloniki, the most successful club in the city. The two teams' encounters are often heated, though PAOK has been historically more dominant in Greek football. Nevertheless, these matches are known for their intensity and local pride.

5. Stadium

The team's home ground is the Kaftanzoglio Stadium in Thessaloniki, which has a capacity of around 27,000 spectators. The stadium is known for its passionate fans and atmosphere, contributing to the home advantage for Iraklis during key matches.

6. Notable Players

Over the years, Iraklis has been home to several notable Greek footballers, including:

• Stavros Tsoukalas (midfielder for Greece’s national team).
• Vasilis Hatzipanagis, often considered one of the best Greek players of all time, who played for Iraklis during the 1980s and earned a place in Greek football legend.

Hatzipanagis was renowned for his skill, vision, and dribbling ability, making him a standout figure in the club's history.

7. A Proud Legacy in European Competitions

While Iraklis has not been a dominant force in European football, the club has made memorable appearances in European competitions like the UEFA Cup (now the Europa League) and the European Cup in its early years. Their participation in the 2006/07 UEFA Cup was one of their notable recent European appearances.

8. Iraklis' "Golden Age" in the 1970s

The 1970s was considered a "golden era" for Iraklis, with the team finishing among the top clubs in the Greek league and earning regular European competition spots. Their best-ever league finish came in 1970, when they placed 2nd in the Greek First Division.

In the 2006/07 season, Iraklis Thessaloniki FC, a prominent football club in Greece, had a notable performance across various competitions. Here's a summary of their key results:

Super League Greece (Domestic League):

• League Position: 14th (out of 16 teams)
  

Greek Cup:

• Stage Reached: Round of 16

UEFA Cup (Now Europa League):

• Stage Reached: First Play Offs