The Newcastle Jets’ playing stocks have been boosted by the signing of striker Melina Ayres for the 2023/24 A-League Women’s season.
Her acquisition follows quickly on the footsteps of Cassidy Davis, Matildas representative Alex Huynh and New Zealand midfielder Rebecca Burrows putting pen to paper to join coach Gary van Egmond’s squad, which is expected to hit the training paddock next month.
Newcastle kicks off its ALW campaign against the Central Coast Mariners at Industree Group Stadium, from 5pm, on Saturday 14 October.
Victorian Ayres scored 30 goals in 84 appearances across all competitions with both Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory.
She has previously represented the Junior and Young Matildas.
Originally from Murrumbeena in Melbourne’s east, the 24-year-old started her footballing career by playing with Glen Eira Phoenix and then Eastern Lions.
She made her debut in the W-League for Melbourne City in 2015, coming on as a substitute and scoring in a 6-0 win against Sydney FC.
Ayres went on to capture the 2017 W-League grand final, coming on as a substitute against the Perth Glory, in the side’s 2-0 triumph.
She’s also had huge success at NPL level in Victoria, claiming back-to-back women’s golden boot awards for 2016 (24 goals) and again in 2017 (40 goals).
From 2017 onwards, the star striker has played with Melbourne Victory where she secured a premiership in 2018/19.
Ayres then went on to win a championship twice with the Victory in 2020/21 and again in 2021/22.
In 2022, she tested herself abroad by playing with Breiðablik in Iceland’s first division.
Now, Ayres is excited to showcase her skills at the Jets and eager to get underway in Newcastle.
“I’m excited to join the club and link up with Gary (van Egmond) for a new phase of my career,” she said.
“This is a new challenge for me.
“I am looking forward to contributing to the growth and success of the Jets’ A-League Women’s program.
“I’m also anticipating enjoying life in Newcastle, finding the best surfing spots and embracing the football community in the Hunter region.”
For more sports stories:
- Inspirational Matilda Emily van Egmond receives Key to the City
- Jets in full flight for opening ALM, ALW rounds
- High-flying Knights the hottest ticket in Newy
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