As far as sporting seasons go, 2025 wasn’t exactly a disappointing one for the Maitland Magpies Football Club.
The organisation collected a title, in NPL Men’s reserve grade, contested play-offs in the other major divisions, and walked away with a swag of accolades at the recent NNSWF van Egmond Jennings Awards.
Experienced campaigner Braedyn Crowley took home the Graham Jennings Medal for Player of the Year and backed it up with the Golden Boot honours with 22 goals to his name.
“Our men’s squad went through a bit of a transition, in regards to the new direction of the Magpies,” vice-president Corey Goodwin said.
“We’re now progressing really strongly there.”
Despite that changeover, Maitland still finished fifth in the “firsts” with nine wins, before bowing out in the elimination final to the Lambton Jaffas 3-1.
The “seconds”, buoyed by 16 victories, prevailed in the grand final following a thrilling penalty shootout against Cooks Hill United FC.
As for the women, they more than held their own in elite company.
First grade clinched second on the ladder, while the reserves snared the minor premiership on the back of 13 triumphs.
However, both sides suffered defeats in their deciders, to Charlestown Azzurri (1-0) and Newcastle Olympic (4-2) respectively.
The Magpies received plenty of joy at the NNSWF awards night, though.
Maitland FC claimed the NPL Women’s Club of the Year, Fair Play and Club Championships plaudits.
Joseph Wright was named Coaches’ Coach of the Year, Annabella Thornton picked up the Debra Carlin Award for Goalkeeper of the Year and Sophie Nenadovic captured the double, Players’ Player of the Year and Media Player of the Year.
“Our women’s program was extremely strong,” Goodwin told the Newcastle Weekly.
“You can see that from the results and the awards, which we won.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t come away with as many titles, overall, as we wanted to.
“But, the signs are promising.
“I think we’re a great chance to take most, if not all, of the trophies in 2026.”
While Adam Hughes will guide the men’s campaign again, Wright is stepping down from his role.
“Joe’s about to welcome a new bub, so he’ll spend quality time with the family,” Goodwin said.
“He did a brilliant job, winning the Coaches’ Coach of the Year, however we certainly understand his decision.
“We’ve got Ben Horgan moving in as the women’s first grade mentor, so everyone’s excited by that appointment.”
Goodwin also acknowledged outgoing president Steve Good for his dedicated service to the Magpies.
“He’s completed his tenure and will now focus on his family,” he said.
“He’ll also continue his passion for coaching within the Junior Development Girls program.
“So, we thank Steve for his outstanding contribution, leadership and commitment to the growth and success of Maitland FC over many years.
“His efforts have played an important role in shaping the club’s strong foundations and culture.”
Maitland Magpies 2026 committee – president: PJ Kranias; vice-president: Corey Goodwin; secretary: Anne Ghazaleh; treasurer: James Carr; board Chair: Ben Young; head of Football/NPLM head coach: Adam Hughes; NPLW head coach: Ben Horgan; executive of women’s football: Georgia Amess; PYLB technical director: Graham Law; JDLB technical director: Adam Morphett; PYLG and JDLG technical director: Ben Boyd; PYLB operations manager: Katrina Anderson; JDLB operations manager: Gemma Duck; and JDLG/PYLG operations manager: Mel Boyd
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