Melbourne Victory have announced A-Leagues great Emma Checker as the club’s inaugural NPLW manager.
A two-time Ninja A-League champion as a player, Checker retired from the A-Leagues aged 28 at the end of the 2024 season but she has returned to Victory in an exciting new role ahead of an historic NPLW season.
Since retiring last year, former Matildas defender Checker has continued to play and coach within the NPLW, transitioned to a corporate role within the Victorian Government and been appointed to the Board of the State Sport Centres Trust.
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Checker will work alongside director of football John Didulica, and NPLW technical manager Johno Clemente, and NPLW head coach, Santi Escudero, to establish and develop a world-class pathway program for talented young Victorians.
“I am personally thrilled to welcome Emma back to the club,” said Didulica. “There is, in my mind, nobody better to come on board and support us with this important new project.
“A role like this, particularly a new one, requires a certain type of personality, as well as the requisite experience. In Emma, we have both. Not only does she have the lived experience of elite player pathways and the world of professional football, but she is also one of the most value-driven and smartest people you will come across.
“Victory and its NPLW players are very fortunate to have someone of Emma’s calibre alongside us on this journey.”
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Checker added: “Melbourne Victory has always meant a lot to me, and I’m proud to be stepping into this new role with a club that’s been such a big part of my journey.
“To return in a way that allows me to give back and help shape the future is incredibly special.
“Since retiring, I’ve looked for meaningful ways to stay involved in the game, and this opportunity feels right. I’m passionate about supporting the next generation and helping build a pathway that positively shapes their football journey. I hope to be a strong female role model and help pave the way for young players coming through this great club.”
