Newcastle Jets defender Emma Bates has signed a scholarship deal ahead of the new Ninja A-League 2025-26 season.
Bates has spent six years in the Jets academy across two spells, with a stint playing in the
United States college system.
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The defender played for the University of Louisiana as well as Texas A&M Corpus Christi whilst Stateside.
Furthermore, Bates has also received international recognition having previously participated in a CommBank Junior Matildas camp in 2019.
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“I’m very excited and thankful to be signing my first contract with the club,” said Bates after signing on ahead of the new season.
“To be stepping up to the first team from the academy is a dream come true, and I’ll be working hard for any opportunities that come my way.
“I’m looking forward to the season ahead and getting to work with Stephen and the girls.”
Now under the stewardship of new head coach Stephen Hoyle, Bates joins a Jets first team squad that contains new signings Anna Leat, Georgia Ritchie, Kelli Brown, Olivia Page and Charlotte Lancaster.
“Emma returned to the Jets academy this year from the US College system and impressed
a lot of people at the club, culminating in her winning the Female Academy Player of the
Year award.
He added: “She’s a composed defender with a lovely left foot. I know how much she
wanted to be a part of our Ninja A-League environment, and she thoroughly deserves this
opportunity.”
The Jets will be hoping the appointment of Hoyle can change their fortunes for the coming season after they finished 11th last campaign.
Hoyle’s side begin their Ninja A-League campaign away to Canberra United at McKellar Park on Sunday, November 2.
