Prolific goalscorer Melina Ayres has returned to Newcastle Jets for the Ninja A-League 2025-26 season after a one-year break from football.
The four-time Ninja A-League champion is back in the league after announcing she would not return to the Jets for 2024-25; at the time, the 26-year-old insisted she was not retiring and would play for Newcastle upon her return.
Now, that pledge has been fulfilled as the star striker, who scored six goals in 14 games for the Jets in 2023-24, re-joins the Newcastle squad under new head coach Stephen Hoyle.
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“I’m excited to be back at the Jets again. After a season off to reset, I can’t wait to get back on the field,” she said.
“I’ve spoken to with Stephen about the upcoming season and it’s an exciting time for the team and club.
“Thanks to my friends, family and the club for their support and I can’t wait to be representing Newcastle again.”
Ayres is the second new addition to Newcastle’s 2025-26 squad along with New Zealand international goalkeeper Anna Leat.
“We’re excited to have Melina back at the Jets,” Hoyle said.
“She’s a player of real quality with a lot of experience. Melina is someone I’ve been looking forward to seeing on the pitch since our first phone call, and I can’t wait to work with her.”
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