Newcastle Jets have announced the return of legend Nigel Boogaard to the club in the role of General Manager of Football.
Born and raised in Newcastle, Boogaard played 122 times for the Jets in the Isuzu UTE A-League (6th all time), with 121 coming as captain, before hanging up his boots in 2021.
Now 38 years old, his new role will focus on managing the club’s Isuzu UTE A-League and Ninja A-League playing rosters, as well as providing direction to player development in the academy and pre-academy.
“I am incredibly excited to be re-joining the Newcastle Jets at such a pivotal moment for the Club,” Boogaard said.
“This region means a great deal to me, and I’m honoured to have the opportunity to help shape its football future.
“With the strong backing of Maverick Sports Partners and the appointment of a new CEO in Tain Drinkwater, it’s clear the Club is entering a bold new era.
“There’s a clear vision and renewed ambition to be a Club that our people and communities are proud to belong to and re-establish the Jets as a competitive force in the A-Leagues.
“I’m looking forward to working across all areas of the football department — A-League Men’s and Women’s, Academy and Pre-Academy. I’m committed to supporting our coaches and staff in developing the current and next generation of talent, while strengthening the club’s pathway from youth to elite level.”
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Jets CEO Tain Drinkwater added: “Nigel brings a wealth of experience to the Club, having made a significant contribution as a player, and now an executive in our business.
“Nigel’s experience and knowledge of our community, the League and Club will be a key strength and we look forward to welcoming him back.
“I’d also like to acknowledge Ken Schembri who has done a fantastic job as the General Manager of Football over the past 12 months. Ken’s commitment to the Newcastle Jets has been outstanding and we wish him all the very best for his future.”
Boogaard will formally commence his new role on August 1.
The Jets are building nicely into the upcoming Isuzu UTE A-League season with new boss Mark Milligan in place and new signings beginning to roll in, headlined by the arrivals of Alex Badolato, Max Burgess and Irish defender Joe Shaughnessy.
Meanwhile in the Ninja A-League, Englishman Stephen Hoyle is set for his first season in the hot seat after replacing Ryan Campbell.
