As the sun begins to set on an illustrious international career, Matildas legend Clare Polkinghorne is preparing for one final, emotional match in her hometown of Brisbane. The 35-year-old central defender, who holds the all-time appearance record for Australia across both senior national teams, will don the green and gold for the last time in front of her family, friends, and adoring fans at Suncorp Stadium.
Polkinghorne’s farewell match, a friendly against Brazil on Thursday night, promises to be a fitting send-off for a player who has given so much to the game. With 167 caps and 16 goals to her name since debuting in 2006, the humble star admits the occasion won’t fully sink in until she steps onto the pitch.
Obviously, it’s really special for me to be able to come back to Brisbane and play one last game in the city that I grew up in, in the stadium that means so much to me, and in front of my family and friends and all the people that have helped me along my journey who I wouldn’t be here without today.
– Clare Polkinghorne
A Glittering Career
Polkinghorne’s Matildas career spans more than 18 years, a testament to her longevity, skill, and dedication to the sport. She has been a mainstay in the heart of Australia’s defense, featuring in multiple World Cups, Olympic campaigns, and Asian Cups.
Her on-field achievements are matched only by her leadership and professionalism off the pitch. As highlighted by interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni, Polkinghorne has been the ultimate team player throughout her career:
We use the word legend very loosely these days, but I think it describes her. She’s been not just a stalwart within the team on the field, but off the field. People talk about the team player. She’s been the absolute team player. I know from my times in charge that she’ll play anywhere and everywhere. And she just did it with aplomb, shall we say?
– Tom Sermanni
Leaving a Legacy
As she prepares to hang up her boots, Polkinghorne is confident she is leaving the Matildas in a strong position. The team has gone from strength to strength in recent years, with a new generation of talented players emerging to carry on her legacy.
Looking ahead, the Brisbane native is keen to remain involved in the game and help nurture the next crop of Australian football stars. Coaching appeals as a way to pass on her vast experience and knowledge:
Football has given me so much in my life. It’s really important for me that I’m able to give back and continue to help the game grow and help the players grow, and hopefully pass on a little bit of my experience and knowledge to the next couple of players coming forward.
– Clare Polkinghorne
An Emotional Farewell
As kickoff approaches for her final match, emotions will undoubtedly be running high for Polkinghorne. She admits the occasion probably won’t fully hit her until after the final whistle, as her focus remains on enjoying every last moment on the pitch.
For the Brisbane crowd, it will be a chance to say thank you and farewell to a true Matildas legend. A player who has given everything for her country, inspired countless young footballers, and leaves an indelible mark on the game in Australia.
As one chapter closes, another begins. Clare Polkinghorne’s boots will be impossible to fill, but her legacy will live on through the countless players she has inspired and the bright future she has helped build for Australian football.
