As the Matildas prepare to face off against familiar foes Brazil in a highly-anticipated friendly, the match holds extra significance as it marks the end of an era for one of Australia’s greatest footballers. Clare Polkinghorne, a name synonymous with the rise of women’s football in the country, is set to bid an emotional farewell in her 168th and final appearance for the national team.
A Pioneer of the Game
Polkinghorne’s journey with the Matildas began in 2006, at a time when women’s football was still struggling to gain recognition and support. Over the course of her illustrious 18-year career, the 35-year-old defender has witnessed firsthand the incredible growth and transformation of the sport.
I was lucky to come in at a good time. When I made my debut for the Matildas, we were starting to get contracts in place for players to be paid. It’s about recognising where we’ve come from, and there’s a lot of players that came before me that did a lot of hard work to get the conversations going.
Clare Polkinghorne
From playing in front of sparse crowds to packed stadiums, Polkinghorne’s career has mirrored the Matildas’ rise to becoming one of the most beloved and supported teams in the country. Her unwavering dedication and leadership both on and off the pitch have been instrumental in pushing for better pay, conditions, and recognition for female footballers.
An Inspiration to Generations
Polkinghorne’s impact extends far beyond the impressive statistics and records she holds. As the most capped Australian footballer of all time, with an astonishing 167 appearances to her name, she has served as a role model and inspiration to countless aspiring players.
Young girls across the nation have grown up idolizing Polkinghorne, dreaming of one day following in her footsteps and representing their country on the biggest stages. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of Matildas.
A Fitting Farewell
As Polkinghorne prepares to step onto the pitch at Suncorp Stadium for one final time, the emotions will undoubtedly be running high. The significance of the occasion is not lost on interim Matildas coach Tom Sermanni, who praised the defender’s immense contributions to the team.
We use the word ‘legend’ very loosely these days, but I think it describes how she’s been not just a stalwart within the team on the field, but off the field.
Tom Sermanni, Interim Matildas Head Coach
The friendly against Brazil, a team that has been a constant fixture throughout Polkinghorne’s career, serves as a fitting backdrop for her farewell. With a rivalry that has produced some of the most memorable moments in Matildas history, there’s no doubt that both teams will be eager to put on a show in honor of the retiring legend.
Looking to the Future
As one chapter closes, another begins for Polkinghorne. While hanging up her boots as a player, she has expressed her desire to stay involved in the game and help nurture the next generation of talent.
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 players coming forward.
Clare Polkinghorne
With her wealth of experience and passion for the sport, Polkinghorne has all the makings of a successful coach. As she embarks on this new chapter, there’s no doubt that her influence will continue to shape the future of women’s football in Australia.
A Night to Remember
When Clare Polkinghorne takes to the field in Brisbane for the last time in the green and gold, it will be a moment etched in Australian football history. Fans across the country will be tuning in to pay tribute to a true icon of the game, a player who has given so much to the sport and inspired a nation.
As the final whistle blows and the curtain falls on a remarkable career, there will undoubtedly be tears, hugs, and an outpouring of gratitude for everything that Clare Polkinghorne has achieved and represented. Her legacy will forever be intertwined with the incredible journey of the Matildas, and her impact on the sport will continue to be felt for generations to come.
So, as we prepare to bid farewell to a legend, let us celebrate the extraordinary career of Clare Polkinghorne and the indelible mark she has left on Australian football. Thank you, Clare, for the memories, the inspiration, and the unwavering dedication to the green and gold. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of Matildas fans everywhere.
