Irish multi-sports star joins Mariners

The Central Coast Mariners have signed Irish International and multi-sport superstar Sarah Rowe for the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season.

The 29-year-old arrives on the Coast from Collingwood FC, where she has been a player in their AFLW program since 2018.

Rowe began playing football at a young age, representing the Republic of Ireland at under-15s, under-17s and under-19s level.

After helping Ireland to the semi-finals of the 2014 UEFA women’s under-19’s championships, Rowe made her senior debut in 2015, getting an assist against Hungary in a 1-all draw after coming on as a substitute.

With a proud family history in Gaelic football she made the full-time switch, representing Dublin City University at club level and Mayo at inter-county level.

Playing as a forward for her county, Rowe featured in three Ladies’ National Football League finals, as well as the 2017 All-Ireland Senior Ladies’ Football Championship final.

She decided to move to Australia in 2018 to play her third professional sport, AFL, signing with Collingwood Football Club.

One of the first Irish women to sign for an AFLW team, she made her debut in early 2019, featuring in every edition of the competition since.

The multi-code star was not totally lost to football, featuring for Shelbourne Ladies in the Irish domestic league in 2021, before playing for Melbourne Victory during the back half of the 2022/23 A-League women’s season.

Rowe now joins the Central Coast Mariners in search of a new challenge, signing for the remainder of the 2024/25 Ninja A-League season.

A versatile footballer who can play as both a defender and a midfielder, the Irish International is ready to hit the ground running in yellow and navy.

“It was really appealing to me that the Central Coast is quite a new team with some exciting young players,” she said.

“I want to try and add something to this team and club and bring some further experience.

“I can’t wait to set foot out on this pitch and play in front of our fans.

“I have missed playing football; I can’t wait to put on the yellow and navy and play again.”

Head Coach Emily Husband said Rowe would be a strong addition both on and off the field.

“It is fantastic to have someone of Sarah’s experience – it will really help push the team forward this season,” she said.

“She has a brilliant work ethic so we know on the field she will work really hard and do everything that we need and she has strong leadership qualities as well.”