EDITORIAL
Something special happened on Sunday night, May 18.
In front of more than 6,000 fans at Melbourne’s Park, the Central Coast Mariners women’s team made history, defeating Melbourne Victory in a gripping penalty shootout to claim their first-ever A-League Women’s Championship.
It was a stunning result – and it wasn’t just about football.
The women have followed up on the incredible men’s wins over the previous two seasons, giving the club three A-League championships in three years.
In its second season back after a 14-year absence from the competition, this women’s team, forged in our region, fuelled by belief, took on the heavyweights of the national competition and beat them.
They brought down unbeaten Melbourne City in the semis.
Then they snapped Victory’s 15-game streak in the Grand Final.
And they did it not by chance, but by being better on the night; in strategy, in stamina and in spirit.
This victory is a story of sport, yes, but it’s also a blueprint for the Central Coast.
We can be the best in the country.
When the right people are backed, when local talent is nurtured, when belief meets opportunity, the Central Coast doesn’t just compete, it leads.
Head Coach Emily Husband, now one of only four women ever to coach an A-League Women’s champion team, didn’t inherit a powerhouse.
She built one; from the backline up – from the sidelines in.
Recasting players, trusting young women, and believing they could go all the way.
And they did.
Isabel Gomez, returning from injury, was named best on ground.
Local star Bianca Galic, calm as a cucumber, sealed the win with the final penalty kick.
And goalkeeper Sarah Langman made 10 crucial saves to keep the dream alive throughout the game.
These women are not just athletes, they are proof that resilience and ambition can trump reputation.
What makes this more than a sporting triumph is what it represents.
For years, the Central Coast has struggled to gain the national respect it deserves, too often seen as a quiet region between Sydney and Newcastle.
But when our best are backed, we don’t follow – we lead.
Whether it’s in sport, science, art, media or innovation, the Coast has the talent and tenacity to set the national standard.
This Mariners women’s side just reminded us of how good we can be.
Now, as the club and community celebrate this incredible win, let’s hold onto the bigger lesson: when we invest in local talent and dream big, the Central Coast can take on anyone and win.
David Abrahams, Managing Editor
