Above: Kyah Simon poses in front of the Harbour Bridge in her new colours. Image: Sydney FC.
By Genevieve Henry (27/9/24).
Sydney FC has bolstered their attack with the huge signing of Matildas player Kyah Simon. Simon will bring over 100 international caps as well as 120 A-League women games, over half of which were with the Sky Blues.
Returning for her third stint in Sydney colours, Simon said, “I’ve always felt a deep connection with Sydney FC, winning is in the club’s DNA and is one of the main reasons for me returning.” In her two previous eras at Sydney, she netted 35 goals. From 2009-2013, she was one of not only Sydney’s best players, but Australia’s. She had perhaps the greatest season in A-League Women’s history in 2010-11, where she won the Julie Dolan medal, the A-League Women’s Golden Boot, Players’ Player of the Year, and Young Player of the Year, making her the only player to ever win all four of the top awards in one season.
“It’s quite nostalgic being back in Sky Blue and I’m looking forward to our season getting underway.” The Sydney native said, “I had my first taste of success and winning trophies here.”
She was also in the prime of her Matildas career that season, scoring the winning penalty at the 2010 AFC Women’s Asian Cup final against North Korea. She went on to score 29 goals in green and gold, her latest goal coming against Indonesia in January of 2022. She was also a part of the 2023 Women’s World Cup squad which captured the hearts of Australia. Joining Sydney FC is a stepping stone to her goal of getting back into the Matildas set-up. “If I can play 90 minutes, week in, week out, I give myself the best opportunity to be back in that set-up.”
Simon made history becoming not only the first Aboriginal Australian to score at a World Cup, but the first to reach 100 appearances, male or female. With Anaiwan, Biripi, and Kamilaroi heritage, she is a huge inspiration to young indigenous girls.
“I believe this is an opportunity to continue to drive the success of this team on and off the pitch, and to inspire our future generations to go after their dreams and see where it can take them.”
Her illustrious club career includes two stints at the Central Coast Mariners, her aforementioned time at Sydney, a high-scoring NWSL season with the Boston Breakers, a successful period at Melbourne City, a short time as PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands, and a decent period at Tottenham Hotspur in the WSL before returning to Australia. She has scored over 80 goals for these various clubs, but has the best record at Sydney.
“I’m excited to contribute to what is already a strong team.” Simon said, who will be joining a fantastic established attack of Princess Ibini, Shea Connors, and youngster Indiana Dos Santos; as well as exciting new signings Young Matilda Hana Lowry, NPLW NSW Golden Boot winner Amber Luchtmeijer, and former WSL winner Millie Farrow. In such a strong attack, Simon’s presence will be beneficial to the rising young stars that Sydney is known for nurturing. She will also add competition for the starting lineup, ensuring quality from all.
Simon spoke about already enjoying the club and her teammates, even saying, “there are definitely some future Matildas here.” She also commented that she knows how it feels to be in their shoes, saying, “I was once that 16-year old, so I know how valuable it is to have older, more experienced players to look to or lean on.”
As Simon regained fitness after recovering from her long period on the sidelines due to an ACL injury, she became an important player for the Mariners in their first season back. Fans of the Sky Blues will hope she can utilise all of her experience and leadership to make a positive impact at Sydney as well as staying fit. After her first off-season in 16 years, Simon is feeling ready to go.
She followed her partner, Faye Bryson, to the Sky Blues. Both will hopefully improve Sydney on either end of the pitch, with massive amounts of experience under their belts.
Simon, like many who join the side, is excited to get to work with head coach Ante Juric, who she had previously played under at the Matildas when he was a part of their coaching staff. “He’s proven his value as a head coach at the club level, and who knows what’s next on the cards for him.” She said, in response to a question about the open Matildas coach role.
Juric is thrilled with this acquisition, calling Simon “one of Australia’s finest footballers.”
“She made her name here, and her experience and leadership will be invaluable to the team this season.” He continued, “she knows what it means to wear this badge, and her passion for the game will lift everyone around her.
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