Emily Nadj is the first nomination in the inaugural Melbourne FC VWFL Player of the Year award.
The award is run with the support of the Melbourne Football Club, recognising not just on field achievements, but the valuable contributions made by women in participating in their clubs and actively trying to grow and develop the game.
Cranbourne Football Club’s Emily Nadj ticks all of these boxes, and is the first of four monthly nominations.
Emily is a quiet but influential presence at the club. When asked about her nomination, she responded humbly by firstly pointing out the benefits this would bring to Cranbourne in recognising the hard work of many.
While a recurring knee injury may have Emily off the playing field, it hasn’t stopped her from developing into one of the leaders at her club. It is her energetic spirit and her positive attitude that she says has encouraged her to ensure she stays involved with the team even though she can’t play.
Putting a positive spin on what could be a negative, she’s using this time on the sidelines to learn the ropes of team management.
“I still want to be part of a club, part of a team. Just because I can’t play doesn’t mean I can’t do something to help,” Emily said.
She never misses a training session and this is another example of how she tries to encourage others - especially players who may be injured - that they can still be involved.
Cranbourne Director of Female Football, Marion Edward has nothing but praise for how well Emily has made the transition, saying “she’s definitely stood up and does show leadership qualities.”
Emily was presented with the nomination in front of all the club’s female and male teams, with Marion highlighting how impressed the male players at the club were with her award.
“They were most impressed that out of all the clubs in the VWFL, that she won the award for that month.
“A lot of the old school guys are now seeing that there is a female presence in football and we’re definitely getting a lot of support from the Board and the President of the club. There are definitely changing attitudes where female football is concerned.”
For Emily, the announcement enforced her belief that everyone at Cranbourne is working hard to raise the profile of women’s football.
“It was good having the acknowledgment from the President. We want to build on women’s football. We’re all there because we love the game.”
With Berwick not fielding its Premier side in 2014, Emily and her teammates have made a quick transition into the Cranbourne squad where she has played an integral role in helping the girls from Berwick settle into their new home.
The Player of the Year award not only recognises the significant contribution of the women who play football, but it highlights the important work that women do behind the scenes.
Emily is creating strong ties and making lasting connections at the Cranbourne Football Club. She’s a role model to her teammates, showing that despite injury a player can still have a positive input into their club.
This nomination is testament to Emily Nadj’s hard work and dedication to women’s football.
The overall winner of the Player of the Year award will be announced at the VWFL’s end of year presentation night.
By Kate Smart
Last Modified on 18/06/2014 09:12