South Melbourne FC is pleased to announce that it has re-signed Canadian midfielder and 2016 Best and Fairest Winner Natalie Martineau for the 2017 NPL Victoria Season.
Martineau remained at the Club in 2016, despite numerous offers from rival clubs and was subsequently a part of her third championship in a row following our State One triumph in September.
In her three seasons with the club, the Canadian-born midfielder has impressed everyone with her exceptional work ethic and creative play. Natalie was an integral part of SMWFC’s back-to-back WPL Championships in 2014-2015 and continues to provide Coach Socrates Nicolaides with a strong leader both on and off the park.
Speaking to smfc.com.au, Martineau was excited about the new challenges ahead. “Just like all the girls, I am excited that we are now back in the top flight of Victorian Football and where we belong. This year was a difficult season, but we enjoyed every minute of it, including the increased exposure through the Club’s media team and transitioning into becoming one club. With this behind us and the fact we are now in the NPL, we all can’t wait to get started for what we believe is going to be a huge season.”
Women’s Football Director Gabrielle Guiliano shared Natalie’s thoughts on the past season. “Natalie showed great loyalty in being part of the Club in 2016 and had an outstanding season leading a very young and inexperienced team to championship glory. As we look forward to 2017, her leadership and class in the middle of the park will add quite a bit once again to the squad”.
We wish Natalie all the best for the 2017 NPL season.