The Essendon Royals are proud to announce the re-signing of central defender Mikaela Jurcic, who played a pivotal role in the team’s promotion to the NPLW and securing the league title. Jurcic, who joined the Royals in 2023, has quickly become a cornerstone of the team’s defense.
Formerly the Melbourne Knights Senior Women’s team captain, Jurcic brings leadership, experience, and a solid defensive presence to the Royals. Her role in the upcoming NPLW season will be crucial as the team faces off against some of the league’s most seasoned forwards.
Jurcic’s talents extend beyond her defensive prowess. Known for her excellent output from the back and composure under pressure, she consistently demonstrates her ability to read the game, make critical interceptions, and precisely time her tackles. Remarkably, she maintained a clean disciplinary record in 2023, not receiving a single yellow card across 14 appearances, highlighting her skill and intelligence on the field.
Mikaela’s continuation with the Royals significantly boosts the team as they embark on their first NPLW campaign, bringing stability and expertise to the defensive unit.