Grace Maher Appointed Youth Girls Technical Director
Essendon Royals Soccer Club is proud to confirm the appointment of Grace Maher as Youth Girls Technical Director, strengthening the club’s commitment to clear pathways and high-quality development for female footballers.
A former Royals player, Maher brings extensive elite-level experience to the role, alongside a strong connection to the club and its values.
Maher has been a mainstay of the A-League Women since debuting as a teenager. Born in Dubbo, New South Wales, she signed with Canberra United at 15, making her the youngest player at the time to sign with a W-League club. She went on to start in Canberra’s 2014 Grand Final victory and played a key role across multiple championship and premiership-winning seasons.
Her professional career has since spanned Canberra United, Melbourne Victory, Western United, and a short but productive stint in Iceland with KR Reykjavík, alongside national representation with the Young Matildas and inclusion in senior Matildas training environments.
Alongside her A-League Women’s career, Maher played for Essendon Royals in the NPLW in 2025, using the winter competition to maintain match fitness and continue her development. That dual involvement has seen her contribute on the pitch while also taking on leadership responsibilities within the club environment.
On the back of her A-League performances and performances with the Royals, she signed for Melbourne Victory for 2026.
“What excited me about coming on board as Technical Director for our youth girls is the opportunity to work with players and coaches at such a crucial stage of their football journeys,” Maher said. “I love coaching and working directly with footballers, and this role allows me to do that while still pursuing my playing career.”
Maher said the club’s values and long-term vision played a significant role in her decision.
“I loved being part of a club like Essendon Royals that is genuinely committed to a full player pathway. The family feel really aligns with my own values,” she said.
“It’s also important to have strong role models for young girls, where I can share my knowledge and experience to help improve their journeys.”
As Youth Girls Technical Director, Maher will work with players and coaches across the GVYPL and NPLW pathways, with a focus on individual development, confidence, and enjoyment of the game.
“For me, it’s about doing what’s best for a player’s individual development and creating an environment where girls can thrive with confidence and bravery,” she said.
“We want to play exciting football that allows players to express themselves, play through all areas of the field, and enjoy what they’re doing.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Maher is keen to build on the strong foundations already in place, both on and off the pitch.
“We’ll continue to grow from our first season and introduce off-field initiatives that help players build habits aligned with a professional mindset,” she said.
Maher also acknowledged the work of outgoing Youth Girls Technical Director Jaiden Van Der Heijden, who steps into a senior women’s coaching role in 2026.
“I’m very lucky to be taking over from Jaiden. The foundations he’s set are incredibly strong, and a big part of my role will be building on that work.”
The club looks forward to welcoming Grace into the role and continuing to strengthen the girls’ pathway at Essendon Royals.