Melbourne Victory - Darian Jenkins

Melbourne Victory started the 2019/20 season with a clear statement of intent, announcing three high profile American signings. Speedy winger Darian Jenkins joined experienced defender Emily Menges and National Team player Haley Hanson as W-League rookies.

Despite being only 24 at time of signing, Jenkins already boasted experience with two NWSL clubs including the dominant North Carolina Courage. Fans eagerly anticipated her ability to link up with club stalwart Natasha Dowie and the goals that would ensue. Jenkins did not disappoint, scoring five times and assisting twice in her debut campaign.

Darian Jenkins was named as a starter in the PFA Team of the Season, capping off a superb year which saw Melbourne Victory finish second on the W-League table. As Dowie moves into the later years of her career Jenkins looms as the ideal signing around which to build Victory’s attack.

Newcastle Jets - Claire Coelho

While high profile international signings dominated conversation at the outset of the 2019/20 season, Newcastle Jets slipped under the radar with a unique strategy. They invested heavily in young and emerging Australian talent, giving opportunities to local players from the region. Claire Coelho was one such player.

After biding her time as a backup in seasons past, she was finally given the role of first-choice goalkeeper and did not disappoint. In a team that struggled defensively Coelho shone, starting all 12 games and leading the league for saves with a total of 68.

Whether the Jets reconsider their recruiting strategy after a bottom of the table finish remains to be seen, but there is no doubt they unearthed a top-tier player in Coelho. As she enters the prime of her career she will be an excellent foundation around which Newcastle can build a squad to challenge in future seasons.