Football is life for Manly United’s Ellie Kerr

This week, we spoke to Manly United star Ellie Kerr about her season so far and her role as Diversity, Inclusion and Club Development Coordinator at Football New South Wales.

Manly have enjoyed a strong season in the NPL Women’s NSW competition, currently sitting fifth on the ladder, four points off the top of the table.

“We’ve had some really strong performances and shown a lot of resilience, especially against top sides,” said Kerr on the campaign so far.

“It’s a testament to our depth within the squad and it’s something we are really proud of. I think there’s a real sense of belief and trust within the group.

“Both the players and coaching staff continuously push each other and it’s an incredible environment to be around.

“We have something to prove, not only to ourselves but to the rest of the league.”

Kerr, like many players across the NPL system, balances her football with a full-time job, in which she works as Diversity, Inclusion and Club Development Coordinator at Football New South Wales.

“Much like many players in the league, balancing both work and football can definitely be challenging at times, but I’m really lucky to be in a workplace that understands and supports my football commitments,” she said.

“In addition, having Type 1 Diabetes, it’s incredibly important to surround myself in environments where there is unconditional support, and both Manly and Football NSW provide this.”

Kerr believes her role has improved her as a person, and demonstrated the impact that football can have on all communities throughout New South Wales.

“Working at Football NSW drives me to become a better player both on and off the field, my role at Football NSW is something I’m incredibly passionate about,” she said.

“In my role, I support football clubs across New South Wales to deliver initiatives that promote diversity, improve accessibility, and strengthen grassroots engagement.

“I help develop programs for multicultural communities, all-abilities football and First Nation initiatives such as managing the NAIDOC Cup and the NOVA employment Football4all gala day.

“My role highlights to me the importance of football within the community, and that it isn’t just a game – it’s so much more than that.”

Meanwhile, Kerr’s Manly side will take on an in form APIA Leichhardt this weekend, in a major clash between two top-four contenders.

With APIA currently only one point ahead of Manly, and the top six separated by just five points, every game is crucial as we enter the business end of the campaign.

“Personally, I want to keep contributing consistently and helping the team as much as I can,” Kerr said on her goals for the rest of the season.

“As a group, we’re focused on finishing the season strong, pushing for results, continuing to develop as a unit and giving the league something to get excited about.”

Watch Kerr and Manly take on APIA at 5pm on Saturday afternoon at Lambert Park, with the match available live and free on Football NSW’s YouTube Channel.