Football Fern Deven Jackson has opened up about what it means to join Melbourne City, a club she’s long admired and now proudly calls home.
The 27-year-old Football Fern became the Club’s latest addition ahead of the 2025/26 season, signing a one-year deal following an impressive campaign with the Newcastle Jets, where she finished as the club’s top scorer.
After stepping into the City Football Academy for the first time this week, Jackson shared her immediate reflections on the move.
“Yeah, my first thoughts… I’m just amazed, really,” she said.
“I’ve actually never been out here. I’ve always played City at AAMI Park, so it’s my first time out here and I’m just baffled by the facilities and the quality. I’m just blown away, it’s a true professional’s dream.”
Jackson’s decision to join City was shaped by more than just facilities.
After stints with Canberra United and Newcastle Jets in the Ninja A-League, she was drawn to the opportunity to test herself in a high-performance environment and contribute to a team chasing major silverware both domestically and abroad with the AFC Women’s Champions League competition.
“I decided to join Melbourne City because I think what the Club has to offer in terms of the facilities is incredible, and it’s got everything to help me become the best player I can be,” she said.
“I want to challenge myself in the environment with some of the best players in the league. And I want to be in contention for some silverware”
“There are many reasons why I decided to join City, that [AFC Women’s Champions League] definitely being one of them.
“That’s just a crazy opportunity that I didn’t even know was possible when I thought about playing in the A-League, so [I’m] really excited for that.”
Jackson will be reunited with fellow Football Fern and City captain Rebekah Stott, who played an important role in helping her make the move to Melbourne.
“Yeah, Stotty is a legend. She is partly responsible for helping me get here,” Jackson said.
“I relied on her a lot, asking questions about the environment and asking her if it would be good for my football… We had a few conversations and she was really, really helpful so I’ve got a lot to owe her as well.”
On her first day, Jackson got the chance to meet several new teammates and City staff, a welcome that made an immediate impact.
“Everyone’s been super lovely. A few of the girls [were] in the gym… I’ve obviously played against them, but getting to meet them and just say hi and have a few words has been really nice.
“They’ve all been really welcoming.”
Joining a squad that reached the AFC Women’s Champions League Final and is aiming for a third consecutive Premiers Plate, Jackson is clear on her goals.
“Yeah, I’m really grateful. Melbourne City has always been a team that’s been held in high regard and coming up against them, it’s always been a tough game.
“To be a part of the team is something I do not take for granted. I love the way City plays, the brand of football, and I’m really excited to add to that and help the team go one better and win the championship.”
“I obviously want to help the team win the championship, and I want to contribute to that on-field by assisting, scoring, and just being a good teammate.”
