Melbourne City FC came together on Tuesday night for the Club’s annual Player of the Year Awards, recognising standout performances across both the A-League Men’s and Women’s programs following the 2025/26 regular season.
Held on the eve of the A-League Finals Series, the evening provided an opportunity to reflect on the season so far and celebrate individual and team contributions.
Following a campaign that saw City’s women’s side secure a historic third consecutive Premiership, the men’s team clinch a 12th straight Finals Series berth, and the Club claim a fourth Club Championship in five years, the evening provided an opportunity to recognise the individual performances that drove success across both squads as well as the administration side of the Club.
Top Honours
A dominant campaign from each of the Club’s captains, saw both Aziz Behich and Rebekah Stott take out top honours.
Behich was the standout on the men’s side, claiming both the Scott Jamieson Medal (Player of the Year) and Players’ Player award in an impressive campaign.
A consistent and influential presence throughout the season, Behich’s leadership and performances were central to City’s impressive AFC Champions League Elite campaign and to the team’s strong finish in the Isuzu UTE A-League.
For the women’s team, Stott took out both the Player of the Year and Players’ Player awards following another exceptional season at the heart of City’s defence.
A leader on and off the pitch, Stott played a pivotal role in guiding the team to a third straight Premiership, earning the admiration of teammates and staff alike.
Club Awards
The Curtis Good Award, recognising the A-League Men’s player who best embodies the Club’s values, was awarded to James Nieuwenhuizen following a season defined by resilience, professionalism, and selfless contribution.
In the women’s program, Leah Davidson received the Melissa Barbieri Award after stepping into the leadership group and continuing to make a significant impact both on and off the pitch, earning widespread praise for her engagement and team-first approach.
Rising Star
City’s next generation was once again recognised, with Kavian Rahmani and Shelby McMahon named the Club’s Rising Star winners.
Rahmani, a City academy product, enjoyed a breakout season, featuring in every AFC Champions League Elite match and showcasing his versatility across attacking and midfield roles.
McMahon, still just 17, continued her rapid rise, establishing herself as a consistent starter while building on previous seasons where she delivered in key moments, including in the AFC Women’s Champions League.
Golden Boot winners
Holly McNamara continued her dominance in front of goal, finishing the season with 16 goals across all competitions to claim the A-League Women’s Golden Boot for a second consecutive year, as well as Melbourne City’s Golden Boot.
In the men’s competition, Max Caputo was recognised as City’s leading scorer, netting 11 goals across all competitions in a strong season leading the line.
With the commencement of the City’s A-League Finals Series just days away and a AFC Women’s Champions League semi-final on the horizon, Melbourne City will look to build on an already impressive season, with both squads aiming to add further success in the weeks ahead.
