Melbourne City FC has added further attacking depth ahead of the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season, signing promising Queensland winger Tully Heatley to her first professional contract.
The 20-year-old joins City from Football Queensland’s Academy of Sport program, becoming another exciting young addition to Michael Matricciani’s squad as preparations continue for the new campaign.
Heatley’s journey to the professional level has been one of determination and resilience, having overcome a serious knee injury sustained while on trial with another Ninja A-League club earlier in her career.
After working her way back to full fitness, the Queenslander has continued to develop her game and now earns the opportunity to take the next step in her career with City.
A dynamic and technically gifted attacker, Heatley is comfortable playing on either wing, while her creativity and versatility also allow her to operate in an attacking midfield role.
Her arrival provides another option across City’s attacking positions as the squad looks to build on last season’s Premiership and Championship-winning campaign.
Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said Heatley’s signing was a deserved opportunity following her persistence and hard work.
“Tully has shown tremendous resilience to overcome a significant setback early in her career and earn her opportunity at the professional level,” Petrillo said.
“She’s a talented young attacker with good technical qualities and the versatility to play across a number of positions in the front third.
“We’re pleased to welcome her to Melbourne City and look forward to seeing how she continues to develop in our environment.”
Heatley said signing her first professional contract was a dream come true.
“Signing my first professional contract is something I’ve worked towards for a long time, so I’m incredibly grateful to Melbourne City for giving me this opportunity,” Heatley said.
“There have been some challenges along the way, but they’ve only made me more determined to reach this point, and it means a lot to now have the chance to play at this level.
“I’ve heard so many positive things about the Club and the environment here, and I’m really excited to get started, keep improving and do everything I can to help the team this season.”
