Football Fern Annalie Longo is one of four women’s A-League players to receive scholarships to support her professional development in the sport.
The Professional Footballers Australia have awarded her the PFA Kimon Taliadoros scholarship for demonstrating excellence in education or business.
Named after a PFA co-founder, the scholarship celebrates the drive and dedication of players who are committed to their professional development.
Longo has received the award for her commitment to self-development, with last season’s Wellington Phoenix captain pursuing her coaching credentials through an Oceania Football Confederation A Licence and contributing to football media as a commentator with Sky Sport.
Longo is also the creator of the Fantails junior programme in New Zealand, which aims to engage young girls in football as part of New Zealand Football’s legacy plan for hosting the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Annalie Longo receives A$2,500 towards her personal development.
Western Sydney defender Gabriel Cleur is the other recipient of the Taliadoros scholarship, while Adelaide forward Chelsie Dawber and Brisbane Roar defender Chelsea Blissett have been awarded the PFA Craig Foster scholarship, which recognises the important role footballers play in shaping their communities and society.
The PFA’s head of player development Rita Mankowska said: “Personal development is at the heart of what we do at the PFA, and these scholarships reflect our commitment to supporting players’ lives on and off the pitch.
“Each of the recipients this year are not only developing themselves but are ensuring their journey of self-development is also impacting others. Whether that is through initiatives in grassroots football or the broader community, these players demonstrate the importance of holistic career development.”
This story was first published on October 17, 2024.
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