Reigning Ninja A-League Champions Melbourne City have handed American striker Kelli McGroarty her first professional contract, signing the 24-year-old on a one-year deal following a blistering spell in the NPLW last season.
McGroarty joins City after scoring 33 goals in 25 appearances for Essendon Royals in the NPLW VIC, comfortably claiming the Golden Boot in what was a stellar season.
The striker’s form improved as the season progressed, scoring 19 goals in her final 14 regular-season appearances to earn a move to the professional ranks.
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McGroarty previously played NCAA Division I football in the United States, representing La Salle University and the University of Iowa.
She will provide another attacking option for Michael Matricciani’s squad as City prepare to defend their Premiership and Championship crowns in 2026/27.
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Furthermore, City will also compete in the AFC Women’s Champions League for a third consecutive season.
“My time in Australia has been incredible so far, and I’m so excited to now have the opportunity to sign my first professional contract with Melbourne City,” McGroarty said.
“I came here wanting to challenge myself, so to earn the opportunity to take the next step with a Club like City is really special.
“I can’t wait to get started and test myself at the professional level.”
Melbourne City Director of Football Michael Petrillo said McGroarty had earned her opportunity at the professional level through her performances.
“The impact Kelli has made since arriving in Australia has been impossible to ignore, and scoring 33 goals in her first NPLW season is an outstanding achievement,” Petrillo said.
“She’s earned this opportunity through her performances and gives us another dynamic option in attack. We’re excited to see what she can achieve in her first season as a professional.”
The signing of McGroarty represents City’s eighth foray into the transfer market following their double-winning campaign.
In one of the signings of the off-season, Matildas striker Cortnee Vine has joined the club following a stint in the United States whilst former Newcastle Jets striker Melina Ayres has also re-joined the club.
Meanwhile the club has also added key A-Leagues and International experience to the squad by signing the likes of Avaani Prakash, Taylor Ray, Aimee Medwin, Jessika Nash and Momo Hayashi.
Matricciani and his football staff have been forced to reshape their squad ahead of the upcoming campaign following a string of high profile exits, with Matildas ace and Golden Boot winner Holly McNamara among those to have left.
Furthermore, Championship winners Bryleeh Henry, Alexia Apostolakis, Laura Hughes, Ayana Aoyagi, Caitlin Karic, Chinaza Uchendu, Ellie Wilson, Leah Davidson and Taylor Otto have all moved on from the club.
Melbourne City kick off their Ninja A-League Premiership/Championship defence with an away clash against Wellington Phoenix, in what is a repeat of last season’s Grand Final.
