Melbourne City FC can confirm that defender Rebekah Stott will depart the Club to pursue an opportunity abroad.
A member of City’s inaugural Women’s side, the Football Ferns international has played a significant role in the Club’s ongoing success, securing four championship trophies and two premierships during her five seasons in Melbourne.
Stott holds the record, alongside Steph Catley, for the most appearances made for Melbourne City’s W-League side, having represented the Club on 62 occasions. Within that time, she has become a fan favourite and an integral member of the squad, combing her defensive qualities and consistency with her ability to waltz past opponents with ease.
Paying tribute to Stott’s contribution to the Club, Melbourne City FC Director of Football Michael Petrillo said: “Rebekah has been an invaluable member of our Club from the very beginning.”
“Whilst we are disappointed to lose a player of Rebekah’s quality, we are also very happy and proud that we have been able to contribute to her success on the field.
“Rebekah is, outside of our Club, perhaps the most underrated player in the W-League. However, we know that she has been one of the elite defenders in the W-League for many years now,” Petrillo added.
“Not only is she very talented, Rebekah is a great team person, selfless and willing to always put her body on the line. Along with this toughness she is also technically very good and for all these reasons she will be almost impossible to replace.
“We wish her every success in the next phase of her career and she leaves knowing that she will always be a part of the Melbourne City family and will be welcomed back at any time.”
Reflecting on her time at Melbourne City, Rebekah Stott said: “I’m so thankful for my time at Melbourne City FC. I would like to thank the City Football Group, the Club, my incredible teammates, the staff and the fans for making my time at City so memorable.”
“I’m really proud of what we were able to achieve together as a team and believe we really set the standard in the league over the past five seasons. My time at City has enabled me to grow both as a footballer and as a person and I’ve made memories and friendships that I will cherish for a lifetime.
“It’s been an honour to represent this Club from the start – a club that truly believes in the growth and professionalism of Women’s football – and to hold a special record [most appearances] with one of my best friends Steph.”
Melbourne City FC would like to wish Stotty the very best for the next chapter in her career.
