Alexis Collins looks set to be the Hunter’s latest breakout star in the Ninja A-League.
The 16-year-old signed a scholarship deal with the Newcastle Jets’ Ninja A-League team for the 2024/25 season which she said was a shock.
“It has been a bit overwhelming but it is really exciting. It is something that I have wanted to do for ages but for that to actually be happening is crazy,” Collins said.
“It was so unexpected and sudden. [Jets coach] Ryan [Campbell] just said we are going to sign you. I was not expecting it at all.
“That’s the aim of the academy to get into the A-League squad so to finally get that opportunity is really exciting.”
To put the cherry on top, the youngster made her A-League debut for the Newcastle Jets in round one at home against Western Sydney Wanderers where they drew 2-2.
Collins said she was surprised to learn that she would be not only making her A-League debut but also in the starting 11 and made sure to soak up every moment of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“We got the official starting list the day before so it was very sudden and I had to prepare myself to start. It was so unexpected so I had to get my mental state right so that I could try and do my best,” Collins said.
“It was amazing, especially in front of a home crowd. I knew so many people in the stands and I think that motivated me to play well. I don't think there could have been a better place to do it. I know a lot of people came down from other areas to watch.
“To wear the badge and standing in the line before the game and walking out and everything. I felt so good wearing the Jets jersey and I wouldn’t want to do it with anyone else.
“To be able to represent Newcastle, especially in the first game of the season was really good.”
The attacker began her football journey with Mayfield United Junior Soccer Club and quickly made her way into the Newcastle Jets Academy before getting the call-up to the senior squad. She also recently represented Northern NSW Football at the National Youth Championships, where she played a key role in her team’s silver medal success.
Collins said the step up from girls to women’s professional football had been an adjustment but believed that it would help her football development in a big way.
“It is a lot higher intensity in the professional league. There are a lot of good players, physically and technically. It’s just at another level,” Collins said.
“It is something that I have to get used to but this experience will elevate my football which will be really good.
“Some of the attackers like Lara [Gooch] and Lauren [Allan] and Milan [Hammond] have helped. Just seeing how they play has helped me to try and become better. They are all really good players and I know I can learn a lot from them.
“I know some of those girls are still young but they have been in the environment for a few years so to get some advice and inspiration off them has been really good.”
On top of playing professional football, the 16-year-old is also juggling school, starting her HSC a couple of months ago.
“It is a bit difficult as I do try and do my best in my schoolwork and football,” Collins said.
“I am still figuring out the balance as year 12 has only just started. It is a bit difficult but it definitely is manageable. I try and fit both of those parts of my life in as best as I can.”
Collins hoped that she can forge a successful football career in the Ninja A-League and strive for the chance to represent Australia.
“If I could keep getting some minutes and help the team get to finals then that would be great,” Collins said.
“I want to play for Australia. I think that is the goal for anyone playing football. Playing for the country would be incredible.
“Hopefully I can learn from the Jets and become a really strong player in the A-League with all of these good players and I can learn from them before hopefully extending that to the national level. That would be my main goal for football and be a dream come true.”
