Sydney FC’s two-time Championship and Premiership winning W-League Captain Teresa Polias is to take a break from football.
The 31-year old midfielder, who has played 11 times for the Matildas, will take a season out of the game having recently told family and friends that she intends to start a family.
NEWS: Find Out When The A-League & W-League Start
WATCH: Check Out Ally Green Brilliant Goal Of The Season
Polias, who has led the Sky Blues to five out of the last six W-League Grand Finals, says she feels the time is right.
“I love playing football and I love playing for and representing Sydney FC,” she said.
“But I feel now is the right time to take a break and concentrate on starting a family.
“This club and my team-mates mean so much to me and I’ve had a fantastic 13 years playing in the W-League.
“I’ll still be around this season and supporting the girls from the sidelines in every way I can.”
Polias is the W-League’s all-time leading appearance maker as well as Sydney FC’s only ten-year W-League player.
She will make a decision on a comeback to the W-League next year.
“This is such an exciting time in our family’s lives and I am looking forward to becoming a mother and enjoying that time.
“I’m not retiring from football, but I want to take this moment to experience and dedicate my life to others after 13 fabulous years playing this game.
“When the time is right, I’ll make a decision on my playing future.”
Head Coach Ante Juric supported Polias’ decision and wished her well.
“Teresa has been phenomenal for Sydney FC and for women’s football in this country,” he said.
“The work and time commitment she has given to football has been incredible and she has earned the right to take this time off for herself and for her family.
“We will miss her but I know she will still be around supporting when possible and we wish her all the best.
“Once she has decided her future, and if she wants to return, we will welcome her back with open arms.”
Polias has made 145 appearances for the Sky Blues including a W-League record 18 Finals appearances and seven Grand Finals.
The midfielder has found the back of the net three times for Sydney FC and also played three games in the International Women’s Club Championship.
Sydney FC expects to make further announcements on the make-up of the Sky Blues’ W-League squad in the coming days, with a large number of last season’s Premiership winning squad expected to return.
