The City of Sydney has bestowed its highest civic honour upon the Sydney FC Women’s team, with Lord Mayor Clover Moore AO presenting the club with the prestigious Key to the City.
The honour, awarded at a ceremony held in Town Hall today, recognizes the team’s outstanding achievements, including their recent Grand Final victory and fifth Championship, as well as their pivotal role in advancing women’s sports.
The award was inspired by the heartfelt request of two 12-year-old fans, Jennifer Nilsson-Poder and Lila Maywald, who wrote to the Lord Mayor urging her to recognize the team’s extraordinary contributions to sport and the community.
Their letters captured the impact of Sydney FC Women’s success on young fans and female athletes alike, prompting Lord Mayor Moore to bestow the Key to the City in recognition of the team’s accomplishments and ability to inspire young girls.
In her address, Lord Mayor Clover Moore praised the Sydney FC Women for their dedication and impact on the community.
“Your perseverance and success have contributed to the growth of women’s football, and you are lighting the path for future generations of female athletes,” she said.
“Bestowing the Key to the City is the highest honour we can confer, and I’m delighted to do so.
“This Key reflects the City of Sydney’s pride in you, not just as Champions of the game but as Champions of change, empowering women and girls to believe in their limitless potential.
“Thank you for being leaders, for inspiring the next generation, and for making history.
“It is my great privilege to bestow the Sydney FC Women with the Key to the City.”
Captain Natalie Tobin accepted the Key on behalf of Sydney FC and expressed the team’s gratitude for the recognition.
“Receiving the Key to the City is such an incredible honour, not only for me but for everyone in the Sydney FC family,” Tobin said.
“We are proud to represent this city and to inspire young girls like Jennifer and Lila to chase their dreams and believe in their potential.
“This recognition strengthens our commitment to continue pushing boundaries, both on and off the field, and to ensure a bright future for women’s sport in Australia.”
Only 12 keys to the City of Sydney have been awarded in the past 20 years by the Lord Mayor and this is the first to any sporting organisation in the last three years.
Sydney FC Chairman Scott Barlow also reflected on the impact of the club’s success, particularly on young girls and women in football.
“The Sydney FC Women’s team have broken records, set new standards and have inspired a whole new generation of young female footballers,” he said.
“Their positive impact extends far beyond the pitch and their achievements will no doubt inspire stars of the future for both Sydney FC and the Matildas.”
Jennifer and Lila were presented with signed Sydney FC jerseys by the players and were also offered the chance to visit Sydney FC’s Sky Park training centre.
The Key to the City symbolizes the Sydney FC Women’s role in advancing gender equality in sport and encouraging young athletes to pursue their dreams.
The Sydney FC Women’s team now joins an elite group of recipients who have demonstrated exceptional contributions to the city and its community.
