Matilda’s star Cortnee Vine signs for back-to-back domestic double winners Melbourne City on a one year deal. After spending the last 2 seasons in the United States playing for North Carolina Courage within the NWSL, she returned to the A-League for the first time since she helped lead her former club Sydney FC, beat her new team 1-0 in the 2023-24 Final.
Whilst her time over in the NWSL was brief and full of ups and downs, she made 23 appearances and scored twice during her time at Courage. Reflecting on her time with North Carolina Courage, Vine said
“My time in the NWSL has helped me grow both as a player and a person and I’m looking forward to bringing those experiences back to Australia.”
During her time aboard, Cortnee was suffering from severe anxiety. It got to the point where she couldn’t get out of bed.
“It was stopping me from doing life things. Being too anxious to go places, or to eat. That was especially hard as an athlete, knowing I needed to eat. That was probably my lowest”.
As an athlete, Cortnee believes it’s incredibly important to advocate for one’s mental health. With the help of her partner and North Carolina she received the support that she needed. In a recent interview Cortnee stated
“I’m excited for a whole new phase of my life, I feel in a good space again.”
Vine arrived back in Melbourne with 30 Matildas caps and three international goals to her name. Cortnee Vine came up through the Junior Matildas setup, playing a key role within the under 17’s and under 20’s squad before debuting for her country at the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, where Australia finished 5th. Vine then went on to represent Australia at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, scoring the winning penalty against France, sending the Matildas to the WWC Semi-Finals for the first time ever. Her vital role earned her a call up to the 2024 Paris Olympics squad, though she withdrew later due to personal matters.
Highly acclaimed for her explosive pace, direct running and ability to beat defenders one-on-one, Vine’s skills add a whole other dimension to Melbourne City’s squad depth. Alongside her immense prior experiences of playing within the A-League and NWSL, Vine enhances City’s play with all the strong experience and leadership qualities she brings home with her.
“City in itself has lots to offer as a club. In the Ninja A-League, they set the standard with the resources they provide and the professionalism of the club is a big reason why I’ve decided to sign.” – Cortnee Vine
This move has also brought Cortnee Vine back home to Australia and closer to family and friends, with the opportunity to play more football through increased game time. With another FIFA Women’s World Cup just around the corner, it’s no secret she is ready to get back into the Matildas setup.
Melbourne City’s Director of Football Michael Petrillo said attracting Vine back to Australia was a significant signing for the club.
“Her pace and direct ability to threaten opposition defences will add another dimension to our attack, while she also brings valuable experience from representing the Matildas on the biggest stage and competing in one of the world’s strongest leagues.”
Melbourne City FC also made several huge transfers ahead of the season, with young rising stars signing, such as Jessica Nash, Taylor Ray and Avanni Prakash, adding to their already stacked squad.
City will also compete in their 3rd consecutive season in the AFC Women’s Champions League. After missing out on competing for the title last year, falling short in the semi-final to Japan’s Tokyo Verdy Beleza, they’ll be hungrier than ever to bring home some silverware, showcasing their strength and the powerhouse team they are.
https://matildas.com.au/news/cortnee-vine-signs-melbourne-city-a-league-womens
https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/20260813-vine/
https://melbournecityfc.com.au/news/20260811-vine-signing/
https://aleagues.com.au/news/aleague-women-melbourne-city-sign-cortnee-vine/
https://matildas.com.au/news/cortnee-vine-bravely-opens-mental-health-and-goals-future
