It was a special moment for Manly United on the weekend, as long-time pathway players Sarah Whelan and Mackenzie Jeffs pulled on the First Grade jersey for the first time during the club’s NPL Women’s 2026 season opener.
For both players, the moment marked the culmination of years of dedication within the Manly United pathway. Whelan and Jeffs first joined the club’s Girls Skills Acquisition Program (GSAP) in 2018 as Under 10s, beginning a journey that has seen them grow through the ranks and develop into exciting attacking prospects.
Whelan joined the program from BTH Raiders, while Jeffs arrived from Manly Vale FC. Since those early days, both players have become known for their technical quality, speed and intelligence in the attacking third – as well as a trademark Manly United work ethic that sees them giving everything when they’re on the pitch.
Whelan: A Manly Girl Through and Through
Sarah’s commitment to improvement has long stood out within the squad. A driven and determined player, she has become well known at Cromer Park for her relentless approach to training, regularly staying long after sessions have finished to continue working on her game. A lifelong Manly supporter, she has often cited former Manly United player Sienna Dale as a footballing inspiration.
Jeffs: Energy and Tenacity
‘Macca’ brings a similarly determined mindset to the group. An athletic and intelligent forward, she combines sharp movement with a fierce competitive edge. Her willingness to ask questions, learn and push herself at every session has helped shape her development, while her tenacity and reading of the game make her a constant challenge for opposition defenders.
Both debuts are a testament to their individual dedication and the strength of Manly United’s development pathway, which has supported their growth from young players in the system to First Grade footballers.
Everyone at the club congratulates Sarah and Mackenzie on their First Grade caps and looks forward to seeing their continued growth in the seasons to come.
