Paramount/10 Launch Clare Polkinghorne Medal | Television tonight

Paramount+ and Network 10, in partnership with Ninja, have launched Matildas’ Clare Polkinghorne Medal.

The medal reflects the strength, growth and global influence of the A-League Women competition – a competition that continues to shape world-class talent.

It will be presented at the 2026 A League Grand Finale.

Clare Polkinghorne said: “It is an incredible honor to have a medal named after me, especially in a competition that has shaped so many players, including my own career. A-League Women the competition continues to produce world-class talent, and I’m thrilled that this award puts the spotlight on the players who are moving the game forward every week. I am also proud that, thanks to Ninja, the medal will give something back to grassroots football, because that is where every journey begins.”

Adam Cush, Director of Sport Paramount ANZ said: “Clare Polkinghorne is synonymous with football in Australia through her achievements at both club and international level. It is an exciting new addition for this season to have her as an ambassador for a medal that champions the achievements of players in this star competition.”

Zoe Wendland, Ninja Marketing and Communications Director, said: “We are proud to support the Ninja A-League Women competition as it continues to grow. If our involvement helps increase visibility or keep great players in the game, it’s a win for everyone.

“As the presenting partner of both the Clare Polkinghorne Medal and the Alex Tobin Medal, we can celebrate excellence around the world A Leagueto support the players, clubs and communities who help the game grow, both on and off the pitch.”

Clare Polkinghorne is Australia’s most top-scoring international footballer, having represented the country 169 times in an extraordinary career. She has been a defining presence on the national team for almost two decades. At club level, Polkinghorne spent more than a decade with Brisbane Roar, establishing herself as one of the league’s most reliable and decorated defenders.

The Clare Polkinghorne Medal mirrors the Alex Tobin Medal, also presented by Ninja, which honors the breakthrough player in the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s competition. The winners of both the men’s and women’s medals for the 2025/26 season will each receive $30,000 and will nominate a junior football club to receive $10,000 worth of products as part of Ninja’s support for grassroots football.

The Ninja A-League Women’s competition remains a vital route to the international stage and one of the most successful women’s competitions in developing top talent. Many of Australia’s biggest football names spent formative years in the league before becoming stars of global football. The introduction of the Clare Polkinghorne Medal celebrates this tradition of excellence and rewards those players who continue to raise the standard of the competition.

The award is part of Paramount’s ongoing commitment to elevating women’s sports, supporting soccer communities and honoring the players who inspire fans across the country.