Emma Bates

Date of Birth: 21 Oct 2003 ( 22)

Club: Newcastle Jets FC

League: Ninja A-League (Australia)

Position: Centre Back (Defender)

Nationality: British-Australian

Player Profile

Emma is a highly technical playmaker. A central defender with an elite passing range and the ability to break lines. She is a modern day centre back who is very comfortable playing out from the back under pressure. Commanding in the air with strong positional awareness and game IQ. She shows maturity beyond her years; defensively astute and able to impact a game.

Pathway

A product of the Newcastle Jets Academy, Emma spent five years in their program prior to making a move overseas to play semi professional club football and US College ‘soccer’. After gaining valuable international experience stateside, she returned home after three years to rejoin the Newcastle Jets.

Professional Career

Emma signed her first professional deal with the Newcastle Jets ahead of the 2025-26 Ninja A League season. A stellar first season saw her take out the young player of the year ‘Rising Star’ award. Recognised as one of the brightest young players in the league, Emma has extended her stay at the Jets for a further two years.

International Pedigree

Emma’s elite potential was recognised early with a call up to the Australian Junior Matildas (Australia U16) program in 2019.

The Future

‘Female Academy Player of the Year’ in 2024-25, Ninja A League ‘Rising Star’ in 2025-26, saw Emma rewarded with an extended two-year professional deal at Newcastle Jets FC. As a dual British-Australian citizenship, with immense potential, Emma is seen as a young talent who is going places and is sure to establish herself as a dominant force at the absolute highest level.

All enquiries to be directed to SUMMIT 61 College Recruit.