Football West CEO Jamie Harnwell has announced the introduction of the Angela Murphy Medal, which will be presented to the player of the match in the NPLWA – Women’s Top Four Cup final from 2026.
Mr Harnwell made the announcement at the 2025 NPLWA Awards at the Ritz-Carlton in a tribute speech to the long-time Football West administrator, who died earlier this year.
Angela's mother Jane, father John and sister Sally attended the Awards.
Angela worked in the sport for 27 years and her passing in July brought thousands of messages of condolence from across the WA football community.
"From joining the Soccer Administration of WA as a receptionist in 1996 to signing off at Football West on 24 November 2023, her contribution to the round ball game in WA was immeasurable," Mr Harnwell said.
"She became the backbone of Football West operations, managing tens of thousands of fixtures each year for our numerous competitions. Her knowledge of the game, the clubs, and the complexity of fixturing was unparalleled. But it was her empathy and readiness to go the extra yard that made the real difference. She knew our clubs were run by volunteers and wanted everything to proceed as smoothly as possible.
"Ange was equally supportive in the office, particularly with new members of the team. We all leaned on her knowledge and experience at one time or another. If anyone had been there and done it, it was Ange.
"Despite not being a player, Ange embodied everything we value in our game. Teamwork, dedication, resilience, and genuine care for others. She showed that the most valuable members of any team aren’t always the ones on the pitch.
"So tonight, we want to honour that spirit in a way that will live on.
"From 2026, Football West will introduce the Angela Murphy Medal, which will be awarded to the Player of the Match in the NPLWA – Women’s Top Four Cup final.
"It is a lasting tribute to someone who gave so much of herself to the game. A person who made football better simply by being part of it."
