Adelaide United is pleased to announce Adrian Stenta has been appointed Assistant Coach to Airton Andrioli for the Club’s Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s team on a two-year deal with an option of a third.
This appointment marks the next step in Stenta’s coaching journey after a transformative seven-year tenure in the Club’s Ninja A-League Women’s program, which he leaves in its strongest position to date.
In an emotional note, Stenta said:
“I’d like to thank the club for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to work within and lead the A League Women at Adelaide United. It’s been both a pleasure and a joy, the absolute highlight of my coaching journey.
“To all the amazing staff and players I have worked alongside these past 7 seasons, your hard work and dedication to your craft has never gone unnoticed and is very much appreciated. I’m extremely grateful for the time we shared together,” Stenta said.
“I’d also like to thank all those who supported us along the way, whether they be friends, family, ALW members and supporters in the stands or commercial partners who stood by the women’s team during my time in charge. I’m excited to begin the next stage of my growth and development as a football coach and for the opportunities that lay ahead for the ALW side at Adelaide United,” Stenta concluded.
Stenta was first appointed Head Coach of the Women’s side in 2020 and later became the program’s first full-time Head Coach in October 2023. Over 92 games in charge, he built a reputation as one of the most respected minds in the league, leading the Reds to their best ever season in 2024/25.
That campaign saw Adelaide finish third on the table with 45 points – triple their tally from the previous season – thanks to a 14-win regular season and a club-record 11-game unbeaten run. Stenta’s efforts were recognised with his second Ninja A-League Women’s Coach of the Year honour, adding to the same accolade he received in 2021/22.
Technical Director Ernest Faber praised Stenta’s elevation to the Men’s program as a natural progression.
“Adrian’s coaching knowledge, work ethic, and communication style are exceptional, and I’ve been a long-time admirer of how he brings the best out of people,” Faber said.
“He has earned this opportunity and will be an excellent support to Airton as we continue to build a strong and connected football philosophy across the Club. It’s also another important step in helping a South Australian coach grow within our system.”
Stenta departs the Women’s program having laid a powerful foundation for future success. His commitment to player development, team identity, and tactical growth has left a lasting legacy that the next generation of coaches and players will look to build on.
Adelaide United congratulates Adrian on his new role and thanks him for his commitment and contribution to the Ninja A-League Women’s program. Recruitment for a new Head Coach is now well underway.
