Adelaide United can confirm Isabel Hodgson will depart the Club following 11 seasons with the Reds.
A proud South Australian and one of the most respected figures in the Club’s women’s program, Hodgson leaves Adelaide United having made 120 appearances across 11 seasons, scoring 10 goals.
Her longevity and contribution place her third on the Club’s all-time appearances list, underlining her status as one of Adelaide United’s most experienced and influential players.
Hodgson’s football journey began locally with Fulham United, before progressing through the Football South Australia NTC program from Under 12s to Under 15s. She made her Adelaide United debut at just 17 years of age in 2013, quickly establishing herself as a talented and committed young player.
After furthering her development in the United States with East Tennessee State University, Hodgson returned to the Reds for the 2018/19 campaign and made an immediate impact, featuring in seven matches and scoring a dramatic equaliser in a thrilling 3-2 win over Newcastle Jets.
Across her time with Adelaide United, Hodgson’s versatility was a defining feature of her game. Equally comfortable in defence or higher up the pitch, she contributed as both a defender and winger, adapting to the needs of the team while consistently setting high standards through her professionalism, leadership and commitment.
Ahead of the 2021/22 season, Hodgson was appointed Adelaide United Captain, a role that reflected her standing within the playing group and broader women’s program.
Off the pitch, Hodgson has also been an important figure for the game in South Australia. In 2022, she was named an ambassador for Football South Australia’s FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 Legacy Plan and Committee and has been a proud and visible supporter of Adelaide United’s Pride Cup since its launch in February 2022.
Hodgson said leaving Adelaide United was difficult but reflected with pride on more than a decade representing her hometown Club.
“My 11th season at the Reds was the most challenging of my career and I did not want my time at the club to end while I still feel I have more to give,” she said.
“But the previous 10 gave me such joy and pride to represent and lead my hometown team. We became a consistent force in the A-League which seemed an impossible task during some of my early years at the club. To see the young girls and boys wearing red in the crowd inspired by our successes will stick with me forever.
“I have loved playing with so many teammates over the years, but a special mention to the girls I have been with for most of my 120+ games – Dylan, Condon, Hodgy and Chels – who were always loyal to me and to the Reds, helping spark change at the club.”
Izzy continued: “I also want to thank the coaches who played such an important role in my journey. To Ross Aloisi, thank you for giving me my first opportunity at United and believing in me from the beginning. And to Adrian Stenta, thank you for your constant support and for trusting me with the honour of captaining this club.
“Lastly, but certainly not least, I want to thank the Red Army. In my time, we have played in front of A-League record crowds and also a few smaller numbers. But every single game, fans in red were there to cheer for us, lift us up, offer encouragement, hugs and even handmade gifts post-game. I still have a lot of them at home!
“I can’t thank you all enough for accepting me, believing in me and cheering for me, and I hope you get to enjoy the ultimate success of cheering for South Australian talent in the A-League.”
Adelaide United CEO, Nathan Kosmina said: “Izzy’s contribution to Adelaide United over a significant period cannot be understated.
“Izzy has played a key role in the in the growth our A-League Women’s program, on and off-the field, and she departs with the respect and appreciation of everyone connected to the club, past and present.
“We thank Izzy for her commitment and service to the club and wish her all the very best for the future.”
Football Director, Mitch van Gelekom said: “Izzy’s contribution to Adelaide United has been outstanding. To represent one Club across 11 seasons is a rare achievement and speaks to her loyalty, resilience and commitment.
“She has been an important figure in the growth of our women’s program, both through her performances and the example she has set as a leader. On behalf of everyone at the Club, I sincerely thank Izzy for everything she has given to Adelaide United and wish her all the very best for the future.”
Hodgson departs Adelaide United as one of the Club’s most enduring figures, with her impact across more than a decade in red to remain an important part of the women’s program’s history.
