Ella Tonkin reflects on a season of transformation, leadership, and belief as Adelaide United gear up for a record-breaking crowd and their second-ever Finals appearance.
Ella Tonkin has always bled red — but this season, she’s lived and led it like never before.
Thrust into the captain’s armband in what has become a record-breaking year for Adelaide United, Tonkin has been the heartbeat of a side that’s gone from last place to Finals football. And now, on the eve of the biggest game of her career, she’s calling on all South Australians to pack out Coopers Stadium.
“It would mean the absolute world to get as many people there as possible,” Tonkin said. “Even if you’re not a football fan — if you’re a South Australian, we want you there. To break a record and win our first final would be insane.”
Adelaide is eyeing a crowd of over 5,159 — the club’s current standalone attendance record, set in 2021. With ticket sales already soaring, Sunday’s match against Western United is on track to rewrite the history books once more.
Tonkin spoke to Channel Seven Adelaide’s Robbie Cornthwaite about the team’s remarkable turnaround — from wooden spooners to Finals contenders.
“I’d describe this season as record-breaking,” she said. “We tripled our points from last year and finished third. That’s a true testament to the character of this Club.”
Her loyalty to her hometown team has been rewarded in full. Despite off-season offers to go elsewhere, Tonkin stayed — and hasn’t missed a minute on the pitch.
“To play every minute and be part of Finals for my hometown club means the absolute world to me,” she said. “I’m so glad I stayed. This team is my second family.”
Taking on the captaincy wasn’t something Tonkin had expected, but it’s a role she’s embraced with pride.
“It kind of got thrusted onto me, but it’s been an absolute honour,” she said. “I’ve had amazing role models in Izzy and Dylan to learn from — it’s something I definitely don’t take for granted.”
With Adelaide set to host only its second-ever Finals match, the mood in camp is clear: excitement, belief, and a deep desire to make history.
Last time out at Coopers was pretty special
— Adelaide United (@AdelaideUnited) April 23, 2025
And this Sunday's Elimination Final will be even better — be therehttps://t.co/br6oNhrd19 pic.twitter.com/Kfvahy92uM
“We’ve known for about a month that we were going to be part of this game,” Tonkin said. “The anticipation has built, and now we’re ready to throw everything at it.”
The Reds face Western United — a side they’ve only recently beaten for the first time — and Tonkin believes that breakthrough gives them an edge.
“They’ve always been tough, but that win gives us a lot of confidence,” she said. “If we can model our game like that, hopefully we’ll find success again on Sunday.”
And with star striker Erin back in contention, Adelaide’s attack is ready to fire.
“She brings so much energy and experience. It’ll be so exciting to unleash her again.”
As Tonkin dreams of lifting silverware — a vision she admits has crept into her thoughts — she’s keeping focused on the task at hand.
“Your mind does wander, but it’s important to stay focused on Sunday,” she said. “Take it step by step, and let’s see what this team can do.”
With the Club’s most successful season on the line, a record crowd looming, and a passionate leader at the helm, Adelaide United Women are ready to rise — again.
