Vale Vickie Dean (née Kohen) (1956-2026)

Football Australia is deeply saddened by the passing of Vickie Dean (née Kohen), a pioneering member of Australia’s first women’s national football team.

Vickie was a member of the historic 1975 Australian Women’s National Team, now recognised as the First Matildas, which represented Australia at the inaugural Asian Women’s Championship in Hong Kong.

As part of this trailblazing squad, Vickie helped lay the foundations for women’s football in Australia at a time when opportunities for female players were limited and the game was still fighting for recognition and support.

The team’s achievements, including a third-place finish at the tournament, marked a defining moment in Australian football history and opened the door for generations of women and girls to follow.

In 2025, Football Australia formally recognised the 1975 squad as the First Matildas, acknowledging their pioneering contribution to the national team’s history and awarding the players official international recognition.

Beyond her contribution on the field, Vickie will be remembered for her warmth, courage and positive spirit. Despite facing significant health challenges in recent weeks, she demonstrated remarkable strength and optimism, qualities that endeared her to those who knew her.

Football Australia Chair Anter Isaac paid tribute to Vickie’s contribution to Australian football.

“Vickie was part of an extraordinary group of women who helped shape the future of Australian football. At a time when the women’s game received little of the recognition it deserved, she and her teammates proudly represented their country and helped create opportunities for future generations.

“The success and standing of the Matildas today is built on the courage, determination and achievements of pioneers like Vickie. Her contribution to our game’s history will never be forgotten.

“On behalf of Football Australia and the entire Australian football community, I extend our deepest condolences to Vickie’s family, friends and her fellow First Matildas. We honour her life, her contribution to football and the legacy she leaves behind.”

Football Australia joins the football community in mourning her loss and celebrating the life of a woman who will forever hold a special place in the history of Australian football.

Vale Vickie Dean (Kohen).