Sharon Egger – The definition of a Female Football Champion
When you think of Manly United there is one name that pops into everyone’s mind, Sharon Egger, better known around Cromer Park as Shaz.
Around 16-17 years ago Shaz joined Manly United after Phil Moss (Mossy) asked her to assist him with Coach Education and his Elite Training Program, which was a very small group held on Monday afternoons as this was before any skills acquisition programs (SAP), girls and boys, and Development Squads.
As a mother of two boys when Mossy asked Shaz to work with the girl’s youth league, she thought it was a bit odd, however looking back on it all she had to say was, “It was the best thing that ever happened to me”.
Since then, Shaz has now become Manly United’s Women’s Technical Director where she oversees our girl’s development, girls SAP, girls youth league (GYL) and women’s NPL squads.
However, Shaz’s dedication and work does not stop there as she also coaches in girls SAP and GYL.
“This is what I love most about being involved in the club, as you get to know the players and have a more hands-on role in helping develop their football.” Shaz said.
From the time Shaz started at Manly a lot has changed, especially with the growth of the female game and this is largely thanks her.
When Shaz joined the Manly family there were no full-time development squads, however shortly after Manly United became one of the first clubs in NSW to start a girl’s SAP. Since then, it has only grown now having four girls SAP teams as well as five development teams which underpin our girls SAP.
“GSAP has been a game changer for the development of female football in this country, particularly in NSW.
“I have been fortunate that every person I have reported to at MUFC has been incredibly supportive of any initiative that I have wanted to introduce which has enabled our program to grow and become one of the most successful female football programs in NSW.” Shaz said.
During her time Shaz has also helped girls grow and develop into incredible football players, including players such as Remy Siemsen and Ally Green, who are now playing for national, A-League and European teams.
However, Shaz loves all levels of the game and always strives to help players no matter what their goal is, and this is what makes her a true female football champion.
“I love seeing our girls get the opportunities they deserve in order to play the game they love at whatever level they strive to play at. Whether that be grassroots, NPL, state or national team level, we have all of those players in our program.”
