AUT’s support for Auckland FC
As Auckland FC’s exclusive university partner AUT is incredibly proud of the team becoming the 2025/2026 A-League Champions.
In front of a packed-out stadium of 28,374 Aucklanders, Auckland FC delivered a 1-0 win over Sydney FC making them the first New Zealand football team to win the A-League.
AUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Damon Salesa says the team’s achievement is thrilling for Auckland and he is delighted that the university has been working in partnership with the club since its journey began two years ago.
“AUT has supported this dynamic, young club right from the beginning and to see them rise to the top this quickly has been incredible to witness. We are incredibly proud to be supporting one of Australasia’s most exciting teams and AUT congratulates them on a remarkable accomplishment,” Professor Salesa said.
“Our visibility and presence as their exclusive university partner at Go Media Stadium this season has reinforced the position the University holds in the heart of Auckland’s football landscape as a leading sports university.”
Twelve AUT alumni hold professional roles behind the scenes at Auckland FC, holding positions spanning marketing, partnerships, communications, events and sports science.
Two of those alumni recently received the prestigious Auckland FC Chairman’s Award at the club’s 2025/26 special awards ceremony.
They are Partnerships Activation Manager (and Bachelor of Sport and Recreation graduate) Amy Walker, and Sport Scientist (and Master of Sport, Exercise and Health graduate) Tseard Theo van der Mei (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Te Aupouri, Dutch).
“AUT has long held a reputation for producing graduates with sought-after, innovative skills and knowledge. In Auckland FC we have yet another top sports organisation who has snapped up our graduates for their real-world talent, further reinforcing AUT’s position as New Zealand’s premier sports university,” Professor Salesa said.
Commenting on her accomplishment, Amy Walker says, “It was an honour to receive this award. Being part of Auckland FC is really special to me. I love the people and the role the club plays in bringing Aucklanders together through sport. It’s also a great moment to reflect on my journey over the past year, from starting as an intern straight out of AUT to now receiving this award. I’m proud of that progress and excited to keep growing and working hard.”
Tseard Theo van der Mei says, “It’s been an amazing two seasons with Auckland FC. This opportunity first came through my internship during my master’s degree at AUT, and since then I’ve been fortunate to transition into a full-time role as a Strength & Conditioning Coach and Sport Scientist with the team.
“It’s been a huge blessing to grow in this environment and continue developing my craft, especially while working alongside such talented practitioners within our department. Being recognised for my work and receiving this award is a real privilege, and I’m excited to continue this journey with the club.”
AUT has strengthened its position as one of the world’s leading sports universities, climbing 15 places to 23rd globally for sports-related subjects in the prestigious QS World University Rankings by Subject.