Adelaide United have appointed former Reds defender Maruschka Waldus as assistant coach of the club’s Ninja A-League side.
Waldus, 32, played 49 games for Adelaide between 2021 and 2024, and won the Dianne Alagich Medal as the club’s best and fairest player in her debut campaign with the Reds.
A fan favourite among the Reds faithful, Waldus has returned after a one-season absence as an assistant to new head coach Theo Tsiounis, becoming the Adelaide’s first full-time assistant in the women’s program.
Upon the confirmation of her new role as Adelaide United assistant, Waldus expressed her gratitude to the Reds for granting her the chance to contribute to the club off the field.
“Adelaide has always been a special place for me, and I feel very grateful to be returning in this new role,” Waldus said.
“I built so many meaningful relationships here as a player, and I’m looking forward to giving back to the club in a different way.
“I can’t wait to work alongside Theo and the team, share my experience, and continue learning as I grow in my coaching career.”
‘A huge opportunity’ – Theo Tsiounis on Adelaide United appointment
The retired defender returns to Adelaide with her UEFA B coaching license, bolstered by the experience of serving as video analyst for the Netherlands at the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Brazil in 2024.
Adelaide United’s Head of Football Marius Zanin labelled Waldus’ appointment as a “significant” moment for the club.
“This is a significant statement by our club to welcome back a true Adelaide United legend as our first full-time women’s assistant coach,” Zanin said.
“Maruschka’s appointment is not only an investment into our football program but also vital support for Theo as head coach.”
“We welcome her back with open arms – she brings invaluable knowledge, experience, and leadership, and we’re excited to help her grow her coaching career with us.”
