Jets CEO shares pivotal moment that led to historic Premiership triumph

Mark Milligan, head coach of the Newcastle Jets, has shared the pivotal factor behind the club’s groundbreaking Premiership-winning season.

The Jets solidified their victory by playing to a 2-2 draw against Melbourne Victory last Friday night, combined with an unexpected home loss for Auckland FC against the Mariners, granting Newcastle their inaugural Isuzu UTE A-League Premiers Plate.

Already crowned champions of the 2025 Australia Cup, Milligan’s team has now secured a second trophy in what is shaping up to be an extraordinary first season as a head coach for him and his coaching staff.

This Premiership success places the Jets in contention to become the first team ever to clinch the Australia Cup, Premiership, and Championship within a single season.

The former Socceroo and A-Leagues standout featured on this week’s edition of Total A-Leagues, where he identified a critical moment that he feels was instrumental in his team’s success.

BIG NEWS: A-Leagues Champion and former Socceroo to conclude 16-year career

“Since early on in my aspirations of becoming a Head Coach, I’ve had a clear vision of what I believed would succeed in Australian football,” Milligan reflected during a chat with Vince Rugari, Tommy Oar, and Daniel McBreen.

Catch the complete interview with Mark Milligan below!

“I had an idea of a playing style that I thought would work well. Once I began my discussions with the Jets, I focused on the players who were going to remain in the squad.

“We made some significant changes early in the season, releasing around nine or ten players, and that marked the beginning of my transformation process.”

“Ultimately, I brought in four new players. The rest of the squad was filled by observing our youth team and watching talented young players in action.”

“When considering the playing style, once I evaluated the squad and those who were destined to remain, like Wilma (Daniel Wilmering) and Thomas Aquilina during the opening weeks of the season, it became clearer.”

FINAL ROUND PREVIEW: Everything you need to know for Round 26 of the Isuzu UTE A-League

“While I have a distinct philosophy on the game, I never sought to overlook my players or deny them the chance to demonstrate their abilities and continue developing to align with my vision. This is a gradual process, and there were many doubts raised as we progressed.

“Even during a successful cup run, early season setbacks made some question our approach and whether our style was suitable for the players available.”

“I hold a firm belief in how football should be approached in Australia—not just to achieve success but to create an entertaining spectacle. That conviction allowed me to stay true to my vision.”

“Once the players recognised that this philosophy was unwavering, we began to see their development, engagement, and ownership of our game.”