From Grassroots to Glory: Non-Fiction Books on the Matildas’ Rise

The Matildas have captured Australia's heart as more than just a football team - they represent resilience, inspiration, and something the whole country can get behind. Their journey has been documented in some brilliant non-fiction books, ranging from comprehensive histories of women's football in Australia to intimate memoirs that show what really happens behind the scenes - the struggles, the triumphs, and everything players give up along the way. If you're keen to read about stars like Sam Kerr and Mackenzie Arnold, or want to understand how women's football earned its place in the spotlight, these books give you an honest look at the Matildas' world.

Children’s Books

Football Superstars: Kerr Rules

Simon Mugford, ill., Dan Green

This unofficial graphic-style biography celebrates Sam Kerr’s journey from Aussie rules to global football fame, packed with stats, jokes, and cartoon commentary. It’s a fun, accessible read for football-loving kids and reluctant readers aged 6+

Football Legends: Mary Fowler

Kit Cross, Leigh Hedstrom

An illustrated biography for young readers that celebrates Fowler’s journey from Cairns to the global stage with the Matildas. With fun facts, career highlights, and inspiring milestones, it showcases her skill, resilience, and rising influence in women’s football.

Sam Kerr: Football Legends

Kit Cross, Leigh Hedstrom

This illustrated biography for young readers showcases Sam Kerr’s record-breaking career and global influence. With fun facts and inspiring milestones, it captures her rise from Aussie hopeful to international icon

The Amazing Sam Kerr: How did she get so good?

James Knight, ill., Jules Faber

This illustrated middle-grade biography explores Sam Kerr’s journey from backyard goals to Matildas captain and global superstar. With humor, inspiration, and sporty energy, it’s perfect for readers who prefer action-packed stories over classroom reads.

Interested in books by Sam Kerr? Check out this list!

Women in Great Aussie Sports: Women's Soccer

Tony La Torraca

This nonfiction guide explores the growth of women’s soccer in Australia, covering rules, tactics, and player profiles. With vibrant visuals and training tips, it encourages young readers to get involved.

Teens and up

Til It's Done

Matildas

This celebratory book captures the spirit and impact of the CommBank Matildas during the 2023 World Cup, spotlighting all 23 players. With poetic flair and national pride, it honors their grit, goals, and role in inspiring future generations

What Makes a Matilda

Matildas

This vibrant guide celebrates the spirit, history, and players of Australia’s national women’s team, from grassroots beginnings to World Cup glory. Packed with profiles, drills, and mindset tips, it’s a love letter to football and the Matildas’ legacy

MACCA: My Story so Far

Mackenzie Arnold

Mackenzie Arnold recounts her journey from the Gold Coast to Matildas legend, culminating in her heroic penalty shootout at the 2023 World Cup. Honest and empowering, this memoir blends sport, identity, and leadership with warmth and grit.

My Journey to the World Cup

Sam Kerr

A candid memoir for young readers that traces her path from backyard goals in Perth to global stardom with the Matildas. Blending personal stories, football insights, and motivational moments, it’s an inspiring read for those chasing big dreams on and off the pitch.

Mastering the Game: Biography of Sam Kerr

Gilbert Martin

From backyard goals in Perth to record-breaking stardom, Sam Kerr’s career is a masterclass in grit and flair. This biography captures her rise, leadership, and legacy as one of the most electrifying forwards in the sport.

Mastering the Game: Biography of Caitlin Foord

Gilbert Martin

Caitlin Foord’s biography charts her rise from Aussie youth leagues to global stardom with Arsenal and the Matildas. It’s a celebration of her speed, versatility, and impact on the international stage, aimed at inspiring the next generation.

Adult / Reference Titles

Never Say Die: The Hundred-Year Overnight Success of Australian Women’s Football

Fiona Crawford, Lee McGowan

This sweeping history traces the century-long struggle and triumph of Australian women's football, from grassroots passion to global recognition. Through interviews and archival storytelling, it celebrates resilience, community, and the Matildas’ rise despite systemic barriers.

Encyclopedia of Matildas World Cup Edition 2023

Andrew Howe, Greg Werner

This 220-page reference profiles every Matildas player through March 2023, with caps, goals, match listings, and concise bios. It’s a data-rich, fan-facing archive perfect for researchers, educators, and Aussie football diehards

Rise of the Matildas: Inside the Women's World Cup Campaign

Fiona Crawford

Crawford chronicles the Matildas’ 2023 World Cup run, weaving interviews with players, fans, and officials into a broader story of gender, race, and representation. It’s a powerful reflection on sport’s ability to unite and transform

The Matilda Effect

Fiona Crawford

This powerful nonfiction account traces the Matildas’ decades-long fight for recognition, equal pay, and respect in global football. With vivid storytelling and social justice framing, it’s essential reading for those interested in sport, activism, and gender equity

Want to discover more women's soccer books? Visit the main list here.