AFC Toronto is excited to announce the club's first-ever player signing, Jade Kovacevic, a celebrated striker known for her unparalleled goal-scoring ability and leadership on the pitch. Kovacevic, 30, who hails from Acton, Ontario, brings with her an extraordinary track record from both domestic and international competition, including setting the all-time goal-scoring record in League1 Ontario for both men and women, with over 170~ goals and is also the first player to sign with the Northern Super League.
"We’re thrilled to have Jade as our first signing," said Marko Milanovic, Head Coach of AFC Toronto. "She’s always trained like a professional, even without a domestic league to play in, and it’s that commitment, her goal-scoring ability and leadership that will help us establish our presence in the league.”
Kovacevic represented Canada in both the U17 and U20 World Cups. At Louisiana State University, she excelled as an All-SEC Second Team and All-Freshman First Team selection. Her talents then took her overseas, where she played professionally in Italy and Hungary, becoming the top scorer for Roma Calcio Femminile in just half a season and making history as the first player to score for GYŐRI ETO FC.
Throughout her career, Kovacevic has consistently demonstrated excellence, earning five Golden Boot awards and four MVP titles during her time with FC London in League1 Ontario. Her goal-scoring prowess has made her a standout both in Canada and internationally. Now, she returns to Canada to make her mark with AFC Toronto, bringing her exceptional talent and relentless drive to a team eager to compete at the highest level of women’s professional soccer domestically.
“I've been waiting for this opportunity for 6 years, and now that it's finally here and we can all see it - it changes everything for players like me and those just starting their careers,” said Kovacevic. “Canada has so much untapped talent, and for too long, women have had to leave home to chase their soccer dreams. Now, with AFC Toronto and the Northern Super League, there’s finally a clear pathway for women and girls to stay, grow, and thrive right here in the GTA. I couldn't be more excited to kick off on home soil and to see how this will shape the future of women’s soccer in Canada.”
As AFC Toronto continues to build its roster, the addition of Kovacevic signals a bold and ambitious start for the club.
We’re thrilled to welcome Jade as the first signing for AFC Toronto and the Northern Super League,” said Diana Matheson, Chief Growth Officer. “Her story is one of the many that Canadians will come to know and love as clubs sign and announce players leading up to kickoff next April. Jade’s leadership and her connection to the community will be an asset to AFC Toronto.”
More player announcements are set to be released over the coming months and into the new year as the team prepares for its debut season.