Matthew Kemp (soccer)

Matthew Kemp
Matthew Kemp
Born	August 8, 1980 (age 46); Australia
Occupation	Soccer player (retired)
Years active	1998–2012
Known for	Playing for Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United in the A-League; Australian international debut in 2010

Matthew Allan Kemp (born 8 August 1980) is a retired Australian soccer player whose last club was Eastern United. He concluded his A-League career in May 2012. Throughout his time with Melbourne Victory, Kemp appeared in 79 matches, with his final game played against the Greek side Olympiacos.

Club career

In 1998, Kemp became part of the AIS before moving on to Adelaide City in the now-defunct NSL. After completing one season there, he signed with the Italian team SPAL 1907. The following season saw him return to Australia where he rejoined Adelaide City, subsequently transferring to Adelaide United and participating in the inaugural two seasons of the A-League. On 11 April 2007, Kemp secured a two-year deal with Melbourne Victory.

Although initially met with skepticism by fans, Kemp quickly proved himself as a vital defender for the team. During Melbourne Victory’s 2008 Asian Champions League run, he was recognized as one of their top performers, drawing on his earlier experience in the same tournament while with Adelaide. In the 2009–10 campaign, Kemp showcased versatility by contributing both in defense and attack, operating across wide and central midfield positions. He netted his first goal for Victory against Central Coast Mariners and later scored again coming off the bench against Wellington on Australia Day.

On 5 February 2010, during a fixture against North Queensland Fury at Etihad Stadium, Kemp sustained a significant knee injury that required him to leave the pitch.

At age 31, Kemp declared his retirement from the A-League on 21 May 2012, attributing his decision to focus on future career opportunities and family commitments rather than injury issues. He conveyed appreciation towards Melbourne Victory and opted not to return to Canberra, instead continuing his playing career at West Adelaide SC where he held a leadership role.

International career

Kemp made his senior international debut for the Socceroos on 7 January 2010 in an AFC Asian Cup qualifying match against Kuwait held in Kuwait City.