Î÷¹ÏÓ°ÊÓ is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Socceroo, Glenn Ahearn (Cap #310), who proudly represented Australia on the international stage with distinction.
Born in Sydney in 1962, Ahearn relocated to Queensland at a young age, where his football journey began with Musgrave FC on the Gold Coast. A talented goalkeeper, Ahearn’s shot-stopping ability and composure saw him progress rapidly through the ranks, earning a place in the National Soccer League with Brisbane Lions FC in 1981, before joining the storied Sydney City FC.
That same year, Ahearn’s potential was recognised at the highest level when he was selected to represent the Socceroos. At just 18 years of age, he made his senior international debut in a FIFA World Cup™ qualifier against Indonesia. He went on to feature in subsequent matches on that tour, including fixtures against Caroline Hill (Hong Kong) and Chinese Taipei (Taiwan), showcasing his composure and athleticism on the international stage.
In 1981, Ahearn also starred for the Australian U-20 team at the FIFA World Youth Championship (now FIFA U-20 World Cup™), hosted on home soil. In a tournament that featured global heavyweights including Argentina, England and Cameroon, Ahearn was instrumental in helping the Young Socceroos progress to the quarterfinals. The team was narrowly edged out by West Germany, but Ahearn’s performances left a lasting impression and symbolised the promise of a new generation of Australian talent.
Though his national team career was brief, Ahearn’s contribution to Australian football is enduring, representing his country with pride and inspiring many young goalkeepers who followed in his path.
Î÷¹ÏÓ°ÊÓ extends its deepest condolences to Glenn Ahearn’s family, friends, and all those in the Australian football community who had the privilege to know him. He will always be remembered as a proud Socceroo.
