Dutch heritage
Aaron Frank Mooy, originally named Aaron Kuhlman, was born on 15 September 1990 in Sydney, Australia. His surname was changed by his Dutch mother after her divorce. Mooy had minimal contact with his father, only meeting him briefly at age 14 to sign forms for a Dutch passport.
Growing up, Mooy developed a passion for football, especially watching Premier League matches and idolising David Beckham. His mother registered him with the Carlingford Redbacks, where his German stepfather, Alan Todd, eventually coached his team. Mooy’s early football journey saw him play for various clubs, including the Carlingford Redbacks, Granville Magpies, Blacktown City, and Northern Spirit. He trained at the New South Wales Institute of Sport (NSWIS) and attended Westfields Sports High School.
At 15, Mooy left Australia to pursue his football ambitions abroad.
Leef, lach, liefde, the Dutch words for live, laugh and love are also etched on his skin and they are his creed. His name, which his grandfather Australian-ised from Mooij not long after he disembarked from the ship that left the Netherlands for Australia a generation ago, acts as a crest he has worked hard to honour.
Career
Mooy’s professional career began with St Mirren in Scotland. He returned to Australia in 2012 to play for Western Sydney Wanderers and moved to Melbourne City two years later. In 2016, Mooy signed with Manchester City but was immediately loaned to Huddersfield Town, where he played a crucial role in their promotion to the Premier League.
Despite his tough exterior, Mooy is a “quiet soul” according to his mother. He preferred celebrating his 21st birthday with his 15-year-old brother Alex rather than partying. His mother and grandmother have always been significant in his life, often driving him to training sessions.
In June 2017, Mooy signed permanently with Huddersfield Town. He later moved to Brighton & Hove Albion in January 2020 and subsequently transferred to Shanghai SIPG in China on 28 August 2020.
Mooy debuted for the Australian national team in 2012, earning 57 caps and scoring five goals. He participated in two FIFA World Cups, in 2018 and 2022, contributing significantly to Australia’s successful campaign in Qatar.
Retirement
At 32, Mooy announced his retirement from professional football. He expressed gratitude for fulfilling his dream of playing for Australia and forming lifelong friendships. Socceroos Head Coach Graham Arnold and Captain Mathew Ryan praised Mooy’s impact on the team and his leadership by example.
Mooy’s career spanned various leagues and countries, leaving a lasting legacy in Australian football.
Video: Best of luck in your retirement, Aaron Mooy – Celtic TV
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