Paul Wade

Paul Wade is one of Australia’s greatest and longest-serving Socceroos. Affectionately known as “Wadey,” he enjoyed a remarkable international career that included the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games, two World Cup campaigns (1990 and 1994), and one of football’s toughest assignments—marking Diego Maradona during Australia’s World Cup play-off against Argentina. Across a decade representing Australia, Paul captained the national team and played more than 118 games.

Born in Cheshire, England, he moved to Australia at age 11 and earned his Australian citizenship in 1984—the same year he debuted for the national “B” side and began his NSL career with Green Gully. Unusually for a player of his calibre, Paul spent his entire club career in Australia.

After retiring, Paul transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting, becoming a respected commentator across all major Australian networks, including coverage of the NSL, A-League, Socceroos, Matildas, and the 2006 and 2010 World Cups for SKY NEWS.

Paul released his autobiography Captain Socceroo in 1995. He openly shares his experience living with epilepsy and is an active supporter of Epilepsy Action Australia and Patron of the Cerebral Palsy International Sporting and Recreation Association (CPISRA).

Through his organisation Paul Wade Life Skills, he works extensively with schools, sporting clubs, young people at risk, and refugee communities across metropolitan, rural and remote Australia. Using stories, humour, and the jerseys collected throughout his career, Paul inspires audiences with practical life lessons and motivation.

A highly regarded keynote speaker, Paul also delivers team-building programs and regularly contributes as a commentator on ABC Radio for the A-League and Socceroos.