Rob Wielaert

Rob Wielaert is a centre back of Melbourne Heart. He was born on 29 December 1978 in Emmeloord, Netherlands.

Rob’s career took off in a local youth club, from where the footballer moved to the academy of PSV. In 1997, Wielaert penned his first senior two-year contract with the club, but he made only seven appearances for the Eindhoven side team during two seasons.

In 1999, Rob was offered a move to Den Bosch and promised a place in the main team, which meant he would get playing practice. That factor was vital for the back, and he decided to accept the offer the same year. The footballer sealed a two-year deal and netted two goals in 53 fixtures for the club during two years.

In 2001, the management of PSV changed their minds and invited Wielaert back. However, the results were very disappointing for the Dutchman, who featured only in three games in the 2001/2002 season.

In 2002, Rob got an opportunity to become an anchor player, when he put pen to paper of a four-year contract with NEC. The back adapted to the new atmosphere really soon, as he performed at the familiar position in the centre of defense. Wielaert took part in 145 matches and found the net 11 times for the club during four seasons, which became the best result in his career.

In 2006, Twente took an interest in the footballer’s stellar performance and decided to secure his services on a three-year deal. Rob made 83 appearances and fired three goals for ‘The Tukkers’ during his spell.

The management of Ajax could not pass by the opportunity to win the back over to their side and offered him a two-year contract, which was very promising for Wielaert’s career. However, the player made only 19 appearances in the 2009/2010 season and went on a season-long loan to Roda JC, where he became the pivot due to his experience and skills. Rob took part in 30 fixtures and went on to net one time during his temporary spell, which earned him an invitation to play for the club on permanent basis. From 2011 to 2013 Wielaert made 47 appearances for Roda JC. After that he moved to Australia and joined Melbourne Heart.