Q1 – Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am 18 and unfortunately still on my L’s. Finding the courage to go for my P’s very soon!!! I’m pretty short, but it has its advantages. I’m in year 12 at Red Bend in Forbes. When I finish school I would love to go to university and study to be a paramedic. I guess you could call me an adrenaline junkie. I love sport and I’m a passionate Rural Fire Service fire fighter.

Q2 – Tell us how you first got involved in the sport of soccer (football) and what was your first involvement with the game in Parkes?

I first got involved in soccer, playing with the Parkes Association, when I was 4. I wanted to show that girls can be as good as boys. But I was more interested in picking my nose than scoring goals. Yes I’ll admit it. I then started playing again when I was 9 in the Under 12’s competition. My opponents were twice the size of me, and I fell over quite a lot, but I was determined to keep going. I kept playing with the same few girls throughout under 14’s and 16’s and with a dedicated coach, and lots of half time oranges we became undefeated premiers in 2010.

Q3 – What do you enjoy about the sport?

Soccer has always been a sport I have enjoyed. Its great being out on the field with a team you can trust and work well with. Winning is something that shouldn’t matter. It’s all about building friendships, while gaining skill and technique and having fun.

Q4 – What has been your highest level you have represented the sport in as a junior? And how would you compare it to the local competition?

Lachlan representative soccer is the highest level I played as a junior. It’s a lot different to a local competition as it can get quite competitive, there is lots of training and a lot of commitment. But it was definitely a lot of fun and a great way to build on my confidence and skill.

Q5 – What is your favourite memory of playing representative football (soccer)?

There are so many, but probably playing against different districts, experiencing the competiveness and the McDonalds visits after carnivals were always a highlight for everyone.

Q6 – Who is someone that has the biggest influence on you to strive to do your best in the sport?

Not a soccer player, but retired olympic swimmer Ian Thorpe is a great role model. He has been through a lot both physically and emotionally but still manages to come out fighting with a positive attitude. I think that he is someone that influences me to do my best in soccer.

Q7–What is your favourite position to play?

I like playing up front either as a centre forward or a wing. I am left footed, so the left wing suits me well. Quick and accurate passes up front is always great. Shots into the top corners of the goal are even better. I also enjoy playing as a half. I like to slow down the play a little and look around for passes and some strategic play.

Q8 – What do you like to do outside of the game?

I love being part of the Rural Fire Service. I have been a member since I was 12 and as soon as I turned 16 I was ready to get on the trucks. It’s something that I am very passionate about. I love fighting fires and helping people in need. It can get dangerous and scary. Putting your life on the line to fight a blaze takes guts. But I enjoy it. I recently assisted with the Lithgow fires last year. It was a very challenging but rewarding experience. I love being part of a service that helps others.

Q9 – How would you rate to structure of the Open Ladies competition in 2014?

There seems to be a lot of really good teams this year. I was put in charge of organising my team and its been stressful. Half of my players from last year have gone to uni, so it’s hard to build a team. I like that of all the teams play each other and then they are graded. It seems to be a fair way of doing it. It lets all teams to experience the strength of the opposition and then allows a winner from each grade. I think it’s great.

Q10 – Do you follow the Hyundai A-League? If so, which team do you support?

Yes I do. I think all the teams involved have a lot of skill and technique. I’d love to go watch a game one day. But I support Sydney FC and the Central Coast Mariners.