Welsh expat Emily Sutcliffe might be a newcomer to Geelong but she’s already making her mark, especially in soccer circles. The Geelong Galaxy United FC captain and junior mentor spoke to Luke Voogt after winning council’s Women in Community Life Leading Gender Equality in Sport Award recently.
What is your connection to Geelong?
I play centre midfield for Geelong Galaxy United. As head coach of Football Star Academy Geelong, I lead clinics for girls at local schools and community groups. We train ages two to 15. One of the biggest barriers for girls is they find it intimidating to play with boys, especially if they’re beginners. Some girls are quite happy being in the mixed class but I think it’s quite important that we provide opportunities for everybody.
What drew you to Geelong?
I moved to Newtown in February 2019 after getting the job as head coach at the academy. The only time I had gone to Geelong was when I went for a drive down the Great Ocean Road, like most tourists. But towards Christmas 2018 I came to check the city out. I think it was a nice sunny day. I was walking around Eastern Beach and we sat around on the pier for lunch. It just felt so summery – a lot different to Wales. I noticed straight away the difference from Melbourne. Here you’ve got people saying “hi” when you walk past and they would stop for a chat when I was walking down the Barwon River.
How was winning the award?
It was a bit of a surprise when I got the call saying I had been nominated. I still don’t know who nominated me. There’s a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes so it feels really good to be recognised for that. As a coach you’re kind of a role model for the kids, and you want them to think anything is possible, so long as they put their minds to it. I always tell them to never give up on what they want to do. Even if it’s as simple as not giving up on a tackle or a ball going out. I want to make them good human beings off the pitch as well as good footballers.
How has girls soccer changed in your lifetime?
When I grew up, I played with my brothers and dad in the back garden and up at until under 13s I was playing with the boys. But there are a lot more competitions for girls now.
What is your favourite local spot?
I quite enjoy going down Pakington Street. There are a few nice cafes down there. I also like Wah Bah down the end of the pier.
What is something people might not know about you?
I can say the longest train station name in Welsh: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.
