Dream Debut for Young Goalkeeper Baylee Broomhead
Not many players have had an National Premier Leagues Women’s NSW debut so impressive that they’ve made the ‘Team of the Week’, but that’s exactly what happened for rising 17-year-old Sydney University SFC goalkeeper Baylee Broomhead.
When Broomhead was told she would be making her first grade debut for Sydney University SFC she was so nervous that she felt sick.
But after an incredible Round 6 performance against the Blacktown Spartans, it’s clear that the nerves were no trouble on gameday for this talented young goalkeeper.
“Honestly in my stomach I felt a bit sick and all those other little nerves, but during the game I wasn’t too fussed.”
The young gun keeper was tasked with making several big saves, including a number of one-on-one challenges , but she was not phased despite the pressure.
“I honestly just thought I was doing what I always do, I usually play a high line and that kind of worked for we that game.
“I always try to stay in focus and stay in the game.”
The only goal conceded was from the penalty spot in what was an emphatic 4-1 win over the Blacktown Spartans.
Making her performances this season, even more remarkable is that Broomhead is struggling with repeated shoulder dislocations, which will likely lead to surgery when the season finishes.
“I’ve dislocated my shoulder quite a lot, and I went through 12 weeks of rehab last year so I’ll need surgery at the end of the year unfortunately because it has been popping out again.
“At the moment it’s alright because I can deal with it and just strap it and hopefully it doesn’t pop out in games.”
The goalkeeper has been with Sydney University for five seasons now and has been impressed with how the club has assisted in her gradual development, especially being coached by Amy Shepherd and now Central Coast Mariners W-League coach Emily Husband.
“The environment and some of the coaches, it just keeps making me want to go back.”
The result against the Spartans was big for Sydney University SFC who have just 2 wins so far in what’s been a disappointing start to the season.
Including Broomhead, it’s a very youthful squad this season for the students, which has the young goalkeeper excited for the future.
“I think there are some girls who have been playing up at such a young age for so long, which do still have quite a bit of experience.
“But I think the younger squad is quite good going forward.”
Broomhead plans to take it one step at a time in her football career, looking to make the most of any opportunities which present themselves.
The well spoken footballer is incredibly grateful for all the support from Sydney University SFC and hopes to have some more big performances for the club in 2024.
-By Annabelle Banfield
