Proud Simmons calls time on stellar career
For the final time in her illustrious career, Trudy Simmons will run out with her Bulls FC Academy team mates on Sunday evening at Northbridge Oval.
One of the greatest goalkeepers that have graced the game in the National Premier League Women’s NSW competition will hang the gloves up after this weekend’s match against Sydney University.
“After 14 seasons playing senior football in this competition, it’s time, it feels right and when you know, you know,” Simmons said.
Simmons has been in fine form this season and many believe she still has much to give, saving an incredible amount of spot kicks.
“I’ve saved eight penalties in a row this season, I’ll put that down to experience and luck,” says a humble Simmons.
The Bulls veteran says it is time to give someone younger an opportunity to step in.
“I will definitely miss playing, the diving around and the people but it excites me to see the talent of some of these young players coming through who deserve opportunities so I am happy to step aside and watch them develop as players.”
Simmons has been with the Bulls for five seasons and has seen the club develop from promotion to the top tier to a grand final appearance last season.
“The Bulls have made the past 5 seasons so enjoyable and I can’t thank them enough for all the support they have given me in that time. It has been a privilege to be club captain and its going to be hard to say goodbye to them this Sunday.
“Weekends will definitely be a bit quieter now – I look forward to spending that time with my wife and family. I will still pop down to Northbridge Oval and watch them play next season. They are a great club and team and I know they’re only going to get bigger and better in the future,” Simmons said.
After such a successful career, performing at not only the top level in the state but also the nation, representing various Liberty A-League clubs, Simmons has had many inspirational figures that played pivotal roles in her career.
“There are so many people that have supported me along the way, too many to mention,” said Simmons.
“I have had some of the best coaches, managers and team mates who have become really great friends and I’ll miss seeing them every week.
“But of course, thank you to my wife Sam who has always supported me through the highs and lows, all the late nights training and the sore body.”
Despite her playing career coming to an end, Simmons will remain involved in football along with her full-time role as Football NSW’s Legacy Plan Development Office and coaching with the Young Matildas FIFA Women’s Under 20’s World Cup squad that will travel to Colombia for the major tournament next week.
“I am the goalkeeper coach for the Young Matildas and we are off to the Under 20’s World Cup next week.
“It’s going to be a great experience and we have a very talented team so I am excited to see them perform on the world stage.
“It’s been a challenge at times juggling playing and coaching, so I am excited to be able to focus on my coaching and see where that takes me.”
By Nikola Pozder.
