As we count down until Newcastle's A-League Women's season kicks off against Sydney at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on December 4, the Newcastle Herald has gone one-on-one with the Jets to find out more about each footballer.
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Sophie Harding got her first taste of national league last season when the Jets gave the 22-year-old her breakthrough debut opportunity.
The lightning-quick forward looked dangerous as she slipped beyond opposition defences. She featured in 11 of the Jets' 12 matches last campaign, starting three times, and wants to cement a first 11 position this season.
Jets coach Ash Wilson describes her as "a real weapon in terms of her power and speed".
"She's fast. She's powerful. She's someone who's coming back with another year of experience under her belt at this level," Wilson said.
"What she gives you in terms of pace and ability to get in behind is something that's very exciting."
READ MORE: Long-serving Jets driven for success
NH: What was your first club, and how old were you?
SH: Harbord Football Club when I was four.
NH: What do you do off the field?
SH: I'm a support worker in youth and disability and I'm studying to be a youth worker. I always wanted to do something with young people and I love what I do right now, supporting young people.
NH: What TV series are you addicted to?
SH: I've been watching Blindspot and love all crime series. I love Law and Order and I love Gossip Girl. I've watched that four times.
NH: What can't you live without?
SH: Coffee. And I love the gym and I love Italian food.
NH: What music, if any, is playing on game day?
SH: I definitely like to have music. Any throwback songs, singalong songs. Sunny [Franco] always gets me going with ABBA. I like rap music. But probably 80s throwbacks.
NH: Do you have any pre-match habits?
SH: I like to always have pasta the night before a game but there's not really anything on game day.
Our next instalment is one of the most experienced players in A-League Women - Jets co-captain Gema Simon.
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Renee Valentine
Renee Valentine is a sports journalist with more than 20 years of experience in Newcastle. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of sportswomen in the media. Got a sports story, email Renee at r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au
Renee Valentine is a sports journalist with more than 20 years of experience in Newcastle. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of sportswomen in the media. Got a sports story, email Renee at r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au
