It was announced today that defender Clare Hunt has signed with Canberra United for the upcoming W-League season.
The Cowra-born defender has played for Canberra United Academy, the Junior Matildas and the Young Matildas. Most recently, her Sydney University side was crowned Premiers of the NSW NPL Women’s competition.
After first being signed by Canberra United in 2016, Hunt is keen to put the green kit on once again next season.
“I am extremely grateful to be given the opportunity to play in the W-League again, and I am excited to develop and excel under the guidance of Vicki Linton, alongside some quality footballers.”
But for Clare Hunt, football hasn’t always been an easy journey.
Hunt started playing football at age five for Grenfell Junior Soccer Club in Central-West NSW. As she got older, she represented NSW Country and was part of the Young Matildas squad. Whilst living in Cowra, she travelled a five-hour round trip to play for the Canberra United Academy.
Living so far away, Hunt’s been no stranger to long car trips and sacrifices for football.
“ … the time spent travelling to training in Canberra, which was two-and-a-half hours away, multiple times a week, during high school, was difficult to balance.”
Hunt recognises the Canberra United Academy as a successful pathway, which has led to her representing NSW in the NTC Challenge, as well as talent identification for the W-League and Young Matildas.
However, long trips to training haven’t been the hardest part of this rising star’s football journey.
Just when Hunt was beginning to make a name for herself, she tore her anterior cruciate ligament – that was three years ago, and she’s had four back-to-back knee operations since.
“There were extended periods of time where I didn’t play or train, and never truly had consistent game-time or an opportunity to build playing confidence.”
However, Hunt’s optimism, determination and dedication to the game has shone through now more than ever. Most of the 21-year-old’s rehab has been completed whilst she was signed to Sydney University, and this year she made her return to the pitch. Although Hunt acknowledges that the past few years haven’t been easy, she’s been resilient and optimistic throughout.
“I feel this experience has allowed me to grow into a more well-rounded individual. It’s given me an opportunity to focus on other strengths and passions outside of football … to simply play football is something I have worked incredibly hard for, and with this comes an enormous appreciation and joy when I play.”
She’s also very thankful to the people who have supported her through the tough times so far, including her family, friends, and football club.
“Despite not playing for a substantial period while being at the club [Sydney University], there was not a time where I didn’t feel supported by strength and conditioning coaches, physiotherapists, coaches and managing staff.
“The support from my family to allow me to pursue my football and education to the greatest extent has given me an appreciation of what it takes to be committed, and how it feels to have my passions and goals supported.”
Despite previous setbacks, Hunt is excited to get another season of W-League under her belt for Canberra United – and we can’t wait to see her back in action.
