The Lakes FC’s Gemma Layfield has been announced as the Queensland Community Female Player of the Year as part of Football Federation Australia’s (FFA) rebel Female Football Awards.
With her role at the club extending outside that of the football pitch to coaching and administration, Layfield dedicates hours upon hours to supporting, developing and crafting new opportunities for young women coming through the ranks.
Currently occupying the goal keeping position within the Lakes Brisbane Women’s Premier League (BWPL) side, Layfield hopes to continue to mentor current and new players.
“Coaching-wise, I’m really enjoying working with younger female keepers to build their technique, confidence and knowledge of the game,” Layfield said.
“It would be fantastic to do this on a bigger scale and provide even more junior females with goal keeper guidance and mentorship.”
Having spent the past five years at Annerley, her time there was filled with highlights including winning a premiership. Stepping away from the comfort of success, despite the accolades, was a major factor for Layfield who looks forward to the challenge of a new club in Lakes FC.
“This year marks our first year of the BWPL with Lakes FC and I’m loving the challenge so far,” said Layfield.
“I’m keen to see the team finish as high as possible and establish a presence and good foundations for future development as well as future years in the premier league.”
As player of the year, Gemma Layfield is a figure that young girls, women and coaches alike can look towards, based on the work ethic required to achieve her level of success.
To those younger girls eager to get a ball at their feet, Layfield says to simply “give it a go”.
“Team sports are incredibly valuable growing up and often result in building friendships that last a lifetime,” said Layfield.
“Being a part of a team, working hard and striving to achieve a goal every week can be very rewarding.”
“Football is a great outlet to meet new people, have fun yet remain competitive, which is what I love.”
Football Queensland congratulates Gemma Layfield on her achievement as a player, coach and mentor to young female footballers of today.
Words: Jacob Cocciolone