The Gap FC is pumped to welcome home another junior product, Tara-Jade Garnsworthy, for the 2021 NPLW season.
Garnsworthy’s passion for the game began at age 11 where she joined a mixed U11 team at Toowong FC. Her first coach was Matt Palmer, the father of fellow Gators Senior NPLW player, Heidi Palmer. By U12s, Garnsworthy was recruited to join the Moreton Bay NPL U12 program before returning to The Gap and developing as a strong midfielder from 2014-2017.
In her third season of football, the talented youngster was selected for the QLD U13 and U15 National Youth teams before moving to Souths United to pursue international football and college opportunities under the guidance of Gary French. Whilst abroad, Garnsworthy played twice in the San Diego USA Surf Cup and in 2019, received her first NPL Women’s Senior squad call-up with Souths United. The same year, Garnsworthy was invited into the Brisbane Roar youth train-on program and spent the 2020 season with Lions FC U18s.
“I’m excited to be returning to my stomping grounds at The Gap Football Club and can’t wait to be a part of the new strong culture Head Coach Mick Gallo is establishing,” she said.
“I’m also looking forward to being a part of a team of passionate and like-minded players who are driven to perform, work hard, and support each other, as well as facing new challenges in the women’s league and developing myself at a club underpinned by quality values and passion. It’s been great to be surrounded by encouraging coaches and staff, on and off the field, who will make the Gap FC feel like home.”
Nurturing loyal club players like Garnsworthy is part of a long-term strategy for newly-appointed Gap FC Technical Director and Head Coach, Mick Gallo.
“Having played at The Gap and recently transitioning through Lions FC U18s, Tara-Jade (TJ) adds depth in our midfield and attacking unit for the 2021 season.
“A technically strong player, TJ’s hard-working attitude and desire to improve every session makes her perfectly suited for the playing style and culture we are establishing at The Gap. I am excited to help take her game to another level and she has been a stand out throughout the entire pre-season, pushing her case for senior football in 2021.”
The Gap FC welcomes Tara-Jade to the family and wishes her all the best for the 2021 season.
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