What Matildas star Hayley Raso was really like at school
Matildas football star Hayley Raso has captured Australian hearts during the Women’s World Cup - including inspiring students at her old school. Read what her former teachers say about her
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Matildas’ football star Hayley Raso has captured the hearts of Australia throughout the FIFA Women’s World Cup - and is inspiring students at her old school.
The Gold Coast product scored her first World Cup goal against Canada in a tally of three so far, and has quickly become a household name.
Raso’s former school Emmanuel College opened its arms in support of the star ahead of Wednesday night’s semi-final against England.
Students dressed in green and gold and decorated in dress-up gear cheered on their alumnus. Retired Director of Sport David Weir recalled of her school days: “She was an outstanding all-rounder, not just a fantastic football player.
“She was a representative touch player and a representative athletics sprinter in the 100 metres. In fact she held the school 100 metres record for six years.
“I’m particularly proud and I think the school is too.”
Mr Weir was an instrumental part of Raso’s athletic career and has followed her professional journey since her first contract in grade 11.
“When she got a contract with Canberra United to play in the National League, that’s when we knew that we had a star on the rise,” he said.
“It’s been an absolute pleasure to watch her career.
“The penalty shootout the other night was probably the most emotional bit of sport I’d ever seen in my career.”
Reflecting on her promise as a teen, Weir pointed out the difference between Raso and her fellow young talents which made her stand out.
“She was the fastest student I’d ever seen or coached over 20 metres,” he said.
“She had a unique skill and a unique temperament on the field.”
Now that speed is making her one of the most influential figures in football, particularly to the next generation of Matildas.
“Having role models like her is fabulous for the school. These kids now have something to aspire to in the future,” Weir said.
“Women’s football is just going to grow exponentially in the next decade.”
Don’t miss all the action and analysis from last night’s semi-final - which came after deadline - now at goldcoastbulletin.com.au
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Originally published as What Matildas star Hayley Raso was really like at school
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