By Ben Gilby
Azzurri goalkeeper Dayle Schroeder believes that the team’s excellent start can lead to an even stronger finish as the squad continue to “grow together”.
The former Fremantle City shot-stopper said: “We have started very strong, right from the beginning. We’ve shown flashes of great attacking play and solid defence, but it’s all about translating that into consistency over the course of the season.
“We’re a team that’s growing together, and I’m confident we’ll keep improving as the season progresses. As a keeper, I’ve had to adapt to our defensive setup. I have a lot of freedom this season which test my decision making. I’ve had a few tough moments, but overall, I’m feeling more confident in my role and I have a lot of support from my teammates.
“Perth SC have a great atmosphere and we do a lot as a team and a club. This has made it very easy to settle in and builds a great club pride.”
Schroeder’s footballing journey has taken her from being an outfield player down in Bunbury to a top NPLW WA goalkeeper. It’s been a rapid growth which stands testament to her character and determination.
“I played a variety of sports when I was growing up but football was always the sport I wanted to play. Once I started there was no going back. I actually started as a defender playing with in a boy’s team for my school in Bunbury. I became a keeper in my second or third year playing.
“They had a boy in goal at the time who was struggling and I thought I could offer more stability. So I got the keeper role. I progressed playing locally moving from boys, to girls then women’s. It started getting more serious when I went away for School Girls for the first time. After experiencing that high quality football I wanted to go further.
“I joined South West Phoenix so I could play in State League Division One as it was a higher standard. I was able to really develop as a keeper. When I changed to Freo I went straight into the position of the number one NPLW keeper. It wasn’t easy to adjust to the pace and pressure, there were definitely some tough times, but it was enjoyable to verse harder opponents.
“Fremantle City helped push my football development, improving me as a keeper. After five seasons with Freo, I have moved to Perth SC. After this short time I feel like I have progressed even more because of the team. Personally, I want to keep pushing myself to be the best I can be, both for myself and for the team.”
Whilst last season was full of ups and downs for Fremantle City, Schroeder stood out as having arguably her most impressive season so far. Reflecting on that 2024 campaign, the goalkeeper said: “We struggled towards the start of the season then we really turned it around.
“I think that showed a lot of character. Throughout the 2024 preseason, I focused on honing my high dives and explosiveness. That really showed in my game as I could cover more of the goal and help Freo make the Top Four Cup.”
With the NPLW WA season now a third of the way through, the ladder is starting to settle a bit. It’s a ladder that shows some sides finding it harder to pick up wins than previously, and others looking to push into the Top Four conversation for the first time. It’s something that Schroder thinks is extremely exciting.
“I have felt that the league is growing strong each season and the gaps between the teams are decreasing. All games are equally important but this season they are more difficult. Each team tests one another. I believe this season it is more open for any team.”
With that being the case, Schroeder is clear in her mind about what the Azzurri need to do in order to bring NPLW WA or Top Four Cup silverware this season. It all comes down to consistency.
“We’ve shown that we have the talent and ability to compete at a high level, but we need to ensure we’re performing at our best in every match, minimising the errors or lack of concentration. I’m confident we can make a real impact in the league.”