Soccer: Diederichsen named State's top goalkeeper
A former Kununurra woman has been honoured for soccer skills in the State league after she was crowned Goalkeeper of the Year in early October.
Maya Diederichsen, who plays for Queens Park Soccer Club, was named the best goalkeeper in the highest grade of Women's State League soccer.
The 25-year-old, in her seventh season at the club, is one of the top goalkeepers in WA.
"Each game, the ref gives a point for the best goalkeeper and chooses the best three players," Diederichsen said.
"I had an awesome season and played some good games. It's such a team sport but I feel like I really helped to lift the club this year."
Diederichsen was also named as a reserve for Perth Glory in 2008 and 2009.
While her school days at Kununurra District High School seem far away, she said her memories of playing soccer with her siblings on her parents' farm were still some of her favourites.
Born to parents of German descent, Ute and Hans, she was one of four children, including twin brothers Phillip and Timo.
Running alongside her big sister Tekla, the two girls would give the boys a run for their money on the field.
"I was a bit of a tomboy growing up," Diederichsen said.
"We had a big backyard and I always played the game with my brothers and their friends.
"Dad built us a goal in the yard because we were always outside."
Diederichsen moved to Perth as a boarding student in Year 10, but spent the past 10 years between Perth and Kununurra. Her career as a goalie started in her physical education classes in Perth.
"We had a rotation system at school, and I had my turn and they went 'Hey, she's good. She can stay there'," Diederichsen said.
"After some coaching, I ended up pretty good."
Queens Park Soccer Club played 21 games this year and Diederichsen said she was surprised to win after missing five games to travel overseas with her family.
Her teammate, Stacey Learmont, was awarded best and fairest in the State League.
For those wanting to pursue a sport at a high level, Diederichsen has a little advice.
"Train hard. Be disciplined. Find a club that you enjoy the people as well as the sport," she said.
