07-starsDomestically and internationally, 2012 was a big year for several players.  Whether shining in the W-League in a champion side, tearing it up in overseas competitions, scoring spectacular goals against the Olympic champs or marking the world's best, several senior and U20s players made their mark in 2012.  

After slow starts to the season Lisa De Vanna and Kyah Simon both powered through the year.  Lisa helped Swedish side Linköpings finish third in the Damallsvenskan and then went on to light up the stage in the international season.  Meanwhile Simon headed for her first overseas stint with the Boston Breakers where she demonstrated her goalscoring prowess to finish up second in the scoring and points in the WPSL Elite competition.

In the W-League Sally Shipard dominated in a dominant team with her stable influence and vision a treat as one of the key factors in Canberra United’s championship run.  A turn in the Frauen Bundesliga saw the 25 year old help Bayer Leverkusen avoid relegation but a knee injury has meant that the latter part of 2012 has been a frustrating one for the playmaker.  However another playmaker has grown in stature with Teresa Polias playing beautifully in 2012 whether at local level, in the NSW Women’s Premier League, or stepping it up for Sydney FC and the Matildas.

Of the young brigade Steph Catley, Brianna Davey, Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso have been the standouts during the W-League.  Catley, Davey and Foord have also been regular performers for the Matildas in another year of rejuvenation for the national team.

Don't forget to get your vote in for the TWG Player of the Year