W-League Goalkeeper of the Year. NWSL Goalkeeper of the Year. Newest USA international. Aubrey Bledsoe is a lot of things, but ochestra conductor probably wouldn't be your first bet.
Back in October, Bledsoe - who was already a household name among W-League fans - had shot to stardom for her sensational NWSL performances.
In an interview with the Washington Town Courier, she gave fascinating insights into how she views goalkeeping, and how she became so damn good at it so quickly.
“I think of myself as the conductor of an orchestra,” Bledsoe said. “I see everything and watch it flow together.
"(Being a goalkeeper) requires a lot. Physically, you have to be one of the most fit and tactically you have to know the roles of every position.
"I’ve learned a lot mentally this year; you have to be able to bounce back from things really quickly. You can’t make any judgements in the game, you just have to try and stay in that flow state.”
She's now firmly back in the spotlight Down Under, ready to take charge of Sydney's title defence after her phenomenal performances last season were key to Sydney's Championship win from third-place in the league.
Now there will likely be a whole new level of attention on Bledsoe from keen-eyed US international fans, after the keeper's unsurprising call up to their latest squad.
She's one of a growing number of American goalkeepers who have made their name Down Under before going on to NWSL success. Former Newcastle shot-stopper Britt Eckerstrom also excelled in the competition this season.
It creates a tough ask for would-be NPLW talent to break through into the competition, but the highlights Sydney FC fans get to witness alone from one of the world's best goalkeepers is worth the price of admission.
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