Brisbane Roar full back Angela Beard has been named the November nominee for the 2015/16 W-League Young Footballer of the Year award.
The 18 year old was nominated for her strong performances for Brisbane Roar this season in the left back position.
It is a position the Young Matildas representative assumed at the start of the season, following the news that injury would sideline Vedrana Popovic for 2015/16.
"This is only my second season in the Westfield W-League and I feel very privileged to be recognised at this early stage of my career," she said.
"To be in the running for such a prestigious award is a real inspiration, not only to me, but for all the talented young footballers in the Westfield W-League."
As is the story with many full backs, Beard started her football playing further up the park on the wing or centrally. Beard transitioned to the defence first with the U17s national team and then the Young Matildas.
Beard's performances at the back have demonstrated her strong tackling skills and growing game sense against more experienced opponents. Going forward, her pace has added to the Roar attack.
As the November nominee, NAB has donated a $1,500 equipment pack and $1,000 in a NAB Community Saver Account to Angela Beard's chosen junior club, Eastern Suburbs FC.
The overall winner of the NAB Young Footballer of the Year 2015/16 Award will receive a $10,000 personal investment portfolio, along with a NAB Private Client Manager to assist with a range of banking and financial services.
The NAB Young Footballer of the Year 2015/16 will be announced on 26 April 2016 at the A-League and W-League 2015/16 Awards Night.
NAB Young Footballer of the Year Nominees
- October: Larissa Crummer - Melbourne City - Forward
- November: Angela Beard - Brisbane Roar - Defender