Feature Image: Graeme Furlong
Senior NTC graduate Hayley Richmond has sealed a return to Box Hill United for the upcoming 2017 NPLW Victoria season.
The speedster spent two seasons within the junior set-up at Wembley Park in 2012-13, before progressing through to the State Development Program under the care of Joe Montemurro.
She made her senior debut at the back end of the 2014 season in a 2-0 win over a Cairnlea FC outfit that suffered relegation to State League 1 that year.
Richmond secured a first-team berth in 2015, where her pace down the flanks caused trouble for opposition fullbacks whether deployed up the park as a winger or in a more reserved fullback role after the departure of Liv Ellis to the Boroondara Eagles mid-season.
The youngster exploded out of the blocks in the Senior NTC’s 2016 campaign, enjoying a breakout season as a right-back and forging a reputation as one of the league’s most promising players.
Her form saw her called up for the Young Matildas squad – as recently as last month for Australia’s AFC U-19’s qualification campaign alongside teammates Melindaj Barbieri and Ash Lefevre – as well as a spot training with Melbourne City W-League under the watchful eye of her former coach Montemurro.
New head coach Bobby McGuinness is looking to utilise Richmond’s versatility in both defence and midfield, and has welcomed her return with open arms.
“Hayley is a versatile player who is keen to improve and who will fit in nicely into our squad,” he said.
“She is already part of the Young Matildas and adds enthusiasm and quality to the group. We welcome her back to Box Hill.”
It’s the first signing of the off-season for Box Hill United as McGuinness and co. look towards an improved 2017 for the former Victorian powerhouses.