Article: Jeremy Magan
Photo: Anthony Caffery Photography

It is safe to say that the Jessie Rasschaert had a very successful 2019 season.

Leading Belconnen United to yet another NPLW title, the centreback was awarded the Player of the Year title, a rare occasion for a defender.

Her incredible form was rewarded with a call-up by Heather Garriock to play with Canberra United in Westfield W-League. It was all a dream come true. 

Now back in Belconnen for the short 2020 season, the defender wants to use that experience of top tier football as well as her new role as vice-captain to help the team win more NPLW silverware. 

Under Garriock, she was repositioned as a fullback, a position she now holds with the Blue Devils. 

“Learning and playing in a different position help my whole understanding of the game," she said. “I have improved in every aspect of my game. 

“Coming from the W-League gives me better insight into the little things that can make us better.

"This will be my fifth year at the club, so I am one of the most experienced now.

“We have a lot of new faces in the team and are getting used to how each other plays. I keep my eyes on these details and try to coach the younger girls, help them improve the way I did.”

This year, Belconnen have dominated the league, with 33 goals scored and only conceded one. That one goal did cost them two points, with a 1-1 draw against Gungahlin.

“We were extremely disappointed but at the same time when we scored, we celebrated like it was the grand final,” Rasschaert said. 

“Scoring at the very end is a credit to us giving 110% to get that last goal and get that point. We did not want to lose!”

She is ready to help her team get all three points after scoring her third goal of the season against Wagga. “Last weekend was my first goal with my feet,” she laughed. “The corners are how I tend to score goals."

On Sunday, Canberra Croatia will be another big test.

“It’s one of those games,” Rasschaert smiles. “There is history, it’s always them and us at the end of the season. It is going to be tough, they are loaded with talent and experience. Deakin is going to be our hardest game yet.”

The Blue Devil knows too well the importance of the game this year.

“Given it is a short season, dropping any more points might take away the premiership," she said. "If we switch off for a second, it could be gone.”

It is no surprise who she expects to win the title this season.

“We can win it," she said, brimming with confidence. "We do need to improve and I think it is 100% within us to get the trophy.”

Match Details |
NPLW Round 7
Canberra Croatia vs Belconnen United
Kick-off 12:15pm, 30 August 2020
Deakin Stadium