United going back to future
GOLD Coast United have gone back to the future and tapped into their A-League history to claim their latest recruiting prize.
Midfielder Bronti Hodgkinson is the latest to sign with the NPLW club, completing a neat career circle that began eight years ago for the now 16-year-old.
With father Brett “Hodgie’’ Hodgkinson working as logistics manager for the illfated United A-League franchise in 2010, Bronti had the opportunity to walk on to Cbus Super Stadium before a match with Socceroos Michael Thwaite and Jason Culina.
Thwaite, who has linked back with United for 2019, returned to present Hodgkinson with her playing kit for next season.
“This was one of my fondest memories, I was eight years old walking out on to Cbus Stadium with the Gold Coast United players for the Brisbane Roar clash in 2010,” the Year 11 Emmanuel College student recalled.
For Thwaite the opportunity to be at Bronti’s signing for the club was a special one.
“I’ve known ‘Hodgie’ since he first picked my family and I up at the airport back in 2009 when GCU first started,” he said.
“Since then we’ve remained good friends and I know he is well respected in the football community.
BRONTI HELPED US WITHIN OUR TEAM ENVIRONMENT FILLING UP WATER BOTTLES ... SHE HAS CERTAINLY DONE HER APPRENTICESHIP MICHAEL THWAITE
“Bronti helped us within our team environment filling up water bottles and collecting balls so she has certainly done her apprenticeship.
“She’s always had the talent and now it’s her time to shine as part of our fantastic women’s team.”
Hodgkinson has spent previous seasons playing with the Queensland Academy of Sport and Roar youth teams including helping Brisbane to this year’s NPLW championship.
“Bronti is a young player who’s ability and potential I have been aware of for a few years now,” United coach Michael Cook said.
“Great technically with the ability to keep the ball in small areas, she will help us control possession in the middle of the field.”
As for Hodgkinson, she can’t wait to get underway.
“I am very excited for the season and have loved how welcome I have been made to feel by the team and GCU staff,” she said.
“I hope to really enjoy my football here and to keep improving and developing as a player and to learn from Michael and the girls.”