As we count down until Newcastle's A-League Women's season kicks off against Sydney at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on December 4, the Newcastle Herald has gone one-on-one with the Jets to find out more about each footballer.
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Gema Simon is Newcastle's co-captain. As a Jets original, the 31-year-old brings invaluable experience at this level and beyond.
Simon has 11 caps for the Matildas and has made an impressive 138 appearances in 13 seasons in the league.
She is a smart left-back who works hard defensively and looks dangerous pushing forward in attack.
NH: What was your first club, and how old were you?
GS: Argenton. I started playing when I was five.
NH: What do you do off the field?
GS: I coach with Socca Joeys. I love hanging out with my dog and I also like to hang out with my niece. This year I ran and organised the first NAIDOC clinic hosted by the Jets and Northern NNSW combined. I've been working with a few Indigenous artists and organisations to put designs together to go on my boots, which I'll wear throughout the season, and a pair with Newcastle Pride as well.
NH: What music is playing on game day?
GS: I don't have anything that I listen to specifically. I honestly could listen to anything. I could listen to country music before I play and it would be fine. Around the season I normally have a couple of songs that are go-tos. If I'm in the change rooms I will have my head phones on. Most of the girls will listen to the music on the speaker, but I'll have my headphones on and I'll be playing stick cricket on my phone.
NH: What television series, if any, are you addicted to?
GS: I'm watching Dynasty right now, but I just finished Blindspot. I watched everything you could possibly watch in lockdown.
NH: What can't you live without?
GS: My dog.
NH: Do you have any pre-match habits?
GS: I put the left of everything on first. So left shin pad, then right, left sock first, left boot.
Stay tuned for our next instalment - the tireless and fleet of foot Lauren Allan.
READ MORE:
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