Steve Hayes. Canberra football export

NSW Football Federation highlighted former Canberra and Belconnen Blue Devils player Steve Hayes in this weeks newsletter. Steve is another example of a Canberra player who has to move from the city to better himself in a football sense.

Steve Hayes is loving life in the Wollongong FC midfield at the moment.
The 23-year-old electrician, who was raised in Canberra,.......

Steve Hayes is loving life in the Wollongong FC midfield at the moment.
The 23-year-old electrician, who was raised in Canberra, is currently adding the spark to his side in the TeleChoice Premier League.

“We are on a bit of a roll at the moment so hopefully we can keep it going,” he said. “I am enjoying playing for Wollongong and it’s good under [coach] John Turner.

“All the boys have pulled together well and the morale within the team couldn’t be better at the moment.”

Given that Hayes grew up in the nation’s capital it was inevitable that he would end up at the Australian Institute of Sport after going through the various development programs in the ACT.

After a brief stint at the AIS, Hayes started his career in the TeleChoice Premier League with the Belconnen Blue Devils before moving to Wollongong FC where he has now been for three years.

Hayes, who prefers the central midfield position, also enjoys going forward in an attacking role.

“I love going forward, so whenever I can I go forward in a game,” he stated.

With his contract expiring at the end of the season Hayes, like many other players, would love the chance to show his worth in the A-League.

“Obviously I would love to play in the A-League,” he said. “In the end, wherever football takes me that’s where I want to go.

“Yes, I am definitely concerned about the limited number of A-League teams and therefore limited A-League spots to fill.

“However, you really have to be on top of your game if you are going to get a chance in that competition.

“It’s all about getting that chance, getting your foot in the door and then taking it with two hands if it comes along.

“I am waiting for my chance and, hopefully, it comes around soon and if it does I’ll certainly take it.”

by Joe Russo