A football career at the top level of the women’s game is a great way to see many different parts of the world, just ask Vicky Bruce!
The 29-year-old defender, originally from North Carolina in the United States, has played in eight different countries in her senior career, and she will now have a ninth country to stamp in her passport after signing for the Western Sydney Wanderers Liberty A-League Women’s side for next season.
“I’ve always dreamt of playing in Australia!” the new recruit said after signing for the club; she is also relishing playing and living in the warm climate of Australia after spending many years in the cooler Nordic countries.
“The country itself is so unique, beautiful, and has such great weather. And I hear the people are even better! I’ve met a few Australians in my life and they have all been so genuinely kind, full of life, and just emit joy. So I cannot wait to be surrounded by that all of the time!”
Her career began back at home in the United States, where she represented the USA at youth level, as well as NCAA Division I side Davidson Wildcats for three years between 2012-2015, scoring four goals in 45 appearances.
Upon finishing her time at North Carolina, she then jetted off for Europe for short stints at Scottish side Rangers as well as in Iceland for Fimleikafélag Hafnarfjarðar.
She then moved to Cypriot side Apollon Limassol in 2017, where she made her first appearances in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, and also helped her side to win the League Title and Cup that season.
She was once again on the move the next year, spending half a season at Swedish side Möron BK, before them moving to prominent Danish side Fortuna Hjørring.
In Denmark, she experienced another league win as well as more experience in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, and after a season in the strong German Bundesliga in 2021, she then moved to English side Bristol Rovers before the 2022/23 season.
Her success followed her there, where she helped Bristol win the 2022/23 Women’s Championship season by a point, which meant the team was promoted to the Women’s Super League.
Now plying her trade for the first time in her senior career outside of Europe, she is very keen to share the experience of her European day’s with a young but talented Wanderers team.
“I want to make a difference on AND off the pitch for the Wanderers. Having played professionally abroad for over 7 years, I think I have a lot of useful advice and wisdom that I can share. I want to support my teammates in any way that I can and I hope I can help lead the team to a league title!”
Despite having never played in Australia previously, she has crossed paths with many players who are Australian or have previously spent time in the country, and it was something that helped sway her decision to move Down Under.
“I’ve heard nothing but good things about the A-Leagues. A lot of my friends, competitors, or former teammates have played in Australia and they raved about it. The league is known for having a high standard and it’s professionalism, so I’m really excited to be a part of that culture.”
She is also impressed by what the Wanderers are creating under coach Kat Smith, and is hoping to help add to last season’s improvement and turn it into one of success.
“I know the Wanderers are incredibly competitive and put up a good fight every game, and I absolutely love that the head coach is a woman. After having spoken with her on the phone, I’m thrilled to be a part of the healthy but competitive environment that she has created. On top of that, I’ve seen photos and videos of the Wanderers facilities, and they are immaculate! “
