Rue ready to continue rapid rise

Rising star Cushla Rue on making to the move to Western Sydney this Liberty A-Leagues season and continuing her personal growth both on and off the field.

The 19-year-old is set to play in her second season of the domestic competition after being part of Wellington Phoenix’s inaugural squad in 2021/22.

Rue made her debut against Adelaide back in February and is ready to bring the lessons she’s learnt into the Wanderers environment this Liberty A-League season.

“I was grateful to have made my debut season with Wellington Phoenix and for the opportunity to compete and train in the A-League competition,” said Rue.

“The season gave me the opportunity to experience professional football and understand the commitment and resilience it takes on and off the pitch to ensure you’re at your best for each session.

“The key lesson I have taken out of last season is that every training session is hard and competitive, and you have to remain grounded and resilient, only focusing on the things you can control, striving for continuous improvement and never being satisfied.”

SAN JOSE, COSTA RICA – AUGUST 07: Cushla Rue of Australia poses during a portrait session on August 07, 2022 in San Jose, Costa Rica. (Photo by Buda Mendes – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Hailing from Bathurst, Rue is determined to continue her growth having recently returned back to Australia after competing at the recent FIFA Women’s Under 20s World Cup with the Young Matildas.

“A big goal for me this season is to continue my personal growth as a footballer,” explained Rue.

“Entering the season with a winning mentality and belief in myself, building on my confidence on the ball to create opportunities going forward and being a dangerous player in attack.

“I’m excited to play alongside a talented group of footballers and create a positive, respectful and professional team environment.

“With a team-first mentality, I will do whatever it takes to help us be successful and win games.”

With just over a month until the Wanderers 2022/23 Liberty A-League campaign commences, Rue has embraced the competitive environment created by new head coach Kat Smith.

“When the opportunity arose, I knew I would be entering a dedicated, challenging and competitive environment which will help me in striving for further development and improvement as a footballer,” said Rue.

“Especially with the experience of Kat Smith as head coach and the resources offered at the club.”

The Red & Black will open their Liberty A-League season with an away match in Tamworth against the Newcastle Jets on Saturday 26 November 2022. You will be able to stream the match live on Paramount+ and 10PLAY.