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Matildas Goalkeeper Katelyn Smith Nominated for WA Sports Star Award

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 14:22 GMT by The West Australian
      Locales: AUSTRALIA, UNITED KINGDOM

Perth, Western Australia - February 3, 2026 - Katelyn Smith, the Fremantle-born goalkeeper who played a pivotal role in the Matildas' historic run at the FIFA Women's World Cup, has been nominated for the prestigious WA Sports Star Award. The nomination recognizes not only her outstanding performance on the world stage but also the growing impact of Western Australian athletes in national and international sporting arenas.

Smith's journey to this nomination is a testament to years of dedication and unwavering commitment. Rising through the ranks of Western Australian soccer, she earned her first national squad call-up in 2021. Initially a squad member, Smith quickly proved her worth, demonstrating exceptional reflexes, command of her area, and a steely composure under pressure. By 2025, she had solidified her position as the Matildas' first-choice goalkeeper, becoming a fan favorite and an integral part of the team's success.

The 2025 FIFA Women's World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, saw the Matildas capture the nation's heart. Smith was a constant presence between the posts, providing a reassuring backbone to the defense. While the entire team shone, it was Smith's performance in the knockout stages that truly set her apart. She made crucial saves throughout the tournament, consistently denying opponents and keeping the Matildas in contention.

However, it was the final itself that cemented Smith's place in Australian sporting folklore. Facing a formidable opponent, the match went to a nail-biting penalty shootout. With the score tied and the weight of a nation on her shoulders, Smith made a stunning save, diving full stretch to deny a crucial penalty and swinging the momentum in the Matildas' favor. Though the Matildas ultimately fell short in the final, Smith's save was a defining moment, showcasing her talent and courage on the biggest stage. It has been replayed countless times and is considered one of the iconic moments of the tournament.

"Katelyn's performance in the World Cup was nothing short of phenomenal," said Matildas coach, Sarah Miller, in a recent interview. "Her shot-stopping ability is world-class, but it's her mental fortitude that truly sets her apart. She thrives under pressure and consistently delivers when her team needs her most."

Smith isn't the only Western Australian athlete in contention for the WA Sports Star Award this year. She's up against a strong field of competitors, including AFLW star Jess Eaton, renowned for her consistent high performance and leadership on the field, Paralympic swimmer Katia Bazley, a multiple medal winner known for her inspiring dedication, and Linda Reynolds, the Paralympics Australia President, who has been a driving force in the advancement of Paralympic sport in the country. The competition is expected to be fierce, highlighting the depth of athletic talent emerging from Western Australia.

The WA Sports Star Award, now in its 68th year, recognizes outstanding achievements by Western Australian athletes across a range of sports. The judging panel, comprised of sporting experts and journalists, will consider not only athletic performance but also sportsmanship, community involvement, and dedication to their chosen discipline.

The ceremony, scheduled for March 15th, is expected to be a gala event, celebrating the accomplishments of Western Australia's finest athletes. It's a chance to acknowledge the countless hours of training, the sacrifices made, and the unwavering determination it takes to reach the pinnacle of sporting success.

Beyond the awards ceremony, Smith's success is anticipated to have a lasting impact on soccer participation in Western Australia, particularly among young girls. Local soccer clubs have already reported a significant surge in registration numbers, with many aspiring goalkeepers citing Smith as their inspiration. Her story is a powerful reminder that with hard work, dedication, and belief, anything is possible. She is already involved in mentoring programs with the Football West organisation, aiming to nurture the next generation of WA soccer stars.

The anticipation for the awards ceremony is building, and all nominees deserve recognition for their achievements. However, Katelyn Smith's heroic performance in the FIFA Women's World Cup and her inspiring story have undoubtedly captivated the hearts of Western Australians and positioned her as a strong contender for the coveted WA Sports Star Award.