Bunbury export Ben Steele is showing the makings of becoming an A-league star as performs in his second year with Floreat Athena Football Club.
Steele has been an important part of the senior squad for the National Premier Leagues WA team in 2021.
The young centre-back played most of last season in the reserves side but has enjoyed playing his part in the senior team this year.
Steele said he has been enjoying his time at the club and that everyone was very welcoming when he first arrived.
Including the first match of the season against Balcatta where they won and Steele has also featured prominently in the pre-season night series competition.
He also played a late but handy role in the top four cup win over City of Vincent rivals Perth Soccer Club in October.
Steele said it was a big step up going from reserves to the firsts team.
"It is more fast paced and technically, I have been learning a lot more," he said.
While many people don't enjoy defending, Steele said he loved the challenge of stopping the opposition from scoring.
"I still get my chance to go forward and try and score," he said.
When in Bunbury Steele played for the South West Pheonix and was in the state under 16 squad which toured China.
Since graduating from Bunbury Catholic College he spent two years in England.
Professional player Josh Risdon also hails from Bunbury and Steele said he had always looked up to him and hoped to follow in his footsteps.
Risdon has represented Australia as well as play for Perth Glory and now Western United.
"To play professionally is the dream," he said.
This year is also a big year for the club as it will be celebrating its 70th anniversary, so all players will be gearing up for an important season, including Steele.
Steele said it was great to see the amount of volunteers involved in the club as they were big supporters of the players as well as helping out.
The players will be showcasing an anniversary kit as part of the 70th celebrations this year.
