The incredible journey of Cortnee Vine has taken her from the youth ranks of Redcliffe’s Peninsula Power FC to World Cup stardom. But despite her international fame at this year’s World Cup, the local junior star has decided to remain with Sydney FC and continue to promote the domestic game.
Humble beginnings with Peninsula Power FC
Long before she became a national heroine, Cortnee Vine was just an eager young player developing her skills at Redcliffe’s Peninsula Power FC. Vine first joined the club as a 12-year-old in 2010, playing for coach Garry Dye’s U-12 girls’ side.
Dye recalls that the lanky Vine arrived blessed with great athleticism but little technical prowess. Her blistering pace, however, stood out. Dye worked to hone her skills and she soon became one of the youth team’s top strikers. Vine often played against boys’ teams in higher divisions to test herself.
World Cup journey
Vine’s dedication and constant improvement paid off, eventually earning her selection for the Matildas. Earlier this year, she led her professional club Sydney FC to the A-League championship with 15 goal contributions in 18 games.
After being named in Australia’s squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Vine started the opening matches, bringing her trademark speed and finishing ability to the Matildas attack. However, a defeat to Nigeria in the group stage prompted head coach Tony Gustavsson to change tactics and switch formations. As a result, Vine lost her place in the first XI.
But the team player embraced her new role as a super-sub. Coming on as a substitute against the likes of Denmark and Canada, Vine provided fresh legs and energy . This team-first mentality was rewarded in the tense quarter-final against France – with her scoring the decisive penalty to send Australia to their first Women’s World Cup semi-final. Her composure in the high-stakes moment showed her maturity on the world stage.
The journey may have ended in the semis, but Vine left her mark on the tournament. For the girl who started out chasing a ball in Redcliffe, it has been a long but rewarding road to World Cup glory.
Cortnee Vine returns to Sydney FC
Despite gaining recognition that could open doors at elite European clubs, Cortnee Vine has re-signed with Sydney FC for a fourth consecutive season. The Matildas’ run has already had an impact on membership, with Sydney FC’s women’s team enjoying record sales. The World Cup buzz has fans eager to see the World Cup heroine back on home soil.
Keeping such a prominent talent in the Australian league is an important step in energising the domestic game. The effects of an invigorating World Cup are already being felt, but Vine’s star power will help keep the momentum going next season.
Published 31 August 2023
