For Belconnen United midfielder Sarah Brann, football has never just been a sport it’s been a lifelong journey built on family support, hard work, and an unwavering love of the game. On grand final day, that journey reached a new milestone as her side won a nail-biting Grand Final match against West Canberra Wanderers.
Sarah’s football story began at just four years old with Belsouth Football Club, where she first kicked a ball in community teams filled with laughter and weekend energy. By the age of 13, she had earned a place at Belconnen United, a club she describes as a “second family.” Since then, she has developed into a leader on and off the field, setting an example for her teammates with her consistency, preparation, and drive.
“Football has always been a big part of my life,” Sarah reflected. “My parents inspired me into the game because they loved soccer, and that love rubbed off on me. From the start I just wanted to work hard, play hard, and enjoy every minute.”
In the Grand Final, Belconnen narrowly beat West Canberra Wanderers 1-0, with Brann’s presence standing out. She drove her side forward during a dominant second half, keeping possession ticking and inspiring her teammates to keep pushing. For Sarah, that period of play summed up what she loves most about the game.
“My favourite part of the grand final was that second half,” she said. “We stood up, we dominated, and we got our goal. We stuck together as a team, and that shows what Belconnen is all about.”
Her preparation for the big stage was as steady as her midfield game. She admitted there were no special rituals or superstitions before kick-off, just consistency and focus.
“I kept everything the same, just like any other match,” Sarah explained. “I watched my sister’s game earlier, drank plenty of water, and got myself ready mentally and physically. It was about staying calm and treating it with the same mentality as always.”
For Brann, Belconnen United is more than just a football club. She speaks passionately about the bond among the players and the sense of community within the squad.
“United means everything to me,” she said. “The girls are so supportive we always have each other’s backs. That togetherness is what makes us strong, and it’s why I love being part of this team.”
Following the Grand Final win, Brann’s outlook is firmly forward-focused. She believes Belconnen’s juniors and seniors are building something important, and that the club’s culture will only continue to grow.
“As a team, our goal is to build on what we’ve achieved. We ended the season on such a high with the grand final, and now it’s about taking that next step. From juniors to seniors, we want to keep improving, keep developing, and keep pushing for success.”
When asked what advice she would offer to the next generation of players, particularly young girls hoping to follow in her footsteps, Sarah’s answer was clear and heartfelt.
“My message is simple: never give up. Keep going, keep chasing your dreams, because all the girls will be there with you. Football is about working hard, playing hard, and enjoying the journey, and if you stick with it, amazing things will come.”
On a day filled with passion, noise, and fast-paced football, Sarah Brann’s story stood out as a reminder of what grassroots football represents growth, resilience, and a love of the game that starts young and never fades. From those first Belsouth kicks at four years old to leading her Belconnen side on grand final day, Brann is proof that the future of women’s football in Canberra is in safe hands.
Words: Charli Fiddes
