It takes incredible devotion, hard work, and discipline to be a professional soccer player, many would agree that this is required of a lawyer too; but could you imagine balancing both?
Claire Coelho is the Newcastle Jets W-League Goalkeeper and a Criminal Lawyer, two professions requiring years of dedication, commitment, and mental and physical endurance.
“I have pretty good time management skills, which is something I’ve learnt over the many years of juggling my commitments,” Coelho said.
“I’ve also not known any different other than law and soccer— but also the club and my employer are very understanding.
“I like to do things properly and to the best of my ability, so whatever needs doing that day I make sure it gets done, a rest day each week is also always welcomed!”
In February 2020, Coelho was admitted as a Lawyer of the Supreme Court of NSW alongside her Bachelor of Laws (Honours) Bachelor of Social Science and Diploma of Legal Practice.
During the W-League season and on top of her lawyer commitments, Coelho attends four to five field training sessions and two gym sessions a week.
“Normally, I have two nights off training a week and a free day on the weekend if we are lucky,” Coelho said.
“In my spare time, I enjoy bike riding all over Newcastle, going for brunch, having a sleep in and watching documentaries.”
As a teenager, Coelho watched the crime channel regularly and was always interested in studying law.
“I knew that I wanted to work with people who are in a very vulnerable and stressed situation or time in their life,” she said.
“I am not interested in the commercial law world and didn’t want to be behind a desk most days— I love being in court and being an advocate.
“Accused persons have the right to legal representation, and I want to be a criminal lawyer who takes the pressure off my clients and aim to get the best outcome possible for each case.”
For her legal career, Coelho aims to be a respected criminal solicitor who people can rely on, as for her sporting career, she wants to become a role model for the younger generation.
After years of playing goalkeeper and soccer growing up, Coelho still gets nerves from time to time but has learnt how to manage them and use them to her advantage.
“Prior to a game, I visualise what I can do and have been asked to do—positive reinforcement is the best way to overcome nerves.
“An old coach once told me to just take it one save at a time, and that’s what I try and do when a shot is coming, I think of the best way to deal with the ball based on the situation.
“Most of the time, you don’t have too much time to think, so you have to trust your technique and training.”
Coelho said her favourite save so far, was one of the 15 she made against Brisbane Roar in 2019/2020 season, which was made even better by the fans’ support.
“The Newcastle community makes the club so special, there is a lot of pride wearing the Jets jersey,” Coelho said.
“When you are on the field, the fans will back you no matter what—that’s the best part about playing for the club.”
Hayley McMahon