Australia’s vice-captain Steph Catley is a name known by Australian football fans all over the world; the ever-present defender has been a stalwart in the modern Matildas era, having made her debut over 10 years ago in 2012.
In this Steph Catley article…
Quick Facts
| Name | Steph Catley |
| Age | 29 |
| Date of Birth | January 26 1994 |
| Place of Birth | Melbourne, Victoria |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Current Club | Arsenal Women |
| Partner | Dean Bouzanis |
| @stephcatley |
Steph Catley, born on January 26, 1994, in Melbourne, Victoria is an accomplished Australian women’s footballer known for her attacking prowess and technical skills. Catley’s passion for football emerged at a young age playing for local teams in her hometown.
Steph Catley Career
Catley made her debut for Perth Glory in the W-League aged just 15. Her performances earned her a move to Melbourne Victory, where she continued to impress with her overlapping runs in attack and an ability to deliver accurate crosses from the left flank.
Steph Catley Current Team
Now playing her football in the Women’s Super League for Arsenal, Catley operates up and down the left side of a pitch, she’s defensively sound and finds space further up the pitch to aid the attack. Steph Catley has played 109 times for Matildas, having represented her national side in FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015 & 2019, AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2014, 2018 & 2022, and Olympic Games 2016 & 2020.
In her club career, Catley has played for various teams, including Portland Thorns FC in the NWSL and Arsenal Women in the FA Women’s Super League. With her attacking mindset, technical abilities, and solid defensive work, Steph Catley has established herself as one of Australia’s top footballers and continues to contribute significantly to both her club and country.
Catley was named PFA Women’s Player of the Year in 2020. She was awarded the W-League’s Young Player of the Year for the 2012–13 season and the Female U20 Footballer of the Year by Football Federation Australia in 2012 and 2013.
Steph Catley Net Worth
Steph Catley re-signed with Arsenal Women in an undisclosed deal in June 2023, continuing her stay with the Women’s Super League side. Whilst details about her current deal weren’t revealed, it’s estimated her net worth is $1 million AUD – $5 million AUD.
Steph Catley Partner
Steph Catley has been in a relationship with Dean Bouzanis since 2016 after the pair met at Melbourne City football club. The couple announced their engagement on social media in January 2023.
Bouzanis is a professional goalkeeper for Sutton United, who play in League Two, the fourth tier of the English football league system.
Steph Catley’s Goal Against Ireland
On the opening day of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Australia welcomed Ireland to a sold-out Accor Stadium in Sydney.
Although Australia dominated the possession, it didn’t translate to clear chances. And with the game finely poised heading into the second half, the Matildas had to take control. Surging forward, Australia were awarded a penalty after Marissa Sheva bowled over Hayley Raso inside the penalty box.
Steph Catley stepped up to bury the penalty and send the crowd into a frenzy. The game ended 1-0 to the hosts taking a crucial three points into the second group game.
Steph Catley Injury
Steph Catley missed a number of crucial games for Arsenal in the Women’s Super League during the 2022/23 season, suffering multiple injuries to her foot, hamstring and groin.
In March 2023, Catley managed just 16 minutes against Leicester before picking up an injury.
In July 2023, Catley picked up another foot injury and was forced to spend time on the sidelines in protective gear, with mounting fears her dream of representing Australia at the FIFA Women’s World Cup could be over. But that wasn’t going to keep Catley from stepping up for her team.
“I’m feeling really good,” Catley said. “I did have a few niggles towards the back end of the season which was frustrating. The injury wasn’t ideal but luckily it happened when I had plenty of time to sort of get myself right.”
Feats
Steph celebrated her 29th birthday in January 2023 by winning a match. At the end of the month, she was proposed to by her partner. She played at the McDonald James Stadium where the Matildas emerged victorious. In March 2023, Steph participated in the tournament where Arsenal won the Women’s World Cup. She also visited Cupra Australia and spent time with her grandparents. Hanging out with one of her favorite people, Gabriella Apap, was another highlight. She celebrated her 3rd World Cup appearance with the Matildas and thanked Melbourne for their support. Steph also took part in the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Melbourne, Australia. At the end of 2023, she won Visa’s Player of the Match. In early 2024, the Matildas secured tickets to play at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Ambassador
She signed an ambassadorial deal with Optus and promoted the Nike team kit as Nike’s ambassador. Additionally, she participated in an ad for Patron Whiskey. Optus sponsored people to become teachers, doctors, lawyers, footballers, and even female referees with a $3000 grant. Steph had the opportunity to inform some of the recipients as their brand ambassador.
Resting
She swam, sunbathed, and visited restaurants in Santorini. Steph was the model for Tommy Hilfiger’s fall shoot in 2023 and spent time with other Matildas such as Mackenzie Arnold and Samantha Kerr.
Interviews
Sunday Life AU, a renowned Aussie magazine, conducted an interview delving into the ups and downs of Steph’s career. According to the interview, Steph developed a love for football at the age of 6, accompanying her elder brother, Dan, to his matches. At that time, female football was not as evolved as it is today. She joined the boys’ team despite some parents’ disapproval. She also mentioned that her entry into Arsenal Women’s Club was where she needed to be. For the 2024 Women’s Day, Steph, as the captain and regular vice-captain of the Matildas, leads a stellar group of Australian women ranging from entertainers, designers to financial activists.