As we count down until Newcastle's A-League Women's season kicks off against Sydney at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on Saturday, the Newcastle Herald has gone one-on-one with the Jets to find out more about each footballer.
Defender Taren King is returning for a second season with the Jets and has previous experience in the national league with Canberra United.
The 24-year-old brought a calm and composed presence and some height to Newcastle's back line last campaign and played an important role in directing the team in front of her.
Jets coach Ash Wilson believes King will again prove integral as the Jets eye a return to finals football this campaign.
"She is an experienced defender who reads the game well and has a competitive mentality," Wilson said.
"Her leadership qualities on and off the pitch have been an asset to the team environment, and she will bring further stability to our back line, enabling us to build on principles and partnerships."
NH: What was your first club, and how old were you?
TK: Shellharbour Soccer Club in under sixes.
NH: What do you do off the field?
TK: I'm at university and about to start my last year of primary teaching and I work part-time in retail. During the NPLW season I also coach with my club, Sydney Uni. My hobbies would be seeing my friends and family and loved ones. I recently got a puppy, so the little spare time I did have is now quite busy chasing him around.
NH: What music, if any, is playing on game day?
TK: I don't really need music before the game. I'll go with whatever is playing but I'm also happy to be in silence.
NH: What television series, if any, are you addicted to?
TK: During COVID it was probably All American.
NH: What can't you live without?
TK: It would probably be tied between coffee and chicken parmigiana.
NH: Do you have any pre-match habits?
TK: I'm a bit boring. I try my best to not have a ritual or routine.
Our next player profile is young gun Kirsty Fenton.
