As Gwalia United commemorates its 50th anniversary, it’s fitting to honour its past players and members. Founded in 1975 as Llanedeyrn L.F.C., the club has undergone several transformations, adopting the name Gwalia United in 2024 to reflect its Welsh heritage.
This week’s feature player is Jess Fishlock MBE.
Born in Cardiff in 1987, Fishlock joined the club’s youth ranks at age seven, quickly advancing to the senior team by 16. Her early years with the club, then known as Cardiff City Ladies, showcased her burgeoning talent and set the stage for a remarkable career.
Jess has cemented her status as one of Wales’ greatest footballers, earning the Welsh Footballer of the Year award five times (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2019). In April 2017, she became the first Welsh player—male or female—to reach 100 international caps, further solidifying her legacy on the global stage. She reached the 150-cap milestone in April 2024. In July 2024, she became Wales’ all-time leading goal scorer, underscoring her enduring impact on Welsh football.
Fishlock’s career has been defined by silverware. She has lifted multiple league titles across Europe, Australia, and the United States, including back-to-back Eredivisie championships, four W-League Grand Final victories, and domestic triumphs in Scotland. Her success in the U.S. with OL Reign includes two NWSL Shield wins, while her time in Germany saw her play a key role in FFC Frankfurt’s 2015 UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign. Though she returned to Seattle before the final, her contributions to Frankfurt’s journey earned her a Champions League winner’s medal.
In 2021, Fishlock added another accolade to her glittering career, winning the NWSL Most Valuable Player award with the Reign—further proof of her enduring influence at the highest level of the game.
Beyond her on-field accomplishments, Fishlock has been a vocal advocate for equality using her platform to champion inclusivity in sports. Her dedication to the game and her community was recognised in 2018 when she was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). As Gwalia United celebrates this milestone, Fishlock’s journey from a young talent in our ranks to an international football icon exemplifies the club’s commitment to nurturing excellence and resilience in women’s football.
Gwalia United inducted Jess into our Hall Of Fame in 2024.
Photo Credits: FAW & Huw Evans Picture Agency
