3 May 1978
Broken Hill born, Natalie “Nat” Thomas, is a Far West Champion who has tried her hand at many sports. From as young as nine, Nat was playing hockey, softball, basketball, golf and athletics. By age 10, Nat was being selected for representative roles, being selected to represent the New South Wales Primary Schools Sports Association in hockey, as a goalkeeper. Nat remained in this team for three years, whilst also representing New South Wales in basketball and golf. Nat’s aptitude for competitive sport became apparent very early, however, it was soccer where she would find most success. At age 15, Nat started playing and earnt herself a scholarship with the South Australian Sports Institute. In 1996, Natalie started playing in the National Soccer League which led to her selection for the Australian Women’s Soccer Squad, The Matilda’s, in the 1998. In her time in the squad, Nat played in serval tournaments, playing against many different countries. One her most acclaimed successes being her debut in the World Cup Qualifiers where she scored a hat trick.
At age 28, Nat crossed codes to AFL and climbed through the competition’s ranks. In 2013, Nat was drafted to the Western Bulldogs, prior to the establishment of the AFLW, at pick 20 to play at the Melbourne Cricket Ground against the Melbourne Demons. Nat continues to play AFL in Brisbane’s top division and now participates in the AFL Masters Competition, receiving notable accolades across several years. Off the field, Nat is a Senior Firefighter and has been a part of Queensland’s Fire Service since 2011.
2017 – 2019
2014 – 2015
2013
2009
2002
1999
1998
1996 – 2003