From Perth to Melbourne via a promising martial arts career and the Australian Institute of Sport, Scott Galloway is pursuing his passion for football and making a name for himself at Melbourne Victory.
Galloway takes after his father Paul, who is a football fanatic.
Paul Galloway migrated from Northern Ireland to Australia, bringing with him a love for the beautiful game that he and his son would later bond over.
That bond is the reason Scott became involved with the sport.
“My dad’s from Northern Ireland and over there, football is a religion – everyone loves it,” Galloway says.
“He used to play in different teams and was pretty athletic when he was younger, so I took after him and developed a passion towards it like him.”
Coming from a supportive family meant Galloway had the confidence and drive to forge a career in football.
“My dad would take me down to the park all the time and some days we’d come back happy, some days we didn’t,” Galloway says.
“He was harsh on me sometimes, but it’s what I needed.
“He pushed me hard, which you need your parents to do when you’re young if you want to succeed.”
Although he received some tough love at times, Galloway admits it was for the best.
“As my dad, he could see what I could do and how I could improve,” Galloway explains.
“He figured that if he could push me in the right direction, I could make it here and even further one day.”
After playing for local teams in Perth and then moving to the National Training Centre, Galloway was selected for the Australian Institute of Sport at the age of 16.
From there, it was Ange Postecoglou who spotted the youngster and offered him an opportunity at Victory.
“I’ve been living here ever since then. It’s coming up to four years now that I’ve been in Melbourne,” Galloway said.
Galloway reflects on his Victory debut – playing 90 minutes in a 2-1 Melbourne Derby win in February 2013 – as one of his greatest achievements.
“But also going to the U-20 World Cup, playing and starting in the games against Columbia, El Salvador and Turkey, as well as being selected for the Olyroos,” he added.
“It’s hard to pick because I look at each thing that comes along as a great achievement and something to be proud of.”
As for his biggest inspiration, Galloway has Paul at the top of the list.
“My dad is my inspiration, especially because of where he has come from, what he’s done in his life, and what he continues to do for our family now,” Galloway says.
“He works hard every day and looks after both himself and my family and I hope that one day I can repay the favour.”
Short passes with Scott
Interesting fact: I was an Australian taekwondo champion and a black belt as well. It was something I was good at, but it got to the point where I kept getting injured. When people blocked with their elbows and your feet hit their elbows, it’s not good so I had to give it up. But it was good fun.
Ideal holiday destination: I’d love to go to Barcelona, Spain. Watching a game there would be amazing. It’s probably the one place I really want to go one day.
Who would play you in a movie about your life: I think Ryan Reynolds would be cool. I don’t think we’re the same, but I think he could make me look a bit better.
Favourite thing about Victory: The fans. You play in front of the biggest crowds and for the biggest club. That’s what I love about it – they’re loud, passionate, and you can’t beat it.
Favourite player: I love George Best, he’s probably one of the greatest players that has ever played. With him being Northern Irish and my dad being Northern Irish meant that I heard a lot about him.
Favourite place to play: AAMI Park in front of a packed house. I think the way the stadium is made makes it amazing. The atmosphere is the best during games.
