As Melbourne Victory’s season edges towards the business end, there is no respite for triplet-dad Leigh Broxham.
Despite his busy lifestyle balancing father duties with football, Broxham has zero complaints and is relishing the challenges on and off the pitch.
Victory’s number six remains as inspired as ever and currently sits third for all-time Hyundai A-League appearances, with 287 games played.
Newcastle
In May 2018, Broxham earned his fourth A-League Championship medal in Newcastle. Meanwhile his wife Sam, managed to attend the game in New South Wales with all three children – a medal-winning achievement in itself.
Champions! What a tough year, a truely special group of men. Thankyou Sam for getting our kids to Newcastle 😘 It’s all worth it. #Champions pic.twitter.com/VFAKxC0N5J
— Leigh Broxham (@LeighBroxham) May 6, 2018
“Newcastle was awesome,” said Broxham. “It wasn’t easy getting them all up there either. Flights were expensive, but we just had to make it work. The kids were very young and didn’t exactly know what was going on, but those memories will always be there for me and Sam.”
Family and football
The 31-year-old is currently enjoying his 13th season as a Victory player and arguably his most challenging yet.
“It’s definitely tough,” he admitted.
“As soon as I go home I’m looking after them straight away and we are still trying to get the right amount of rest. Each month is different. When one thing gets easier something else becomes difficult.
“In terms of hobbies, we don’t have time for any. We are just preparing for the next stage of our lives at the moment.”
With Victory competing in the AFC Champions League, Broxham spends a number of days away from his family: “This week we’re travelling to Sydney and then straight off to China. Sam manages things very well and we have a great support group around us.”
Being a mentor
Victory’s longest-serving player is set to make his 23rd A-League appearance of the season this weekend. While on the road, Broxham has another senior player to keep him company.
“It’s no secret that Carl Valeri and I hang out a lot. We enjoy our conversations and think very similarly – he’s a good mate.”
As two of Victory’s most experienced players, the pair are naturally mentoring the younger members of the squad.
“Every coach has his own philosophy, so I don’t get involved with that” he said. “In terms of coaching younger players, you do have an influence with helping them improve and helping them understand the game. As I get older I try to help more.”
Life after football
Broxham isn’t committing to any career after retirement and remains focused on his day job.
“I have a wealth of knowledge of the game and I will always stay involved in some way,” he said. “It’s important for me to give back in some way; while the game is still fresh in my mind.
“My wife and I run Broxham Fitness as well which we both enjoy. At the moment, I just enjoy playing and those things are at the back of my mind.”
Broxham faces a familiar rival this weekend, as Victory travels to face Sydney FC on Saturday, April 6 at the SCG.
