If there is one word that could sum up Angus Thurgate’s career, it’s sacrifice.
While still only 21 and in the early knockings of what looks set to be a promising career, the sacrifices that Thurgate has made to get to where he is today highlights his passion and determination to be a Newcastle Jet.
This is his journey so far.
THE BEGINNING
Before it was red and blue, it was black and blue.
At five years old, Angus began his footballing career at Port Saints Football Club, and it wasn’t long before he rose through the ranks and linked up with the Emerging Jets.
This is where Thurgate’s sacrifice began. The first sacrifice? His time.
Still residing in Port Macquarie, Thurgate made the trip to Newcastle twice a week to train, and then once more on game-day. A 5-hour round trip from Port Macquarie to Newcastle meant Thurgate spent a total of 15 hours a week travelling.
By Year Ten, Thurgate had a decision to make, if he was serious about a career as a professional footballer, he would need to make yet another sacrifice, his family. Thurgate made the solo move to Newcastle and continued to excel in his time with the youth team.
Thurgate’s sheer persistence and determination did not go unnoticed, and he was offered a scholarship contract with the first team. From there Thurgate continued to put his all into his training and settling into his new surroundings he took his game to the next level and inked his first professional contract.
THE BREAKTHROUGH
In January of 2018, and at only 17 years of age, Angus made his professional debut, coming off the bench in a 1-0 victory over the Brisbane Roar.
He enjoyed a great start to his A-League career and was praised for his sharp vision and efficient ball distribution, showing so much class that he even earned the nickname ‘The Port Macquarie Pele’ from his team-mates.
Since his debut, Thurgate has notched up 67 appearances and four goals for the Newcastle Jets and in recent seasons has been the first name on the team sheet, nailing down a position in the Jets midfield.
His consistent performances and strong technical ability have also earnt him a number of call ups to the Australian Olyroos squad, making four appearances and scoring once.
In what has been a disappointing few seasons for the Jets, Thurgate has been a shining light and is integral to the club’s success moving forward. Although, he is still only 21 years of age, Thurgate has a wealth of experience and the ability to mix it with the best of the A-League.
In 2021, Thurgate was rewarded for his consistency and put pen to paper on a new two-year deal that we will see him at the club until 2023.
THE PRESENT
Despite his age, Thurgate is one of the senior members of this new look Jets squad.
New manager, Arthur Papas has made a host of signings in the lead up to the 2021/22 campaign, and the extended pre-season has allowed the young Jet to already link up and make some formidable connections with his new teammates.
He is our engine in the middle of the park and he’ll be more than ready come Round One.
Angus’ journey doesn’t stop now. The best is yet to come.
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