Jake Girdwood-Reich Bio
Jake Max Girdwood-Reich is an Australian professional soccer player who plays as a defensive midfielder for Auckland FC on loan from St. Louis City SC. A versatile player, Girdwood-Reich can also be deployed as a central defender. He was born on 26 May 2004 in Clovelly, New South Wales, Australia, and has quickly made a name for himself in the world of soccer since starting his professional career in 2022.
Early Life and Background
Jake Girdwood-Reich was born in Clovelly, a suburb of Sydney, New South Wales. He is of Jewish heritage, with a maternal grandmother who is a Holocaust survivor. His mother briefly worked with UNICEF in Sydney, which partnered with Sydney FC in 2012. Growing up, Girdwood-Reich was a passionate supporter of Sydney FC, becoming a member at the age of six. He also supports Premier League club Arsenal and Scottish club Rangers, influenced by his father’s Scottish family. Girdwood-Reich attended Clovelly Public School and Endeavour Sports High School, where he played for both school football teams and state school teams. Outside of school, he played junior football for Sydney University, Sydney Olympic, and St Johnstone, a Scottish club. He later played in the under-13s for APIA Leichhardt before signing for Sydney FC Youth at the age of 12. Additionally, he played futsal for Mascot Vipers and represented New South Wales in futsal competitions.
Path to Soccer
Girdwood-Reich’s journey into professional soccer began with his youth career at Sydney FC, where he developed his skills and showcased his potential. He made a significant impact in the National Premier Leagues (NPL) with Sydney FC, which led to his promotion to the senior team. His professional debut came in an Australia Cup Round of 32 match against Central Coast Mariners on 31 July 2022. He made his A-League Men debut as a substitute on 29 October 2022 against Macarthur FC. Shortly after his promotion, he won the Sydney FC Rising Star Award at the 2022 Sky Blue Awards night, recognizing his outstanding performance and potential.
Jake Girdwood-Reich Career
Early Career (2020–2022)
Girdwood-Reich began his senior career with Sydney FC in the NPL, where he played from 2020 to 2023. His time in the NPL allowed him to gain valuable experience and develop his skills further. His notable achievements during this period include winning the Sydney FC Rising Star Award in 2022, which marked him as one of the club’s most promising young talents. He transitioned to the A-League in 2022, where he continued to impress with his performances.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Girdwood-Reich’s breakthrough season came during the 2023–24 A-League season, where he showcased his abilities on a larger stage. His performances earned him a transfer to Major League Soccer expansion club St. Louis City SC for an undisclosed amount, believed to exceed the previous record set by Adrian Mierzejewski. In 2025, he joined Auckland FC on loan for the 2025–26 season as an injury replacement for Nando Pijnaker, reuniting with head coach Steve Corica. He made his Auckland FC debut in a 0–0 draw against Melbourne Victory, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable player.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jake Girdwood-Reich’s signature work includes his performances with Sydney FC, where he won the Sydney FC Rising Star Award and was selected for the PFA Players A League Team of the Season in 2024. His journey reflects his dedication and commitment to the sport, as well as his potential for future success.
Jake Girdwood-Reich Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jake Girdwood-Reich has received notable nominations, including the Sydney FC Rising Star Award, which he won in 2022, and his selection for the PFA Players A League Team of the Season in 2024.
Jake Girdwood-Reich Awards Won
Jake Girdwood-Reich has achieved significant recognition in his young career, winning the Sydney FC Rising Star Award in 2022 and being named in the PFA Players A League Team of the Season in 2024.
Jake Girdwood-Reich Family
Information about Jake Girdwood-Reich’s family is limited. He is known to have a maternal grandmother who is a Holocaust survivor, reflecting his Jewish heritage.
Personal Life
Details about Jake Girdwood-Reich’s personal life, including relationships and children, are not publicly available. His focus remains on his soccer career and development as a professional athlete.