Red-hot form in her third and final season for Central Connecticut Blue Devils made her best offensive player with 11 goals and 13 assists — the second best attacking statistics for a player in Blue Devils history.

But the 23-year-old former Katoomba High School student — back home for a well-earned four-week break — said it was her improvement in defence that’s made all the difference.

“The statistics show goals and assists, but I think I got a lot better defending,” the talented midfielder said.

“I attribute my success this year to fitness, defence and a lot of hard work with my coaches.”

Leah also had a solid season in the top amateur league in the world, the WPSL, playing for the Soccerplus Connecticut Reds.

But life in the US hasn’t been all training, team trips and matches.

Leah has one semester to go to complete a sports teaching degree and is enjoying her studies and being the student with the ‘Down Under’ accent.

“I’m really enjoying life off the field and my studies are going well.

“There’s one other Australian on campus, so it’s definitely a lot of fun being one of the only Aussies around here.”

Leah hopes her scintillating season will edge her towards being picked in the US Pro League, a lifelong dream.

“I’m starting to get people taking notice of me and that recognition can help a lot.”

Leah spoke to the Gazette on her mobile during a lazy day out at Manly beach on January 8, but the second part of her holiday back home will involve more strenuous activities.

On January 14 Leah will travel to Canberra for a week-long training camp with the Matildas squad, Australia’s national women’s soccer team.

Leah played regularly for the Young Matildas and the senior side before heading to the US four years ago on a soccer scholarship.

“Going to the Matildas training camp is an opportunity I’m thrilled about because I definitely want to play for the Matildas again.

“Meanwhile it’s great to be back in the Blue Mountains with family and friends — if I move back to Australia I’ll live in the Mountains, I love it here.”

Leah flies back to Connecticut on January 22.