Dustin Wells
Dustin Wells | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 31, 1983 Australia |
| Occupation | Soccer player |
| Years active | 2001–present |
| Known for | Playing for Wollongong Wolves, Sydney FC, New Zealand Knights, Belconnen United; representing Australia U-20 |
Dustin Wells (born 31 May 1983) is an Australian soccer player currently competing for Belconnen United in the National Premier Leagues competition.
Club career
At eighteen years old, Wells transitioned from the AIS to join the National Soccer League club Wollongong Wolves ahead of the 2001–02 season. He quickly earned a place in Wollongong's senior squad and established himself as a consistent starter by the conclusion of that season.
In September 2004, Wells underwent trials with Romanian outfit Dinamo București, alongside fellow Australian Ryan Griffiths. Although he did not secure a contract with Dinamo, reports indicated he agreed to a three-month deal with an option to extend for two and a half years at Oțelul Galați. Nevertheless, the transfer was stalled due to unresolved disputes over transfer fees between the clubs, resulting in failure to obtain international clearance.
Wells was incorporated into Sydney FC's squad in November 2005 specifically for the 2005 FIFA Club World Championship, selected from outside their standard A-League roster.
In November 2006, he signed a short-term contract with A-League side New Zealand Knights, covering for injured player Richard Johnson. This move attracted criticism from Sydney FC and New Zealand international Jeremy Brockie, who advocated prioritizing local players. Wells made his debut on 5 November 2006 against Queensland Roar, providing the assist for the sole goal that secured the Knights’ first victory after nine consecutive matches without a win. His contract concluded in December 2006 after featuring in six A-League fixtures.
International career
Wells has represented Australia at both Schoolboys and under-20 levels with the Young Socceroos, including participation in the 2003 FIFA World Youth Championship.
Honours
Belconnen United
- ACT Premier League regular season champions: 2012
- Capital Football Federation Cup winners: 2014
Australia U-20
- OFC U-19 Men's Championship champions: 2002
Individual
- ACT Premier League player of the season: 2010, 2011, 2012
- ACT Premier League leading goalscorer: 2011, 2012
- Capital Football All-Star selections: 2018, 2022
- Weston Masters All-Star: 2023
- Weston MVP, Masters Tournament 2023