Ian Westlake

Ipswich Town

Born in Clacton-on-Sea, Westlake progressed through the youth ranks at Ipswich Town, at the club's reserves and academy. At one point, he helped the under-17 team to the league title. Westlake then signed his professional forms with the club during the summer of 2002. Westlake reflected: "I might never have played professional football had it not been for relegation. Administration meant the club were forced to sell players and that opened the door for people like myself, Darren Bent and Darren Ambrose. It gave us our chance and, as odd as it sounds, I personally feel I owe my career to relegation." Westlake made his debut for Ipswich Town, coming on as a substitute in a 1–0 home defeat to Gillingham on 26 October 2002. Having spent months at the club's reserves, he made his return to the first team, coming on as a 72nd-minute substitute, in a 1–0 win against Sheffield Wednesday on 15 March 2003. Westlake made a further three appearances for Ipswich Town during the 2002–03 season. At the start of the 2003–04 season, Westlake made his first appearance of the season, coming on as a second-half substitute, in a 1–1 draw against Coventry City on 23 August 2003. Seven days later on 30 August 2003, he made his first start for Ipswich Town, as they lost 2–1 against West Ham United. Westlake then scored his first goal for the side during the 3–4 home defeat to Gillingham on 1 November 2003. Three weeks later on 22 November 2003, Westlake scored his second goal…

Westlake is married to his wife, Clair, and together, they have two daughters. He continued to resided in Ipswich, even after announcing his retirement from professional football. Westlake previously resided in Canada but following his release by Montreal Impact, his family moved back to Ipswich. Since then, Westlake opened up a lettings company and project manage new builds across Ipswich. Westlake once represented England at water polo. Growing up, he was an Ipswich Town supporter.

Individual

Ipswich Town Player of the Year: 2003–04