Like many Australians, I fell completely and utterly in love with the Matildas during the World Cup.
As a little girl who loved cricket and AFL yet had no opportunities to play in a girls’ competition, I delighted in the almost unbelievable level of respect and admiration that was showered on the Matildas from all aspects of the community and media.
I felt like my heart might burst as I saw an Australian female national team elevated to levels yet to be attained by their male counterparts. The Matildas were the little girls who held tight to their dreams to play soccer and demanded a spot on boys’ teams until such time as they had their own competitions and pathways. I can only imagine the strength and determination of those girls, combined with the steadfast support and advocacy of their parents.
Read Kelsie’s full opinion piece in The West Australian.