Brendon Santalab writes about what he has been doing during the off-season, his excitement for the upcoming season and the Women’s World Cup.
Hi everyone,
After a refreshing off-season we are almost ready to return to training so I thought I would put some words together to let you know what I’ve been up to and how excited I am to get back on the pitch.
During the off-season I have been preparing by focusing on my rehab and especially my shoulder to ensure that it is right and ready for training and our games.
I have enjoyed having some time off and recently went on a holiday overseas. It has been great to have this break as the past couple of seasons with the Wanderers have been very full on and hectic.
Having such a busy schedule for two years required a point in which we have the chance to rest and rejuvenate. This off-season is a period for us as a team and as individuals to get some much needed rest.
I’m personally really looking forward to the upcoming pre-season and Hyundai A-League season as well as our first FFA Cup match. I’ll be watching the live draw on Wednesday 1 July (on Fox Sports) with interest to see who we get.
Reflecting on the 2014/15 season, I missed out on a lot of our games due to injury and only managed to play in six games (starting in four and scoring in two).
I am busting to get back onto the field to play football and replicate the achievements we had in our first two seasons here at the Western Sydney Wanderers.
We are going to be aiming and competing for those achievements.
On the topic of achievements, how good are Australia in the Women’s World Cup! The Matildas have shown they are a world class team while the tournament as a whole has been highly successful.
It really goes to show the high level women’s football is at and how it is growing rapidly on a global scale. If football is to continue growing – both in Australia and worldwide – the involvement of women playing is crucial to that expansion.
Through the Matilda’s success in beating Brazil and playing well during the group stage they have made football in Australia stronger. The next stage it to continue growing the women’s game domestically.
That includes getting down to support your local Westfield W-League team, especially if they play in Red & Black, and signing up to play at your local club while encouraging your friends, sisters, daughters and mothers to play as well!
Let’s grow the foundations so that, as a nation, we can continue to build and grow into the super power we have the potential to be.
See you soon,
Santa #11
