Sharron
Posted Feb 11th, 2008 • Category: Player Profiles • By George Halkias
Do you come from a sporting background and how did you hear about the Street Socceroos?
“I have only ever played sport at school and on a personal level swim and do some gym work. A friend of mine knew about this soccer training and suggested I may enjoy having a go and become instantly hooked”
How do you find playing soccer after not having played before?
“The Street Soccer that we are involved in is a different game from what is generally played. We compete as a team of four people (one goalie, three players), each quarter lasts seven minutes and you have no time to stop, you are constantly moving, this is physically challenging which I really enjoy.”
Did you find being one out of a few women in the team confronting?
“I was really nervous before I went to train (mainly about fitness!) But everyone made me feel welcome straight away and we are all very supportive of each other. There is no problem with the guy’s at all.”
How did it feel representing Australia?
“I never thought that I would ever find myself doing this and the experience was WOW! I was amazed at being there. I couldn’t believe it. Even wearing the team Australian uniform was fantastic”
Was it exciting being part of a team and mixing with people from different countries?
“It was very supportive being part of a team and even though a lot of our opponents didn’t speak English; we were able to communicate through the game. Also knowing that many of the players have been through hard times and were experiencing similar feelings…that bonded us.
What did you learn about traveling overseas?
“It showed me how lucky I am living in Australia. Hearing other people’s stories and struggles helped me understand the hardships people from around the world go through.”
What are your plans for the future?
I am going to do some schooling next year to further my education and train of course, to keep fit for the team.
Written by George Halkias, photograph by James Maiden
George Halkias - George is the National Coach for the Street Socceroos.
He has taken the Street Socceroos to three Homeless World Cups and helped coordinate the National Street Soccer Program to expand throughout Australia.
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