Matildas Star Mary Fowler Opens Up About Mental Health Challenges
GOSFORD, AUSTRALIA – Matildas forward Mary Fowler has publicly discussed her struggles wiht identity, performance expectations, and a challenging work habitat, revealing a vulnerability praised as heroic by those within Australian football. The disclosure comes as the national team prepares for upcoming matches against New Zealand on November 28 in Gosford and December 2 in Adelaide.
Fowler’s comments reflect a broader awareness of mental wellbeing within the Matildas program, with coach Tony montemurro actively working to support players navigating the pressures of professional football. Montemurro emphasized the importance of the FA and support staff being readily available to players, offering assistance with everything from mental health support to practical needs like finding suitable accommodation.
“The biggest thing that we can do as FA [Football Australia] and the people supporting these players is to just be there if they need to talk to them, if they need something, if they need even to understand where a good place to live in a city is, we’re there to help them,” Montemurro said.
Montemurro revealed he has been making a concerted effort to stay connected with players at their clubs in Europe, recently visiting them last month “just see where they’re at, and you get some realities on situations.” Fowler will return to play in January after remaining in the UK for the upcoming New Zealand matches.
