Foxtel All-Star Scholarship winner Lani Johnson enjoyed in the experience of a lifetime when she was personally invited by Westfield Matildas coach Alen Stajcic to join the team for their recent match against the New Zealand Ferns at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Victoria.
“To be with the Westfield Matildas for three days was one of the coolest experiences ever. Getting to meet all the girls and see how they prepare for game day, coupled with being involved in their training session the day before was incredible.
“It was an incredibly exciting experience to be able to train the Wesfield Matildas for a few days, and especially so close to such an important game. I'd like to thank coach Alen Stajic for organising this opportunity for me along with Foxtel and FFA for making this possible. I had such an amazing time and made memories that will last forever.” - Lani Johnson
Absolutely no experience was missed. Staying at the team hotel, Lani was presented with the full official Westfield Matildas training kit (including Rio Games bags & ball!), had the chance to participate in a Matildas training session under the guidance of Coach Alen Stajcic and witness the preparation and lead up to the match against the Football Ferns.
She had full access to the Matildas locker room, lined up with the Westfield Matildas in the tunnel and walked onto the pitch with the team as they took the field.
Johnson also presented the official match ball to the referees just prior to kick off, plus enjoy a mentoring session with stars Westfield Matildas Michelle Heyman, Caitlin Cooper and Ellie Carpenter.
To read a full diary of Lani’s experience of a life time with the Westfield Matildas – click here to read her diary of the trip!