After a strong season with the Western Sydney Wanderers in the Westfield W-League, Caitlin Cooper is enjoying the chance to perform in the Women’s Talent ID Camp.
“I haven’t been in camp since 2018 and it was definitely a shock to be called into camp again. I'm excited and just taking every day as it comes.” said Cooper.
After the Westfield W-League season ended, some players went straight to their respective NPLW commitments around the country while others enjoyed a break after the season.
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“The first session was good, getting things moving again, because it's been a while since we've been in W-League. And it's a bit of a shock to the system because I haven't been here for so long. So it was a good quality session and it was good to start like that.”
Cooper is one of 26 women to be called into camp and one of the players with previous senior national team experience.
“Coming into camp, I am quite a veteran. It is quite surreal. I am getting old. But yeah, it's amazing to still be around the squad and it's amazing to see all the young ones coming through. So I think the Matildas are looking bright for the future.”
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The camp provides an opportunity not only for Australian-based players to show their wares and become familiar with the national team environment, but for the coaching staff to keep their eyes on the talent in their own backyard.
The Australian-based coaching staff is made up entirely of women, something a lot of the players would never have experienced.
“I don't think I've ever had an all-female coaching team. So it is awesome and just shows you where football in Australia is going.”