CommBank Matildas forward Michelle Heyman said that the team was ready to “work extremely hard” and “be as positive as possible” in their first camp after Paris 2024™.
It will also be the first time that the squad has gathered under the watchful eye of Interim Head Coach Tom Sermanni.
“It wasn’t what we wanted at the Olympics, we really wanted to be better,” Heyman told media on Monday evening (AEDT).
“This camp, everyone is going to change their mindset. Try and be as positive as possible, work extremely hard, and try and come away with some great results.
“These are two games coming up that are going to be extremely challenging. They’re both quality countries to play against, so it’s going to be a big test for us to see where we’re at.
“With new staff, in a new environment, anything can happen.”
The 36-year-old has spent her time post-Olympics working with the CommBank Matildas strength and conditioning team, as well as starting pre-season with her A-League Women’s side Canberra United, in order to prepare for international duty.
Tom Sermanni was the coach when she made her debut for the national team back in 2010. Heyman is looking forward to working with the Scot for a second time.
“I’ve got great respect for him,” she said.
“He’s an incredible human, extremely happy all the time. He brings a really positive vibe into this environment. I know what his strengths are, and I’m excited to watch him bring that into our training sessions, and allow us to grow as footballers.
“Whatever Tommy says, that’s what you do. He’s the boss, and you just run with it, you go with it, and try and be the best footballer that you can so you can win games and help your teammates out.”
Heyman’s personal journey to getting back into the squad in 2024 after being in the international wilderness for six years is a remarkable one.
She said that she has learned and grown plenty since she was that youngster on debut 14 years ago.
“I was like a headless chook running out on the field, and wasting all my energy within the first sprint because I was so nervous and just couldn’t believe that I was playing for my country!” she recalled, remembering her national team debut.
“Now, when I look back at our last games at the Olympics, I just feel so confident and comfortable within myself and my position, and I know the game so well now. I’ve got all those years of experience behind me, so it just brings so much confidence for myself personally.
“I am a very different footballer since 2010 to where I am today, and it’s only gone upwards. I’m super excited to be working with Tommy again, and I’m hoping to continue to grow as a footballer and be better.”
She also had positive words for young goalkeeper Chloe Lincoln, who will be joining the squad for the very first time.
Heyman played with Lincoln for three years at Canberra United.
“I’m not surprised at all,” she said, of Lincoln’s call-up.
“I think Chloe is an exceptional goalkeeper. She is pure talent, and I’ve been lucky enough to work with her for multiple years at Canberra United.
“For myself to see her here - I was like a proud Mum when I saw her name being selected because she really deserves this opportunity for herself to grow as a player.
“I’ve told her to keep her eyes wide open, take in all the information that you get, and just enjoy every moment. I really see her as the future goalkeeper for Australia.”
COMMBANK MATILDAS | OCTOBER 2024 INTERNATIONALS
Switzerland v CommBank Matildas
Date: Friday, 25 October 2024 (local) / Saturday, 26 October (AEDT)
Kick-off: 8.00pm CET (local) / 5.00am (AEDT)
Venue: Stadion Letzigrund, Zurich
Broadcast: Paramount+
Tickets: Ticketmaster (Switzerland)
Germany v CommBank Matildas
Date: Monday, 28 October 2024 (local) / Tuesday, 29 October (AEDT)
Kick-off: 6.10pm CET (local) / 4.10am (AEDT)
Venue: Schauinsland-Reisen-Arena, Duisburg
Broadcast: Paramount+
Tickets: DFB Ticket Portal
