To our mighty Matildas,

Wow, what a history-making run it has been. 

We knew hosting the biggest global women’s sporting event on our shores would change our game forever, but I don’t think any of us could have imagined the incredible way you would captivate and inspire an entire nation. 

Looking around Stadium Australia after the full-time whistle on Wednesday night with a devastated son next to me and young fans fighting back tears, it struck me just how monumental an impact your squad of 23 players has had on so many Australians in just a few short weeks. 

I understand that you might feel disappointed with the on-field result, but please know that what you have done for your sport and your country goes beyond anything a trophy could ever represent.  

Your FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ campaign has unlocked something so magical and special for women’s football here in Australia and has evoked an overwhelming sense of pride, of fascination, and of immense joy right across the nation. 

Not just for die-hard football fans, but for everyday Australians. Young and old, those born overseas who now call Australia home, even those who’d never watched a game of football or had any interest in sport. 

Most importantly though, for a whole new generation of boys and girls who will grow up knowing women’s football as the norm; as just football. 

So, as you prepare to take to the field for one last time in this tournament, I’d like to thank you and let you know how honoured we are, as a state and as a game, to have witnessed each and every one of you play your part in this epic journey. 

It’s difficult to sum up the significance of the legacy you’ve created and I don’t think we’ll know its full impact for some time, but I do know that personally and on behalf of the football community in Queensland, I will be forever grateful.  

Paula Robinson
President
Football Queensland 

 

Image: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images