Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) has today hailed the Matildas qualification for the 2016 Rio Olympics and called on Football Federation Australia (FFA) to provide the players with every possible resource to achieve success at the games.
Speaking after the Matildas completed their grueling AFC Qualifiers with the 1-1 draw with China, PFA Player Relations Executive Kathryn Gill said the performances of the players had been world class.
“The Matildas have once again shown enormous character, courage and determination to overcome significant barriers to achieve qualification,” said Gill. “Their capacity to play such brilliant football when confronted with a schedule that saw them compete in five matches in 10 days was truly remarkable.
“The players and coaching staff have publicly stated that their goal now is to create history and win Australian football’s first Olympic medal. This is a genuine possibility.
“All necessary resources must be afforded to the team in their quest to create history. Moreover, this is not merely an opportunity for the game but an obligation. The players should not have to continue to overcome avoidable obstacles in the pursuit of success.
“The recently agreed collective bargaining agreement (CBA) secured significantly enhanced workplace conditions for the players and it is encouraging to see the impact it is having on performances. The CBA also provides a platform for further enhancements in the high performance environment and commits the PFA and FFA to work in partnership to achieve this. This includes:
>> travel and accommodation arrangements that maximises the ability for players to be at their best;
>> access to first class training facilities, both in assembly and whilst undertaking home training programs; and
>> world class medical care.
“The players as always are willing to shoulder their responsibility, firm in the belief that a genuine partnership between the players and all stakeholders is critical to unlocking the potential of the women’s game.
“The viewing figures further highlight the growing appetite for women’s football, something that the game must harness to create genuine careers for our female footballers.”
PFA Executive President Matt McKay hailed the achievement of the Matildas in qualifying for the games.
“On behalf of all our members I would like congratulate the Matildas on securing qualification,” said the Socceroo.
“The Matildas are advocating for conditions today that we take for granted as part of the foundations for international competitiveness and we are all behind their mission to create a platform for achievement. It is particularly apt in the week that includes International Women’s Day to recognise the outstanding performances but also the necessity to provide our women, of whom we are so proud, with the same conditions the Socceroos enjoy.”
