Ledbrook relishing her return to football

A Matilda and AFC Asian Cup Champion, Kylie Ledbrook made her return this season to the Macarthur Rams roster after taking a year off to have a baby, one of the greatest joys one can experience.

For the former Australian representative, it wasn’t easy sitting on the sidelines and watching football but what she experienced was well worth it.

“It’s not easy sitting on the sidelines and watching but being pregnant is a whole new life experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

“Giving birth to a beautiful baby girl, Indii was definitely worth it.”

As with most comebacks it is extremely difficult to find your feet and gain the fitness levels that are needed.

The attacking midfielder’s return was made easier with the support she received from those around her.

Ledbrook has already left her mark upon returning to the PS4 NPL NSW Women’s 1 competition, finding the back of the net on various occasions.

“Coming back was really tough after having a year off but with the support of the coaching staff and my team mates I have been able to score a few goals.”

Playing catch-up, Ledbrook admits there is still a lot of work ahead for her to be playing at the level she wants to be at.

“Our team’s performances has been solid and let’s just say I still have a lot of improving to do.”

The Rams currently sit in first place in the state’s top tier, in the closest competition in years and Ledbrook believes her side possesses enough quality to do very well.

“We have a strong and competitive team and I honestly believe that we can go all the way and win the competition.”

Ledbrook’s rich career saw her represent the National Team at two Under 20 World Cups, the Olympic Games in Athens and the AFC Asian Cup in China in 2010.

The AFC Asian Cup will stick in the memory of Ledbrook, having scored a penalty in the shoot-out Final victory which saw the Matildas crowned Champions of Asia.

Now though, Ledbrook says it’s about her enjoying the game and helping the young blood coming through with her experience.

“Personally I’m just playing to have fun. I’m coming to the end of my career and I just want to enjoy the game I’ve always played and loved and hopefully share some of my experience with the younger players.” 

Two of those young players that Ledbrook identified as having bright futures ahead of them were goalkeeper Jada Mathyssen-Whyman and Elizabeth Ralston.

“Definitely Eliza and Jada are up and comers. They are two young players that have loads of potential and believe they have what it takes to be In a World Cup and Olympics one day.” 

She also has an extra supporter on the sidelines now, one that doesn’t add pressure to her game.

“Indii has come to most games and we’re hoping to get her a little Rams jersey soon. No pressure has been added as I have great support from family and friends who look after her when we are out on the field.”

-By Nikola Pozder