Sydney FC star, Roselands teacher Teresa Polias thrilled about Matildas recall
Schoolteacher and football star Teresa Polias is excited to be recalled to the Matildas after four years for the Cup of Nations, which kicks off at Leichhardt on Thursday.
Schoolteacher and football star Teresa Polias is excited to be recalled to the Matildas after four years for the Cup of Nations, which kicks off at Leichhardt on Thursday.
The diminutive midfielder, who was called up by new Matildas coach Ante Milicic, is coming off a successful season, having captained Sydney FC to the W-League title last week.
However Polias, 28, is undecided whether to become a football professional, saying she loves her teaching job at McCallums Hill Public School, Roselands.
“It was a very big surprise to be called up to the Matildas because I hadn’t been in the squad for some time,” said Polias, who has 10 caps.
“It will be very challenging because I will be in an elite environment. I am not the biggest or the fastest on the field so I try and keep my game simple.”
Polias, who is known for her ability to read the game well, could be an ace for the Matildas.
They face New Zealand, Argentina and South Korea in the competition held in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.
Polias, whose twin sister Susie played football for a while, said she owed a lot to her elder brother Anthony who helped her develop her competitive style of play.
“I started playing football for Rockdale Raiders when I was six and have always loved the game,” Polias said.
“However, I don’t think I will be a professional player at my age.
“I also want to pursue my teaching and I thank my school, colleagues, students and my family for their support because without them I wouldn’t be where I am.
“They allowed me to follow my dream and I am so lucky.”
Having made her first class debut against Melbourne Victory in 2008, Polias has been a vital cog of the Sydney FC team.
Milicic told reporters he is that he’s keen to start working with the group.
“It is important that we make the most of the next two weeks that we have together both on and off the pitch,” he said.
“With matches and travel in quick succession throughout the Cup of Nations, this tournament will replicate some of the demands that we will experience at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France, which will be a good test for everyone involved.”
Melbourne Victory defender and former NewsLocal Junior Sports Star Teigen Allen, who last played for the Matildas three years ago, has also been recalled, on the back of her W-League form
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