‘I struggled to keep up’: Mackenzie Arnold on the moment she knew she needed help

Matildas superstar goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold has opened up about her health challenge, saying it was only during the Covid pandemic that she realised she needed to ask for help.

Australia win after a very tense penalty shootout during the FIFA Women’s World Cup quarter final between Australia and France at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. Picture: Adam Head

Mackenzie Arnold, aka The Brick Wall, is an Australian professional soccer player who is as a goalkeeper for the Australian women’s national soccer team, The Matildas.

Known for her love of soccer and the electrifying experience of hearing the crowd cheer during a penalty shootout, the Gold Coast-born player faced a challenge during the Covid pandemic when mandatory masks hindered her ability to communicate and lip read.

Prompted by this struggle and encouraged by her family and friends, Mackenzie, 30, who plays in the UK for the Women’s Super League club West Ham United, decided to address her hearing loss last year.

The new-found ability to hear clearly and actively engage in conversations was a transformative moment for Mackenzie.

How did you first become aware of your hearing loss?

During Covid when everyone was wearing masks. It made it difficult for me to communicate properly.

Goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold.

What prompted you to have your hearing checked?

I found guidance from my brother (Sam), who has been deaf his entire life. He shared possible signs of hearing loss that I may be experiencing. This encouraged me to seek treatment.

Who else influenced you to get your hearing checked?

In addition to my brother Sam being my greatest support, my friends and family were very encouraging of my decision to have my hearing tested. I didn’t realise just how much I had put a focus on lip reading until face masks were enforced during Covid and I struggled to keep up with conversations around me.

Why Audika?

The relationship with Audika was such a natural fit. Meeting the wonderful team and being professionally fitted was a highlight. I decided to be fitted at, and become an ambassador for, Audika because I knew I would be supported through the journey being guided by their hearing experts.

In what ways has addressing your hearing loss improved your daily life, both at home and in social or work settings?

Socially, I’m becoming more adept at understanding conversations without needing to ask, “what was that?” as often. Where I used to ask questions because I wasn’t sure what was being said, I’m now able to participate in conversations. I never really understood just how much my hearing had been impacted until I sought help.

Have you noticed a difference in your ability to communicate effectively since addressing your hearing loss?

Yeah of course. I’m much more aware of my surroundings, picking up sounds that I wouldn’t have normally heard before. I haven’t had to repeat myself or ask my friends to repeat themselves either because I’ve missed out on what they’ve said.

Mackenzie Arnold.

How has addressing your hearing loss affected your relationships with family, friends, and teammates? Are there specific instances where you’ve seen positive changes?

I guess when it comes to looking after your health, the changes are always positive. It was something that I should’ve done years ago. Communication-wise I’m much more in tune with conversations around me, which has been great to experience.

Have you observed any positive impacts on your career as a football player?

Funnily enough the greatest impact has been off the pitch and the amount of children and adults who have messaged me to say that they have gone and had their hearing tested.

How has addressing your hearing loss influenced your emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life?

It has been overwhelming in the best possible way. Being supported throughout this process not only by my friends and family, but by the Audika team has made this a great experience. I have consistently felt supported.

What is your favourite sound when on the field?

Nothing can beat the sound of a crowd-filled stadium cheering you on.

What can you hear now that you couldn’t before?

I used to look around when I’d hear background noises to see what it was. That new sound captured my attention but now it’s become the norm.

In one word, what is hearing to you?

Clarity.

Why is hearing so important to you?

Since I have addressed my hearing loss, I’m able to engage in more meaningful ways with my family and friends. Hearing the voices of my loved ones more clearly has been so special.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to others who may be hesitant or unsure about getting their hearing checked?

Having gone through the process myself, I know it can be daunting, and I know it can also be the fear of the unknown. Getting your hearing checked is the first step to understanding what is actually happening with your hearing, and being able to discuss your options to address any loss is a powerful, empowering experience.

In partnership with Audika Hearing Clinic

Originally published as ‘I struggled to keep up’: Mackenzie Arnold on the moment she knew she needed help