Collingwood captain Steph Chiocci reveals toll of juggling AFLW demands with full time job

COLLINGWOOD captain Steph Chiocci has revealed the pressure of juggling the demands of AFLW with her career as a schoolteacher, as she prepares for tonight’s State of Origin clash.

Steph Chiocci has revealed the toll of her first season in AFLW. Picture: Michael Klein

WHEN Collingwood Magpies captain Steph Chiocci ran on to the field in the inaugural match of the AFLW season this year, it was a moment she’ll never forget.

“It was an amazing first season and really put women’s sport on the map in Australia,” Chiocci, 28, said.

“It’s something I’ll be able to reflect on at the end of my career.”

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Steph Chiocci has revealed the toll of her first season in AFLW. Picture: Michael Klein

Yet off the field, Chiocci admitted the new-found scrutiny that women players faced could take a toll.

She revealed she’s sought the guidance of a psychologist to help her deal with the pressure, stress and anxiety of the AFLW.

“Just dealing with the day-to-day stuff that’s thrown at you and the expectations and pressures — I found it really beneficial to see a psychologist,” she said.

During the season, Chiocci balanced her work commitments as a teacher at Parkdale Secondary College with training sessions and match days.

“I like to think I’m pretty organised, but it was challenging at times,” Chiocci said

“I was getting up around 7am for work and sometimes earlier if I was coaching, and then I’d get home around 11pm. It was long days, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Chiocci is passionate about raising awareness around mental health and providing support to others who may be facing tough times.

“I’m proud to talk about that,” she said.

“It’s really important that people know there is help out there and you just need to reach out.”

For the past two years, Chiocci has been a supporter of Liptember, a month-long campaign that aims to bring awareness to women’s mental health and raise funds for women’s mental health research and support services.

“It’s OK to admit that you do need a bit of help,” Chiocci said.

“Mental health is a society issue and we need to make sure we’re putting it out there so it can be accepted and we can help people with those issues.”

**Supported by Chemist Warehouse, the campaign encourages people to wear bright lipstick.

To support Liptember visit liptember.com.au for more details.