In the latest of our WA On Wednesday interviews featuring WA NPL Women players, Murdoch University Melville’s Meghan Hulsman had a quick chat with Impetus’ Ben Gilby about her career so far, life at the reigning NPL WA Women’s champions, and the current campaign (25/5/22).
Above: Megan Hulsman (left) in action for Murdoch University Melville against Balcatta Etna. Photo: JASP Photography.
BG: Can you tell us a bit about your footballing journey from how you got into the game to the present day at Murdoch University Melville (MUM)?
MH: I have loved the game since I was very young, always wanting to play at the highest level possible. Seeing the team spirit at MUM is a great personal motivation.
BG: How would you describe yourself as a player?
MH: I like to challenge myself, always looking to play smarter and harder next game.
BG: It’s often said that “you can’t be who you can’t see”. Who were your sporting/soccer idols growing up?
MH: As a junior I watched many players (female and male) always pushing themselves to the next level, which taught me “the harder I work, the luckier I get!”
BG: You represented Western Australia (WA) during your school days, and were selected to the Australia shadow squad in 2018. Can you tell us a bit about that period and what it was like?
MH: It was before I started working, so I was lucky enough to spend most of my spare time training and pushing myself to the highest level I could achieve.
BG: How do you feel last season went for you and your club?
MH: It was a tough season, but I was always looking to improve and challenge others for a regular spot in the first team.
BG: There’s been a bit of a change in personnel at Murdoch University Melville ahead of this season. What was the pre-season and Night Series competition like this year?
MH: Change is always good; you must embrace new thinking and realise the opportunities that are available for younger players like myself and others. The night series was enjoyable, but at the same time disappointing as we never brought home the cup. Murdoch University Melville exited at the group stage, finishing third behind Northern Redbacks and Balcatta Etna.
BG: How do you see this season going for Murdoch University Melville? What are the aims of both yourself personally and the club?
MH: Many words may describe our team, but I think both “developing and positive” are an accurate descriptivist for both the playing and coaching staff.
BG: More widely, how do you view the NPL comp this season in WA?
MH: It’s reassuring to see the positive change in women’s football in WA, rapidly approaching equality with the men’s competitions.
BG: What is the best thing about playing for Murdoch University Melville?
MH: The ability to make my opinions heard without repercussion and feel as if I have been given the opportunity to grow as a leader at MUM and the WNPL.
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