From opposition analysis to player meditation, senior coach Michelle Cowan says Fremantle’s AFLW side will be ready for Saturday’s historic round one clash against the Western Bulldogs.
Cowan addressed the media at Perth Airport before her side flew to Melbourne on Friday morning, and felt confident that her coaching group and players had left nothing to chance.
The players even arrived at Perth Airport well ahead of departure, to ensure they didn’t miss the all-important flight.
“The girls were all here very early and on time, so I think they’re really excited and ready to go,” Cowan said.
“I’m happy with our preparation.”
“It’s an exciting time for everyone, but to look back and reflect on how far we’ve come is also really important, and to acknowledge those who have worked really hard to get us to this moment.”
Cowan is hopeful of a big crowd at VU Whitten Oval, and has taken steps to make sure the moment doesn’t overawe.
“We want to prepare for that crowd and mentally visualise everything that could possibly happen,” Cowan said.
“The girls even did a meditation session as a part of our preparation, so I feel really confident that they’re aware of what to expect when they arrive in Melbourne.”
While the Bulldogs are expected to pose as a big test, Cowan says the key to a Fremantle win comes from mastering everything under their own control.
“We’ve got to play our way, and the girls have trained really well for the last 11 weeks,” Cowan said.
“Everyone’s really confident in playing their role, so we’ll be good if we can stick to what we’re about.”
“(The Bulldogs) have some proven players on their team, and so do we. I think it’ll be a really good contest and I think the spectators will enjoy it.”
Win or lose, Cowan is happy knowing that at the end of the day, football will benefit.
“It’s a significant moment for every little girl who’s played football before, and it’s a significant moment for our club, and for the history of the game,” Cowan said.
“It’s been incredible this week, and we’ve had fantastic support from the purple faithful at the club, and even bigger than that is the external support from the fans.”
“It’s been really amazing, and probably overwhelming, but the girls deserve it and I’m glad they’re getting the support.”
HOW TO WATCH FREMANTLE'S UPCOMING AFLW GAMES
Round 1. Western Bulldogs v Fremantle, 4:40pm (WST) Saturday 4 February at VU Whitten Oval
Broadcast live nationally on 7mate and Fox Footy
Round 2. Fremantle v Brisbane, 4:05pm (WST) Sunday 12 February (WST) at Fremantle Oval
With free entry, there's every reason to get down to Fremantle Oval to support Freo in their first game at home!
AFLW fixture and broadcast information
