FOOTBALL: Chloe Logarzo’s football journey began like many other young girls, at the ripe old age of five at the local football club with her dad as the coach.
Little did she know that she may one day be lacing up her boots and preparing to take the field at the Olympic Games.
But for the 21-year-old, going to Rio as part of the women’s football team, the Matildas, only became a reality in the past year.
“I think I have stepped up my football game and matured not only as a person but on the football field,” Logarzo said.
“I debuted in 2013 but I think now in 2016 I have full confidence in my ability and my role in the team.”
Logarzo said 2016 has been a massive year with a tour to South Korea, a number of Australian camps and of course the side qualifying for their first Olympic Games since 2004.
The Aussies defeated Japan, Vietnam, South Korea, North Korea and drew with fellow qualifier China to ensure they will be one of 12 teams competing at the 2016 Games.
“As a team it has been a long time since we have qualified for the Olympics and only Lisa de Vanna has been to an Olympics so as a unit we are all excited.
“My childhood dream is so close yet so far and I just cannot wait for us to be in Rio.”
The feisty forward started her senior career with Sydney FC in the W-League for the 2011/12 season and went on to make 48 appearances for the Sky Blues, before joining the Newcastle Jets for the 2015–16 season.
It was her pace, skill and eye for goal that caught the attention of Australia selectors and ultimately earned her a place in the Matildas squad.
But Logarzo is keen to chase her next goal, becoming anOlympian, which would help her live out her childhood dream.
She puts achieving that dream down to hard work and sacrifices.
“You don't know really how much you have to give up until you are here but I wouldn't change it for the world.”
Speaking on goals for Rio, Logarzo was clear with the intentions of the green and gold side.
“As a team we only want to strive for the best and come home with a medal,” she said.
Logarzo said the Australian side are in good spirits at the moment, keeping their “heads down, bums up” and working hard to not let the enormity of the Olympics get the better of them.
She knows in order to achieve the team goal, Logarzo needs to fulfil her individual role.
“Personally I would like to be a consistent player and do my individual job for the team.”
Logarzo said what she loves about football is the connection she feels with her teammates.
“Football can bring common people together to strive for the same goal and achieve great things.
“In the process playing football has become like a home away from home. My teammates are my family.”
This week Logarzo and the locally-based Matildas squad have been training at AIS, focusing on fitness and core structure before they head overseas and begin the road to Rio gold.
Ashleigh Knight
olympics.com.au
