Matildas coach Joe Montemurro has publicly praised star player Mary Fowler for her courageous decision to speak openly about her mental health struggles in her newly released book 'Bloom'. The 22-year-old playmaker, currently recovering from an ACL tear, has revealed deeply personal challenges from her teenage years in France.
Revealing Personal Struggles
In her recently published book 'Bloom', Fowler detailed her experiences with mental health difficulties, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts during her time with French club Montpellier as a teenager. The revelations have sparked important conversations about mental health in professional sports.
Montemurro expressed his admiration for Fowler's bravery during a media briefing on Monday. "We need to applaud the fact that she's been able to face those issues... it's so courageous to talk about these things and to come up with it," the coach stated.
Support System for Athletes
The Matildas coach emphasized the critical importance of maintaining constant contact with players, revealing he has personally visited team members at their clubs to ensure their wellbeing. This approach reflects Football Australia's commitment to player support both during national team camps and throughout their club commitments.
"The biggest thing that we can do as FA and the people supporting these players is to just be there if they need, to talk to them, if they need something... we're there to help them," Montemurro explained.
Road to Recovery and Return
Fowler's physical recovery continues to progress positively, with the young star expected to return in January from the ACL injury she suffered in April. Despite being capable of returning after seven months, the decision has been made to extend her recovery timeline slightly.
"It's amazing. Obviously being in the City environment and us monitoring it and her coming into camp last time was perfect," Montemurro commented on her rehabilitation progress.
The strategic approach to her return means Fowler will remain with Manchester City during the upcoming Australian window, with plans for her to be fully prepared for the Asian Cup in March. The extended recovery period accounts for the European Christmas break and ensures she has adequate preparation time.
Montemurro highlighted the careful management of Fowler's return, noting that she'll have a "fairly good runway" into the Asian Cup, with opportunities to gradually build playing minutes in Europe's busy football calendar.
