Matildas coach Joe Montemurro has praised Mary Fowler for her “courageous” decision to publicly discuss her mental health struggles. The 22-year-old playmaker, who is on the road to recovery from an ACL tear sustained in April, has been open about her experiences with mental health challenges, including self-harm and suicidal thoughts, during her time at French club Montpellier.
Fowler’s recent book, Bloom, delves into these personal battles, shedding light on the pressures faced by professional athletes. “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,” Montemurro stated. He emphasized the importance of openness and honesty in addressing mental health issues, particularly in the high-pressure environment of professional sports.
The Pressures of Professional Sports
The announcement comes as mental health awareness continues to gain traction in the sports world. Montemurro highlighted the intense pressures that athletes face, noting that Fowler’s willingness to share her story is a testament to her strength. “The more we talk about it, the more it’s out in the open, the more that we’re honest about it, I think is amazing,” he said.
Fowler’s journey is not just a personal triumph but also a reflection of a broader movement towards mental health advocacy in sports. Athletes like Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka have similarly spoken out about their struggles, sparking important conversations about the mental well-being of sportspeople.
Support Systems in Place
Montemurro stressed the importance of maintaining “constant contact” with players to ensure they have the support they need. “The biggest thing that we can do as FA [Football Australia] 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,” he explained.
This development follows a growing recognition of the need for robust support systems for athletes, both on and off the field. Montemurro’s approach reflects a commitment to providing holistic care, ensuring that players like Fowler have access to the necessary resources and support networks.
Fowler’s Road to Recovery
Meanwhile, Fowler is nearing a return to the field. She joined the Matildas’ last training camp and will remain with Manchester City as she prepares for the upcoming window in Australia. “We’ve said it all along — she actually could have probably come back after seven months and she’s doing really, really well,” Montemurro noted.
The decision to delay her return until after the Christmas break is strategic, allowing her ample time to fully recover and prepare for the Asian Cup in March. “Because you’re going into the Christmas break … and then to start up again, is probably the logical thing to do — to hold her off until after Christmas and then I’m sure she’ll be right for the Asian Cup,” Montemurro added.
Looking Ahead
As Fowler continues her recovery, the focus remains on her well-being and readiness for future competitions. The Matildas and Manchester City are working closely to manage her minutes strategically, ensuring she has a “fairly good runway into the Asian Cup.”
Fowler’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and support within the sports community. Her courage in sharing her experiences not only inspires others but also highlights the critical need for ongoing dialogue and action in addressing mental health challenges in professional sports.
