By Alesha Capone
MY WYNDHAM: Werribee Football Club captain Michael Sodomaco chats with Alesha Capone.
How long have you been captain of the team?
I think it’s been about five years. And this will be my 10th season at the club, I debuted in 2009.
What do you like about your role?
I think it’s the changes over time. I think, initially, that I wanted to play football at the highest level that I could, but then life changes and you finish university and start working, and football becomes a bit of a release from the worries and stress of life. As you get older, you enjoy working with the younger blokes and seeing them get out of the club, what I’ve gotten out of the club. I love game day, and the adrenaline – and the friendships within the team, I make 20 new friends every year. I really enjoy the social aspect too.
What have been the highlights for you, across the years?
I reckon any final is always great, however last year – in our first year as a stand-alone club – we made our first final, as a stand-alone club. Hopefully we have set the club up so this can become our basis as normal, not the exception. I think the first final win as a stand-alone club, the effort that went into that and the hard work people put in, is amazing.
How often do you train during the season?
We usually do three training sessions a week, also gym sessions a couple of times per week – which you can do after training or in your own time.
What is the biggest challenge of being a footballer – is it maintaining that work life/balance?
The biggest challenge is managing that balance, for sure. When you change job or move house, when you have something else going on – particularly with footy – your time becomes quite busy.
What advice do you have for youngsters wanting to follow in your footsteps?
I would say, just keep making it fun. The more fun it is, the longer you’ll play, and the longer you play, the better you will get. And find a way to enjoy training.
What would you say to the Wyndham community?
Come down and support us, we’re really taking pride in representing Werribee and the western region now we’re a stand-alone club. Our first game of the season will be held under lights at Avalon Airport Oval, hopefully we’ll put on a good show.
