Celebrating Female Football Week
As part of EIF, Monique Rechichi explored what it takes to be an elite female footballer. As part of her journey, she interviewed Adelaide United Captain Izzy Hodgson.
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Interview with Izzy Hodgson by Monique Rechichi
What was the most challenging part of transitioning from youth football to professional football, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge for me was adjusting to the physicality, pace, and fitness demands of the professional game. In youth football, you can rely on raw talent, but at the pro level, everyone is fast, strong, and technically sharp — so you have to find that extra edge. I quickly realised that my fitness had to improve if I wanted to compete. That meant doing extra running sessions outside of training, focusing on conditioning, and never cutting corners. I had to work just as hard on my own as I did during team sessions. Over time, those extra efforts paid off, and I started to feel more confident physically, which translated into better performances on the pitch.
Looking back on your career, is there any specific moment or match that had a major impact on your growth as a player?
Absolutely — captaining South Australia to our first-ever national championship was a huge moment for me. It wasn’t just the win itself, but what it represented: belief, leadership, and pushing past limits that had held us back for years. That tournament showed me the power of team culture and accountability, and it was the first time I truly saw myself as a leader on and off the pitch. It gave me the confidence to take on bigger roles later in my career, like captaining Adelaide United and representing Australia at the U21 Asian Cup.
What kind of mindset or mentality do you think is necessary to succeed at the professional level?
Resilience, curiosity, and consistency. You have to be willing to show up every day and give your best, even when you’re tired, injured, or doubting yourself. The pro level will challenge you physically and mentally — it’s not just about talent, it’s about how you respond when things don’t go your way. I’ve learned that staying curious — always looking to improve, ask questions, and learn from others — keeps you evolving. And being consistent in your habits, attitude, and work ethic is what builds trust with your team and coaches.
Can you share any habits or routines that have helped you stay at the top of your game throughout your career?
Absolutely. Recovery has always been a key priority — things like ice baths, stretching, proper sleep, and fuelling my body right. I also have a pre-game mental routine that helps with nerves and focus, including breathing techniques and visualisation. Just as important, though, is knowing when to switch off. Taking time to relax and mentally deload from football has been huge for my longevity. Whether it’s hanging out with friends, getting into nature, or simply doing something completely unrelated to soccer — those moments keep me balanced and help me come back refreshed and motivated.