Young gun Kiceec enjoying APIA experience
After a strong run of recent form, we spoke to up and coming APIA Leichhardt young gun Christina Kiceec on her latest performances, being in the Young Matildas camp and her goals for the future.
Kiceec is currently excelling for APIA in the NPL Women’s NSW competition, where her side sits eighth on the table, while progressing to the Sapphire Cup final.
“We have had a rocky season so far, lots of ups and downs and some inconsistency with our results,” she said.
“Although the NPL Women’s NSW season hasn’t gone the way we’ve wanted so far, we have done excellent to make the Sapphire Cup Final which I belief we have worked hard for and deserved.
“I have learnt a lot so far through the season from Brad (Attard) and from the players around me mentally and technically.”
Kiceec has been a constant feature throughout the league and APIA’s cup run, which comes as no surprise after she made the Young Matildas squad in January this year.
“Being selected for the Young Matildas earlier this year was super exciting me and a great opportunity to get to learn off more experienced girls and also catch up with some friends I haven’t seen in a while,” she said.
“As I was a standby for the squad, getting the call to come in last minute was definitely a shock, but something I would never turn down.
“We got to experience playing against different countries which was a nice challenge.
“The Young Matildas has become a very comfortable environment as all the girls get along with each other, and there is lots of support staff available.”
Playing some fantastic football for APIA recently, Kiceec gave an intelligent answer when asked about the causes of her recent form.
“As the season has gone on, I’ve definitely built confidence and my teammates around me have made it easy for me to feel comfortable – playing with good and experienced players has motivated me to be better,” said the young star.
“On top of that, training with the Future Matildas has been very beneficial and helped me get exposure to a more professional environment.
“The intensity of the sessions has improved my skills immensely and I’m hoping I can bring that to the squad at APIA.”
Looking forward, Kiceec has her eyes set on an A-League Women’s opportunity for the upcoming campaign.
“My goals in football have always been to go overseas and play, and also play for the Matildas,” she said.
“But as for the near future I’m definitely hoping to play A-League to further my development.”
Kiceec and APIA will take on league leaders Mt Druitt Town Rangers on Sunday evening in what promises to be an exhilarating clash at Lambert Park. Watch the match live and free from 5pm on Football NSW’s YouTube channel.
