Canberra United’s Chloe Middleton is one of many players who experience a hectic seasonal calendar.
During the winter months, the 26-year-old plies her trade with the Illawarra-based Stingrays before travelling to Canberra to take part in the A-League Women’s season in the warmer weather. Despite just a four-week turnaround, it’s a schedule that the versatile midfielder relishes.
“I really enjoy playing both seasons because you get to play with different people,” Middleton explained.
“It’s harder. It pushes you to work harder and be better, and you’re surrounded by such great players who have so much experience, and they’re both great in so many ways.
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According to Middleton, the NPL NSW competition has become a lot stronger in recent years with an influx of ALW players now taking part in the competition. The increased quality of football means a tough challenge every week and offers great preparation for the ALW season while aiding player development.
The former Western Sydney Wanderer believes that playing with seasoned ALW players at the Stingrays has significantly benefited her game. Middleton singled out her partnership with Wanderers’ icon Caitlin Cooper in the midfield as an example.
“I learn from her, so I think that’s a big factor as well having those experienced players around you who help you move forward and become more confident in your own game,” Middleton said.
“It allows you to work on your own game a little bit more and you can focus on trying different things that you wouldn’t normally try, and I think that that really helps with your confidence.”
Middleton also argued that the NPL NSW Women is giving players who are on the cusp of ALW football a chance to showcase their talent. With the state-based competition preceding the ALW campaign, players can be scouted by top-flight sides ahead of the start of the season.
This system saw Middleton given a shot in the ALW with Western Sydney Wanderers. While not playing regularly in her two years there, Middleton believes being in an environment with high-quality players has been a huge help to her development as a footballer.
“The way they act at training, they’re always happy to answer your questions,” she said.
“If I had a question about something they were more than happy to help or show me something I was unsure about and, just being involved in game situations at training. You learn from the things that they do by watching.”
Middleton is yet to feature for Canberra United in the ALW in 2022/23 with the side winless in their first two matches following draws against Perth Glory and Brisbane Roar.
Feature Image Credit: David Jordan
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