The powerful defender played through an era when the Matildas were an after-thought. Financially, media wise and even in their playing kits (there weren’t female cuts of kits, so baggy Socceroo kits were the norm).

The difficulties she faced means Forman is ecstatic that times have changed; both for the Matildas and women’s football in general. But some challenges still remain.

“I definitely feel like a pioneer," she said.

“I do believe that the kids of today understand the road we walked and the struggles we endured to play football and to represent our country.

“There is still a long way to go within the women's game, there are many who still need to juggle work, study, and football at the same time to make ends meet."

Forman’s career grew out of an era that was a much simpler time.

“My memories from playing football in Australia are mostly from the start with Raymond Terrace, they were the good old days where football was just football.

“Otherwise my fondest and most treasured memories are the ones from the national team. Playing for Australia was everything I ever dreamed of, so every time I wore the Matildas jersey it was very special.

“With two World Cups, an Olympics and numerous other tournaments around the world with the Matildas under my belt, I am humble and honoured to have experienced my football dream.”

 

Australia is rightly in the mix for the World Cup later this year.

Though the biggest story in the last couple of weeks - the sacking of coach Alen Stajcic - has cast a shadow over the side, Forman remains cautious when assessing what happened.

“My only concern is for the team itself in a World Cup year, it could not have come at a worse time.

“Us on the outside know nothing, so I cannot jump to conclusions about what has happened and I do not care to do so, it's not in my nature to pre-judge what I think has happened or what the problem is or was.

“I only hope that the decision made was a correct decision based on facts and for the betterment of the team at the end of the day."