Alongside injuries, Simon reflects that it’s also challenging as a female footballer.

“It's mentally tough. Seeing the game of where it was, and where it has come to, you start to realise that it's not the norm to be underpaid, and there's not that equality.

“I think the game is moving in the right direction, but there is a lot of progression still to be made.

“I touched on the Chezza's [Cheryl Salisbury] and players of that era and what they went through to just represent their country, having to pay their own airfares to get anywhere, and that makes me grateful for what we have.

“At the end of the day, I want to get to a point where footballers only have to worry about football, be a professional athlete, and get remunerated for exactly the amount of hours and time and sacrifice that they've put in.”

Injuries and setbacks don’t define Simon’s career. There’s more to her journey and the legacy she is shaping as one of a few indigenous players to wear the Matildas' cap.

“My aboriginal culture and heritage is something that I'm so privileged and proud to have in my blood.”

“Being the first indigenous male or female to score at a World Cup is an honour for me.

“I speak a lot about being a positive role model for all young girls out there, but especially in the indigenous community when opportunity sometimes is scarce or not as great as in the big cities.

“My message to young indigenous kids is really just to make the most of what you have.

“My parents came from a pretty rough background themselves. They came from very tough childhoods to where they are now and brought us four kids up. You're only as good as what you make of the opportunities that you work for, and that you give yourself."

It’s now a race for Simon to complete her rehab and hope her hunger for selection is rewarded. It’s not an easy challenge, with a new coach and healthy competition for a spot in the squad.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

D A Y 4 3 👊🏾 #roadtofrance2019 📸 @bythewhiteline

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“I'm yet to be a part of the squad due to rehabbing my ankle, but I think it’s only going to bring the best out of everyone and the best out of the team having that positive competition between one another vying for spots.

“No one is in a comfort zone and I think that really brings out the best in anyone's performance. It's up to us as players to rise to the occasion and to go out there and prove ourselves that we should get on the plane to France.

“I have so much confidence and belief in our whole squad. It takes every individual to be a part of the team to make it a successful collective team and I will give myself the best opportunity to be on the plane to France.”