Abigail Inman, the under-16s goalkeeper for South Coast Flame, has joined the Illawarra Academy of Sport (IAS), taking another step towards her "wildest dream" – representing her country in professional football.

Abigail's interest in sport started at age four and from the get-go soccer stood out as her primary passion. 

“I was involved in Nippers, dancing, cricket, basketball and karate, but my love was soccer,” Abigail said.

“I don’t have a clue what my life would look like without it.”

Subsequently, she spent nearly nine years playing at club level before elevating her competitive spirit by joining a representative soccer team, the South Coast Flame.

“In my club environment, many of the girls there didn’t share the same love for the game that I did,” Abigail said.

“When I moved to Flame, everyone from players, coaches and even parents had that same passion and love.

“It was a much better environment to be in as a player.”

Upon arriving at Flame tryouts, Abigail initially presented herself as a midfielder and a goalkeeper, but with no intention of playing in goal. However, after a few goalie drills, she hasn't looked back.

“I went down to trial for both midfield and goalkeeper because my Dad told me keeper would be my best chance at getting a spot,” Abigail said.

“They told me to chuck the gloves on and I did a couple drills with the goalkeeper coach and when they asked if I wanted to go on the field, I said, ‘Nuh! I want to stay in goals'.”

Since her tryout, Abigail has demonstrated remarkable progress in her second year with the Flame, earning the title of the 'most improved player' on the team in 2023. Recognising her talents, the team's technical director nominated Abigail for the Talent Support Program run by Football New South Wales and she secured a spot for 2024.

With her dedication to the sport and a desire to continuously step up her game, Abigail was drawn to the IAS. In her first year, she believes the academy's resources have given her a chance to professionalise her passion for soccer.

“I want to do everything I can to become the best athlete I can be and that means trying out all the resources I have available to me and that is IAS,” Abigail said.

“IAS has given me strength and conditioning programs that have significantly improved my overall strength and motivation to go to the gym three, four times a week.

“They have taught me about nutrition, sports science, rest days and character building, and I am excited to bring my knowledge to my team and my sport.”

In 2024, Abigail has set ambitious goals for herself, aspiring to clinch victory in finals with her team and secure a spot in the state public school team. Additionally, she aims to gain exposure and enhance her leadership skills.

“I want to receive opportunities through the IAS to develop my leadership skills,” Abigail said.

“I’d also like to have further exposure to teams like Junior Matildas, Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers.”

Abigail's aspirations exceed her local achievements. Following a life-changing tour to the UK with her team, during which the players experienced premier facilities and renowned clubs, her ultimate goal is to turn professional and represent her country on the international stage.

“I learned what it would be like to live a professional football lifestyle with the training and games every day and long bus rides,” Abigail said.

“My absolute biggest and wildest dream is to go professional and do the thing I love for a living and I want to represent my country.”