Football Australia chief executive James Johnson has written to the Matildas Alumni group recognising their "immense contribution to the game" and apologising for any distress they had felt by being largely ignored in the lead up to the FIFA Women's World Cup.
Two weeks ago, several former Matildas spoke to The Ticket describing their disappointment at not being included in FIFA celebrations marking the 100-day countdown event, despite being part of the 50-year journey that has made the Matildas one of the country's favourite teams and culminating in Australia co-hosting of the sport's biggest showcase.
Friday's email to the former players, seen by the ABC, also confirmed an allocation of tickets has been secured for the Alumni to Matildas World Cup group games.
"The Matildas Alumni group is an integral part of the football family, and we deeply value the contributions which you have made to Australian football, particularly in advancing women's football across the nation and laying the foundation for our success today," Johnson wrote.
"We are aware of the distress which the ticketing situation for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 has caused this group and will continue to raise this with FIFA, which controls tournament ticketing.
"While our endeavours on behalf of the Matildas Alumni have not been communicated broadly to the public, and we apologise if this has contributed to some of the distress which you have experienced, rest assured that from the very beginning, Football Australia has been unwavering in its commitment to ensure that you are granted access to the Matildas group stage matches.
"This is our heartfelt way of recognising and appreciating your immense contribution to the game.
"We are therefore thrilled to confirm that we have successfully secured an allocation of tickets from FIFA for multiple group stage matches featuring our incredible Matildas at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023."
With only 12 weeks to the World Cup kick off, the email went on to say there would be further opportunities for "more meaningful reunions, celebratory events, and engaging activities".
In the past two weeks, the Matildas Alumni have been overwhelmed by an outpouring of support from members of the public who contacted them after hearing their recollections of how the Matildas story began, including a trip to Chinese Taipei for an invitational tournament in 1978 – where the players sewed Australian patches on their tracksuits while waiting at the airport to depart.
It's been a good week for the Matildas Alumni. On top of the public's response, the Australian Professional Leagues invited some to attend this Sunday's A-League grand final between Western United and Sydney FC, and now — all who chose to do so — will be able to acquire tickets to the World Cup.
For the respect shown, Matilda's Alumni spokesperson and Matilda number 26 Renaye Iserief said simply, "this news is most welcome".
Australia's opening match is against Ireland on July 20 at Stadium Australia in Sydney, and amongst the sell-out crowd will be a group of up to 200 women who embody the entire history of the Matildas.
It's sure to be quite a night.
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