Ahead of the Football Ferns’ meeting with Japan at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on June 10, get to know goalkeeper Erin Nayler and hear all about her footballing journey.

How did you get into football?

My dad coached my brother’s team and I started going along to their trainings when I was about eight or nine. I first went into goal when I was 10 and I remember really enjoying it because I played well and then I continued to play there.

What has been your pathway to international football?

I started off in the New Zealand U-17s environment but I never made it. Then I was fourth or fifth choice goalkeeper for the U20s at the World Cup in Germany. I found my confidence and ended up starting for the U-20 team in Germany and then again in Japan two years later. I played my first senior FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015 and then the Olympics in 2016 in Rio. Last season, I was signed with Olympique Lyonnais in France and this season I moved to Girondins de Bordeaux where I have seen a lot more game time.

Who inspired you when growing up to be an international footballer?

My parents inspired me and helped me to believe in my goals. I always aspired to be like Hope Solo, the USA women’s national team goalkeeper and, a few years later, I was playing against her.

What does it mean to you to wear the Football Ferns shirt?

The shirt represents all that has helped me to become a Fern. All the hard work and setbacks that went into me being able to represent the shirt. I am extremely proud of our small country and our unity as a team.

What has been your biggest setback and how did you overcome this?

My biggest setback was probably my first professional experience. I was signed to Sky Blue in the US, I didn't see any game time and was released after just three weeks of being there. It helped me to grow as a player, especially mentally.

What would be your message to kids aspiring to be a Football Fern?

Always believe in yourself. Believe that with hard work and persistence you can achieve your goals. Don’t let other people affect your mentality, stay focused and learn from your mistakes.

How would you describe the Football Ferns as a team?

We are probably one of the strongest teams in terms of unity. We all get on really well and we all work for each other. We have fun at times but we also know how to work extremely hard. We have shared so many experiences as a team that we will never forget.

What opportunities away from the field has football provided you?

I am very grateful for my supportive parents and family. They have always helped me to achieve my goals. I’ve always been lucky to have great goalkeeper coaches. Danny Robinson worked with me for the majority of those years and made me strong, both mentally and physically. I have also been supported via a Prime Minister’s Scholarship which allowed me to pursue and obtain a degree in biology alongside my football commitments.

What personal traits do you think you have developed from playing football which you believe will help you through life?

I think I am mentally strong enough to overcome any obstacles that life throws in my way. I have learned that confidence can take you a long way also.

To purchase tickets for the Football Ferns vs Japan at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on June 10 please click here