Tara Meyer, one of Australia’s most experienced players: “It will be my 7th WFC”

Tara Meyer (team Australia) doesn’t need to travel far for the upcoming WFC, as she’s living in Switzerland.

We spoke with the 31-year-old forward, who’s celebrating her birthday today.

How and when did you start playing floorball?

I first started playing floorball at the end of 2005. I was 16 years old and playing field hockey at the time. I thought floorball would be a good off-season sport but soon it became my priority and passion.

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When did you join the national team?

I have been in the Australian national team for the past 12 years. I was first selected in the Australian national team for the World Chamipionships in 2007. This upcoming WFC will be my 7th championship.

You’re currently living and playing in Switzerland, how is the season going so far?

To be honest, this season has presented me with a number of different challenges and unexpected changes. I recently changed teams [from Zug United to Red Lions Frauenfeld, both Swiss NLA], and although still in the NLA, having to adopt to a new playing style and system took me a little longer than I would have liked.

With that in mind, I have used it as a learning experience to take into camp having to readopt to the Aussie Team’s system of play. It’s also given me a new perspective to help our newer players coming into the team for the first time.

What are the main differences between playing in Switzerland compared to Australia?

The general level of play is higher in Switzerland. Most players have been playing since they were really young so already have the basic skills required for a faster and more physical game. Overall the level of professionalism and commitment is also much higher in Switzerland compared to Australia.

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Another benefit of playing in Switzerland is the constant opportunity to play against and with players from many European National teams.

How is your personal and team preparation for the WFC?

Playing here in Switzerland, I am training 3-4 times a week and playing 1-2 games each weekend. Along with any personal training I do. Before the WFC, the Australian national team will meet up in Finland for an intensive training camp at Eerikkila Sport Institute.

Our training camp is a critical element in our preparation. Unlike most European countries who are able to take full advantage of the International Weekends and have their players come together, with our team being spread out not only across Australia but also Europe, this is our first and only time to all be together in the one location.

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It is not only about team cohesion but our time to put our game plan into action and develop stronger links in our play.

You play against the USA, Thailand, and Singapore. What do you think of the opponents?

One of our goals for the tournament is to finish at the top of our pool. Having had the opportunity to play against both Thailand and Singapore earlier this year and at past events, we know they both come in prepared having played in events such as the SEA games prior to the WFC.

Having only played the USA once in 2005, they will be a new challenge who we have been doing our homework on. That said I’m confident with the ability of my team and how the management are preparing us.

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Daniël Nicolai Member since May 17, 2016

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COFOUNDER - Passionate about (playing and watching) floorball. Working on social media and match reports. Always looking for new ideas, improvements and creative ways to spread floorball. You'll read about it!