Call a doctor – we’ve got green and gold fever! How WSLHD staff and patients are supporting the Matildas

From desks covered with merchandise to excited chat in hospital corridors, Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is buzzing following the news that the Australian women’s soccer team has progressed to the semi-finals in the 2023 Women’s FIFA World Cup.

Katica Siric, Blacktown and Mount Druitt Hospital (BMDH) Patient Experience Manager, is brimming with pride, telling The Pulse it’s not just about the success of the team, but the sense of community the World Cup has created.

“They’ll do us proud no matter what,” Katica said.

“It’s great how the game has brought us all together.”

Katica is a big soccer fan, and enjoys the sport no matter the level.

Her workspace is a beacon of green and gold in the BMDH offices, and Katica says she is especially proud to support a women’s team at such an elite level.

Meanwhile, Samantha Tate, Head of Podiatry at Westmead Hospital, is even jumping on board the Matildas hype despite her British citizenship.

Working in the Podiatry Ward, she says the World Cup has been such an exciting talking point among patients.

“I think at this present time, particularly post-COVID, it’s so great to have something to really look forward to – particularly when it comes in the form of a World Cup, and especially a women’s World Cup.

“There are relatively limited amounts of other sports that are occurring that are as big as women’s football on a world stage and I think because we got into the semifinals as Australia, that kind of hype is just increasing.

“I will be supporting Australia because I only got my citizenship about 18 months ago and I much prefer my Australian citizenship to my British!”

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) has launched a guest WiFi channel for all patients and visitors to provide free streaming of the Matildas game tonight. Click here for more information on how to access the WiFi.