Tara Murray
Williamstown Football Club always remained close to Danica Pederson’s heart even when she wasn’t involved.
An inaugural player in the Seagulls’ Victorian Football League Women’s side, Pederson made the move to Collingwood for the 2022 season.
After a serious knee injury ended her season with the Magpies, Pederson wasn’t sure what her football future looked like.
But when her old club came calling, Pederson was quick to jump at the opportunity to re-join the Seagulls.
“To be honest, I held Williamstown close in my heart,” she said. ”I didn’t want to leave in the first place.
“There were circumstances and Collingwood offered me a contract and it aligned up with a few things.
“I did my ACL and was in contact with Willy after the season and they were keen to get me back. I said 100 per cent I would love to get back.”
The opportunity to do some coaching at the Seagulls was a big part of the decision to return to the Seagulls, with coaching likely in her footballing future.
Pederson said the opportunity to coach gave her something to look forward to while she can’t fully train.
“Williamstown is giving me the opportunity to coach at 28,” she said. “It keeps me in the game and gives me a purpose.
“Not many people get those opportunities. I’m not physically able to play, but I can physically be part of it which is fulfilling.”
Pederson returns to Williamstown having achieved a childhood dream of playing for Collingwood. She said it was unreal being involved in the club that she had supported as a child.
Pederson is hoping to play a part for the Seagulls on field next year.
“I’m on track, but I don’t want to jinx it,” she said.
“Fingers crossed I make it for next season. I have goals that I want to reach.”
Pederson will work closely with new senior coach Liam Cavanagh which is something the defender is looking forward to.
She said they had previously spoken about her playing under Cavanagh at his old club Coburg.
“Liam and I had a few conversations earlier this year about going to Coburg as a local player,” she said.
“Unfortunately it didn’t happen. When I signed with Willy he was going through the interview process and before every interview I would wish him luck.
“I’ve caught up with Liam a couple of times after he got the job. I think he’s the right person to take the club forward.”
Pederson said there was a lot of positivity at the club after a season which resulted in just two wins.
She said things were being put in place to build a successful women’s program at the club.
“There’s so much potential,” she said. “Things are being put in place to help the side become a powerhouse.”
