Powell: “I miss the banter, changerooms, smiles and more”

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It was never meant to be this way for returning National Premier Leagues NSW Men’s star and former Golden Boot award winner Blake Powell after his time in the A-League and playing overseas, signing for the Sutherland Sharks only to see his season stall.

Like everyone else across the globe, COVID-19 has had major impacts on the everyday lives whether it be their health, work and life in general has changed drastically.

For Powell, the power of playing the game he loves has left a huge absence in his day to day routine.

“Personally, it has taken away football from me for now which is devastating.

“Football has been a massive part of my life and without being around that team environment four times a week makes it feel very strange.

“I am just taking all the precautionary measures to make sure my family and I remain safe.

“It’s very sad to see just how many people’s lives have been affected.

“I am feeling very grateful that I still have a job to go to.”

Powell has been fortunate that his job with major electricity distribution company AUSGRID has continued amidst the postponement of the NPL NSW Men’s competition thus far.

“As I said, I am forever grateful that I still have a job to go to as it still gives me the opportunity to provide for my family as well as keeps my routine in check.

“I know that since the football lockdown I have been trying to self-isolate as best as possible whilst keeping up with my training schedule.”

The Sutherland born attacker, who was given the honour of skippering the squad for the 2020 season, like so many teams, is following a rigorous training program set by the club.

“We have been given home fitness and football programs to keep us in check during this tough period which has been very helpful.

“I have also been able to transform my garage into a makeshift gym for strength sessions so that’s been good in terms of changing things around as well as setting up drills in my backyard.”

The 28-year-old stated that the absence of not being with his teammates has been a huge loss as well as missing the banter that is always healthy at the Shire based club.

“For sure the main thing I do miss is just being around the boys in the changeroom that is full of quality banter.

“Just hearing the jokes, laughs and seeing everyone smile is a loss.

“Not training with them and not being able to put hard work with them all towards our objectives of winning matches is also another aspect I miss about not being able to play.”

Powell believes that people’s self-discipline with what is happening is what will get us through this tough period.

“My message to the football family is I want everyone to remain calm and to practice social distancing and good hygiene because if we all play our part, we can limit the spread of this disease and be back playing the game we all love a lot sooner.”

Powell utilising what he has in his backyard keeping himself fit and healthy