After a Football Fern career spanning 10 years, Bindon – currently the fifth on the list of all-time Ferns representatives with 77 international caps – says the call of family was simply too strong.
“It was extremely tough to make the decision,” Bindon says, “my mind would play football forever but the body is also a part of that.”
“The plan was to go Rio [2016 Olympic Games] but I’m moving on with the next chapter and it’s time for me to be with my young family.”
Bindon, fittingly speaking from the South Island on holiday with those closest to her, says her family and friends have played a pivotal role in her life on the pitch.
“Family is important to me and I’ve been fortunate to have my family in America and my new family in New Zealand around and supporting me. It wasn’t just me at the World Cups, I was representing them too.”
With 86 appearances in the New Zealand shirt since 2004, Bindon is well placed to chart the progression of a Football Ferns side which has risen to 16th in the world.
“The biggest change is that girls have become professional. The attitude adjustment into the vision of what the Ferns have become has been huge. The athletes are now reaping the rewards of being a professional.
“I’m so proud to be a part of it, not just as an individual but it’s been a great team effort. You dream about being involved in things like what I’ve experienced.”
Her time at the top includes trips to multiple FIFA events in recent years as the Ferns hauled themselves into the world limelight.
“The opportunity to represent New Zealand twice at Olympics and twice at the World Cup is special and so were our first big wins in the Cyprus Cup. They were massive wins on the world stage and confirmed we could compete at that level.”
Football Ferns coach Tony Readings highlighted the wonderful contribution of a player who has been a key cog in the set up of the New Zealand side.
“Over the time she has been in our group the team has improved tremendously and Jenny herself has followed that same curve of development,” Readings said.
“Jenny has played a big role in the progression of our team and she has also raised the level of women’s goalkeeping in New Zealand.
“Her legacy includes not only her achievements on the pitch but also setting a higher standard for future New Zealand goalkeepers to follow.”
Bindon, who works as Sports Development Manager at Pinehurst School in Albany, paid tribute to the coaches who have underpinned her time at the top level, adding she will look to follow their lead when the time is right.
“I want to thank the coaches who have been part of my career, especially goalkeeper coaches like Simon Eaddy and Danny Robinson who have had a big influence on me.
“I love my football and I want to continue to give back.”
Jenny Bindon – Football Ferns career record
77 ‘A’ International caps
86 Football Ferns appearances
New Zealand representative honours
2012 London Olympics
2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup – Germany
2008 Beijing Olympics
2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup – China
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