Mackenzie Arnold’s professional accomplishments need little introduction. As the first-choice Goalkeeper for the Australia Women’s national football team, the Matildas, she exemplifies resilience and determination. (We all went along with her on last year’s World Cup journey right?). However, as a recent ambassador for Audika Hearing Clinics, Mackenzie is also bringing attention to some critical issues in the hearing space. Like the fact that 73% of Australians neglect their hearing in favour of sight .Despite its essential role in daily life. Or, the pervasive stigma around hearing loss. With 59% of respondents surveyed by Audika acknowledging its negative impact. And, an additional, 80% admitting to only having a basic understanding of hearing loss.
Just before she packed her gloves for next month’s Paris Olympics, we caught up with Mackenzie to talk Tillys, hearing tests and what it takes to overcome challenges both on and off the field.
Hearing loss: Hitting the cross bar
Reflecting on her journey, Mackenzie reveals that she had always sensed an issue with her hearing, which became more pronounced during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. “I struggled to understand people wearing masks,” she recalls, highlighting how dependent she had unknowingly become on lip-reading.
Her awareness grew, spurred by conversations with her brother Sam, who also copes with hearing loss. Eventually, Mackenzie decided to undergo a hearing test, a decision she admits she should have made sooner. “Getting my hearing tested was overwhelming at first,” she admits, but understanding the cause of her hearing loss was a pivotal moment, with the discovery transforming both Mackenzie’s personal and professional life.
“Communication feels more free-flowing,” she notes, describing a newfound clarity in conversations both on and off the field.
On-field effects and Olympic preparations
When asked about managing her hearing during matches, Mackenzie is confident that her gameplay remains unaffected. In fact, she believes it has heightened her focus on the game.
“I don’t feel like my hearing has impacted how I play, if anything I feel like I’m even more focused on my surroundings,” she says.
Instead, Mackenzie prefers to underscore the support she does rely on in in her preparation. “Spending time back home on the Gold Coast helps me reset,” she explains, emphasising the balance between personal grounding and professional commitment. And, for those keen to see the Matilda’s build on the success of the World Cup run that captivated the county Mackenzie’s goal is clear: to make a significant impact alongside her teammates, aiming to improve on their 4th place finish in the previous Olympics.
A Matilda’s thoughts on hearing misconceptions
One topic Mackenzie is keen to discuss is misconceptions about hearing loss, particularly among athletes. She emphasises the individuality of each person’s hearing loss journey and advocates for open discussions to foster understanding and support.
“Everyone’s hearing loss journey is different and should be treated individually,” she says.”But, together, we have a platform to normalise these individual differences and the more we speak openly about things the more we can bring awareness. Sometimes difficult conversations need to be had. But, if we can create a safe environment for discussion there’s so much good that come from collective minds.”
