If there is one word that defines Sara Merican’s journey, it is determination. It has shaped her decisions, guided her path, and ultimately brought her back to where she always wanted to be.

The defender is currently in Sabah with the Singapore Women’s National Team for a training camp. Being back in this environment carries added significance after a period where football shared space with university, cricket, and freelance roles across several publications.

“I never stopped wanting to play for the national team again. Even in the depths of the English winter, training in the cold, the rain, the wind, it was always something I wanted. I may have sent some videos across [back to Singapore] as well,” the 28-year-old said, with a knowing laugh.