HOSPITALITY
A partnership beyond accommodation
Novotel Melbourne Preston welcomes the Young Matildas , and editor Claire Muir finds out all about it …
Elite athletes travel extensively and in these wanderings a comfortable , homely environment is not just a desire – it is a necessity . When the vibrant Young Matildas needed somewhere to rest their heads for eight nights , their experience at The Novotel Melbourne Preston was nothing short of memorable .
Located just 10 minutes from the home of the Matildas ’ Oval , Novotel Melbourne Preston not only offered proximity but also a holistic experience tailored to the needs of these high-performance athletes . The expansive Garden Conference building was reserved just for them and the Young Matildas and their esteemed coaches made great use of it . A dedicated space gave them the privacy , serenity and facilities needed to strategise and relax in equal measure – perfect !
Team manager Louisa Bisby said that Novotel Melbourne Preston was chosen not just because of its proximity to the training ground and the match day venue – the hotel also sits less than 20 minutes from the airport and hospital , which has 24 / 7 emergency facilities . Plus there are lots of supermarkets , restaurants and cafes nearby . The hotel security was also a big bonus , for team safety .
Food and facilities For a group with a demanding physical regime , the extensive facilities here were ideal . With an on-site gym boasting state-of-the-art equipment , a sauna , massage beds and even ice baths for post-training recovery , the athletes had everything they needed to keep on top form . The basketball court and foosball table added a touch of fun too , ensuring a balanced blend of work and leisure . The head coach , Leah Blayney confirmed the hotel ’ s offering helped significantly in the preparation , both mentally and physically , for games : “ Food and rooms were excellent . This meant we had the best opportunity for a good night ’ s sleep , and we were well fuelled .”
Well-fuelled might be a bit of an understatement , though , because the Novotel Melbourne Preston provided a dietitian-crafted menu , specifically designed for the Young Matildas – they had the finest nutrition throughout their stay , for sure .
Some team members were in the midst of their VCE preparations so the hotel ’ s 100-seater auditorium was turned into a tranquil study haven , allowing these players the peace and concentration they needed .
The highlight During the Sunday night game against the Philippines , the auditorium echoed with cheers and applause as the Matildas dominated with an 8-0 score line . Sam Kerr and Caitlin Foord
both notched hat-tricks , securing the Olympic qualifier . The Novotel Melbourne Preston team joined the celebrations with one employee ’ s daughter becoming an honorary team member that night ; her signed scarf a tangible keepsake of her inclusion . Afterwards , Blayney fondly reflected the best bits of their stay : “ The hospitality of all the staff each morning and evening , speaking with the restaurant staff on a daily basis and being able to have a laugh with them and being part of the team behind the team for the week – it was great .”
For the Young Matildas , Novotel Melbourne Preston wasn ’ t just a hotel . It was a home , a training ground , a study hall and a theatre of dreams . This partnership stands as a testament to how hospitality , when done right , goes beyond mere accommodation ; it creates memories that last a lifetime . S
12 Executive PA | Winter Issue 2024