Nina Meollo
A Conversation with Nina Meollo
Hey Nina, we finally got this going! To start, tell us a bit about yourself—how did you first discover football, and what drew you to the game? I grew up in England where football was a big part of the culture, so it’s no surprise I got into it from a young age. I’m 20 now, and I’ve been playing since I was about 9. My parents are both Filipino, so I’ve always been surrounded by that culture too — and I try to bring those values into the way I play. It all started just playing for fun during break times at primary school, but things really kicked off when my dad noticed I had potential and encouraged me to join a local boys’ team. I was actually the only girl in the league at the time, which was a bit intimidating at first, but it taught me a lot about confidence and earning respect. That’s really when my passion for football took off — I started taking it more seriously and just fell in love with the game.
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So, how did you end up playing for such a legendary club like Ipswich Town? What has the experience been like so far, and are you enjoying your time there? I was instantly drawn to Ipswich Town Women’s FC, especially knowing it’s one of the most competitive clubs in the southeast. On top of that, getting a full scholarship to a local private college really pushed me to learn how to balance both academics and football. It wasn’t always easy, but it taught me a lot about discipline and time management.
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You're currently on loan at AFC Sudbury—aside from getting more game time, what are the main differences between the two clubs? And how are you enjoying your time there? Since joining the club in 2020, being around such experienced, high-level players has really motivated me to keep pushing myself and raising my game. The environment pushed me to grow, and I’ve definitely seen a big improvement in my confidence on the pitch thanks to this team. Playing for both Ipswich and AFC Sudbury, I noticed some clear differences in things like training intensity, game philosophy, and overall goals. But regardless of those contrasts, I was able to adapt to each team’s unique style and it really taught me how to be a more flexible and versatile player. Tell us about the experience of getting called up by the Philippines national team last season. That must have been a huge achievement, especially playing for a team that performed so well in the last World Cup! How did it feel? It was a historic moment when the Philippines Women’s team qualified for their first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2023 — something I felt incredibly proud to witness and be connected to. I still remember getting my first call-up to the ID camp in LA, California — it was such a surreal moment. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to be part of several international windows, including the Pinatar Cup in Spain, friendlies in South Korea, the Pink Ladies Cup in Turkey, an exhibition match in Manila, and most recently, a friendly in Dubai where I was honored to make my debut for the national team.
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You're in for a busy 2025 with the Asian Cup Qualifiers, ASEAN Women's Championship, and the SEA Games coming up. Do you have any specific goals or targets you’re aiming to achieve this year, both with AFC Sudbury and the national team? With a busy 2025 ahead — including the Asian Cup qualifiers and the SEA Games — I’m focused on preparing myself in every way: physically, mentally, and emotionally. My goal is to stay sharp, motivated, and ready to give my best when the time comes. Off the pitch, how do you like to unwind after a tough match or training session? Do you have any hobbies or passions outside of football that help you relax and recharge? After tough games and training sessions, I typically crave my dad's homemade rice dishes which help me to recharge and recover. However on days off i like to prioritize family time through going on short trips with them, which helps me reset and unwind. I also find time to journal as it helps me gather my thoughts, reflect and relax.
It’s fair to say that every footballer’s journey comes with its fair share of challenges. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced so far, and how did you overcome it? Challenges in this sport are normal but the most difficult one I have had to face was my injury in the recent international window. Overcoming this included having a strong support system of my family, friends and teammates but most importantly the treatment and care I received from the medical staff. The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people during tough times is often overlooked. Is there a teammate or friend in football you’re particularly close with? Inshort, who would you say is your best friend in the game? At every club I’ve played for, I’ve been lucky to build strong relationships with my teammates. Some of those connections have even grown beyond the pitch, and I’ve formed real friendships that I truly value.
To finish off, is there anything you’d like to say to the people who have supported you from the very beginning—those who have believed in you through the highs and lows of your journey? I thank God for the blessings and constantly giving me the will and strength. In addition to this I am grateful for my family giving me endless support. They are what I consider the backbone of my football journey. Also to all my club and the (PWNFT) Philippine Women's National football team coaches and staff that have trusted and believed in my potential and ability. And lastly to all my teammates, whose encouragement and motivation help drive me to do better and it would hopefully lead me to my goal.